Despite progress in rescuing child laborers, Odisha faces challenges in reporting and prosecuting violations effectively
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha grapples with the challenge of child labor. During the six years from 2019 to 2025, authorities have successfully rescued 328 children from labor exploitation. The data indicates that 85 children were rescued in the 2019-20 period, followed by four in 2020-21 and 43 in 2021-22.
In the subsequent year, 107 child laborers were freed from various regions of the state, with an additional 44 rescued the following year. As of February 15 of the current financial year, 45 child laborers have been rescued from different districts in Odisha.
To date, 159 cases have been filed under the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act of 1986 against individuals who employ children. Furthermore, a State Action Plan aimed at eradicating child labor is being executed in collaboration with nine different departments.
According to the action plan, rescue operations are conducted with the assistance of various departments at the district level. Additionally, a training program is being organized for police officers and district labor officials to ensure the rigorous enforcement of the Child & Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act of 1986.
The official stated that the state government, alongside various stakeholders, undertakes extensive awareness campaigns aimed at eliminating child labor within the state.
