Centre spending Rs 602 under National Child Labour in country

Shimla, May 11 (UNI) A sum of Rs 602 crore will be spent during the tenth five year plan under the National Child Labour Yojna in 250 districts of 21 states in the country, Child Labour Advisory Board's vice chairperson Jyoti Setia said.

Talking to mediapersons here, she said the Yojna would be introduced in five districts of Kangra, Sirmour, Una, Shimla and Solan districts of Himachal Pradesh soon.

Ms Setia said 20 centres in each district would be opened with 50 children in each centre and a sum of Rs 100 would be deposited in the name of every child per month.

''The money thus deposited would be paid to the children after they complete their primary education.'' She said children in these centres would also be provided free education and school uniform, lunch and books up to fifth standard.

Terming the Yojna a success, she said a sum of Rs 1.26 crore would be spent for rehabilitating 377 children across the country.

She said children freed from child labour would kept in these centres.

Ms Setia warned of strict action against people who employ children under the Child Labour Act with three months to two years imprisonment, saying child below 14 should be employed by anyone.

As per 2001 census, Himachal has recorded 1,07,774 child labourers, while Solan alone had 33,000 child labourers, she said.

She asked every citizen to join hands with authorities to ensure better future for the children of the country.

UNI