In observance of the World Day against Child Labour, the Labour Department in collaboration with the District Task Force, Dimapur, organized an awareness programme on June 12, 2025 at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Dimapur. The event, held under the theme “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: Let’s speed up efforts!”, aimed to strengthen public resolve in eradicating child labour and promoting child rights. The programme commenced with Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee, Moamenla, serving as the chairperson of the session.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Zakabo V. Rotokha, NCS, delivered a compelling keynote address during a child labour awareness programme, calling for unified efforts to safeguard children from exploitation and to build a secure future for them.
In his speech, ADC Rotokha stressed the need for immediate and concrete action to prevent child labour. “Today we will know better to prevent this outcome. We have to act and implement,” he stated, urging all stakeholders to take responsibility.
He encouraged chairmen and GBs of wards and colonies, civil society groups, and other key stakeholders to take the lead in raising awareness at the grassroots level. He emphasized that child labour is a deep-rooted issue that can only be eradicated through widespread education and mutual support within communities.
Rotokha also highlighted the importance of educating one another, particularly in remote and vulnerable areas, about the consequences of child labour and the rights of children.
Deputy Labour Commissioner, Dimapur, Visakhonuo Ndang shared a short but impactful speech highlighting the ground realities and challenges in combating child labour in the region. a collective effort to eliminate child labour, a strong call has been made to involve grassroots leaders such as Chairmen and GBs (Gaon Buras) in spreading awareness at the local level. Speaking at a recent awareness programme, a concerned official stressed that the issue of child labour continues to persist due to a lack of awareness among the public.
Highlighting the pivotal role of local leaders, she said, “Chairmen and GBs are selected because they can reach house to house. That is why you are important. Awareness must begin at the grassroots.”
She further pointed out that the community has fallen behind in tackling child labour mainly due to ignorance, adding, “It is not enough to conduct events; awareness must be spread in every ward and colony. It must be taken door to door.”
The official urged all Chairmen and GBs to actively engage in their respective areas by educating families about the laws against child labour, its consequences, and the importance of education for every child.
The programme featured a series of enlightening presentations, including a session on "Awareness on Child Labour" by Advocate Khumchuba, Penal Lawyer from the Dimapur District Legal Service Authority (DDLSA), who spoke about the legal framework and the responsibility of society in reporting and preventing such cases. In a strong appeal to eradicate child labour, community leaders emphasized the need to form a joint foundation involving Chairmen, GBs, and civil society members. They stressed that awareness must begin at the household level and that it is not too late to overcome this social issue.
The Chairman and GBs were urged to play a key role by spreading awareness in their respective wards, colonies, and among tribal communities. “Let us put this into action. All must join hands to stop child labour,” the speaker stated, calling for a united effort to ensure every child enjoys their right to education and a safe childhood.
Protection Officer (NIC) from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) Dimapur, Arenla C. Phom elaborated on the topic of "Child Rights," shedding light on the rights guaranteed under the Indian Constitution and international conventions.
Another key highlight was the discussion on the "Role of Child Helpline 1098," presented by Venuto Kapu, Counselor at Child Helpline 1098, emphasizing the critical role of the helpline in rescuing and protecting children in distress. He stated that 1098 is a 24x7 toll-free emergency service dedicated to helping children facing abuse, exploitation, child labour, trafficking, or any form of neglect. The helpline acts as a bridge between the vulnerable child and the concerned authorities, ensuring timely intervention and rehabilitation.
Venuto Kapu urged the public, especially community leaders, teachers, and parents, to be vigilant and to use the helpline without hesitation whenever a child is found in need of help. He reiterated that safeguarding children is a collective responsibility, and 1098 is a vital tool in creating a safer environment for every child.
This programme's awareness of Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, strictly prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in any occupation or process. The Act also bans adolescents (14–18 years) from working in hazardous occupations and processes. the Key points highlighted during the programme included the Definition of “Child” and “Adolescent”: Child: Person below 14 years of age.
Adolescent: A person aged 14–18 years.
Prohibition on No child is allowed to work in any occupation or process, except in family-run businesses (excluding hazardous ones) after school hours. Adolescents are prohibited from working in hazardous occupations such as brick kilns, stone quarries, welding, and tasks involving inflammable substances. Penalties (Section 14) of Employers of children may face imprisonment (minimum 6 months to 2 years) and/or fines ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. Employers of adolescents in hazardous jobs face similar punishments. Violation of other rules under this Act may lead to imprisonment up to one month and/or fines up to ₹10,000.
(Limatoshi IA, Dimapur)
