Education Vs. Exploitation: Assessing the Impact of Government Policies on Child Labor Abolition in India

Abstract

Child labor remains a pressing socio-economic issue in India despite numerous legislative measures and policy interventions aimed at its abolition. This study critically examines the impact of government policies on child labor reduction, focusing on the interplay between educational initiatives and exploitative labor practices. The research explores the effectiveness of key legislative frameworks such as the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, and various national schemes like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and Mid-Day Meal Program in curbing child labor. By analyzing statistical trends, policy implementation gaps, and socio-economic factors influencing child labor, this study highlights the successes and limitations of existing measures. The findings suggest that while policy reforms have led to a decline in child labor, persistent economic disparities, inadequate enforcement, and social norms continue to hinder complete eradication. The research underscores the need for a more integrated approach that strengthens educational access, enhances livelihood opportunities for vulnerable families, and ensures strict policy enforcement to eliminate child labor effectively. This study contributes to the broader discourse on child rights and social justice, advocating for sustainable strategies to balance education and labor abolition in India.