Lucknow: In a major push to eradicate child labour, the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has launched a comprehensive campaign with the goal of making the state completely free from child labour by 2027. The initiative, spearheaded by CM Yogi, is built on a multi-pronged approach—ranging from awareness drives and education to rehabilitation—ensuring that childhood becomes a time of opportunity rather than compulsion.
The campaign has moved beyond policy papers and into the grassroots, reaching villages and urban lanes alike. It is designed to ensure that every child has access to schooling and a nurturing environment. In connection with this, special awareness campaigns are proposed to be held on June 12—World Day Against Child Labour—to convey the message that a child’s rightful place is in school, not at work. These campaigns will be driven through coordination among multiple departments to amplify impact.
Over 10,000 Child Labourers Identified, Thousands Rehabilitated
Thanks to sustained efforts since 2017, the government has identified 10,336 cases of child labour across the state. From the fiscal year 2017–18 to 2024–25, a total of 12,426 children have been rehabilitated through educational initiatives, enabling them to return to school and restart their academic journey.
Recognising the economic pressures that often push families to force their children into labour, the government has also supported 1,089 such families through financial rehabilitation schemes. This holistic model ensures that parents are not forced to rely on their children’s income for survival.
‘Bal Shramik Vidya Yojana’ Ensures Educational Access
One of the key components of the anti-child labour strategy is the ‘Bal Shramik Vidya Yojana’, under which 2,000 working children have been enrolled in schools. The government has also provided financial assistance to ensure their education is not interrupted due to monetary constraints. This flagship scheme is not only promoting education but also gradually reshaping societal attitudes toward child labour.
Tough Stance on Bonded Labour
The Yogi government has also taken a firm stand against bonded labour. Between 2017–18 and 2024–25, 1,408 bonded labourers have been rehabilitated, with over ₹18.17 crore in financial assistance provided. These steps are helping individuals move towards lives of dignity and independence.
Labour Welfare Initiatives Expand Support
The Labour Welfare Council is running eight welfare schemes for workers in the organised sector. The government has earmarked a corpus of ₹40 crore for the effective implementation of these schemes. In the current fiscal year alone, 309 workers have received a total of ₹1.32 crore in assistance.
CM Yogi Adityanath has made it clear: “There is no investment greater than in children, and no future brighter than their childhood.” Guided by this vision, the state government continues to work relentlessly to free every child from labour and lead them toward education, safety, and dignity.
