Statement by India at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group 27^th Session (1-12 May 2017) on Child Labour: 3^rd UPR of India. [Geneva, 4 May 2017]

Let me highlight on the issue of child labour raised by Members. The issue of child labour has been addressed through a multi-pronged strategy with emphasis on legislative measures, development programmes and appropriate policies. India is committed to eradicate child labour in the country. We believe that elimination of child labour is crucial for the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

2. In pursuance of this goal to enhance the ambit of the existing Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, we have enacted the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act 2016. This act prohibits employment of children, below 14 years of age in any occupation or process as compared to earlier prohibition in 18 occupations and 65 processes, with an exception made permitting a child to help his family enterprise after school hours or during vacations. Further, age of the child for prohibition of employment is linked to age under the right of children to free and compulsory education under the Right to Education Act to ensure every child receives elementary education mandatorily as it is a fundamental right. With the introduction of a new definition of adolescence, covering the age group of 14-18 years, employment of adolescents is prohibited in hazardous occupations and processes. Further, offence of employing any child or adolescent in contravention of this Act by any employer has been made cognizable.

Mr. Chair,

3. Through these comprehensive amendments in addition to the existing legislations, India has created a robust legal frame work, making the provisions of our national legislation compatible with the relevant Articles of ILO Convention 138 and 182.

4. Also, in order to comply with the tripartite consultation process, Government initiated consultations with workers and employees to set in motion the process and the modalities for possible ratification of ILO Conventions 138 and 182. So, we are working on the modalities to ratify the ILO Conventions.

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