More than 200 per cent increase in marginal child workers: ILO

New Delhi, June 12 (UNI) An ILO study released here today shows more than 200 per cent increase in the number of marginal child workers, but a 36 per cent decline in main child workers as compared to the data in the 1991 census.

The study, in a book form, was launched on the occassion of the 'World Day Against Child Labour' and analyses the child labour situation in India. It gives State and district wise trends.

The book release was followed by a round table discussion on 'Agriculture without child labour harvest for the future.' Worldwide, agriculture sector employs nearly 70 per cent of child labour. More than 132 million girls and boys, aged 5 to 14 years old, work in crop production, raising livestock, helping supply some of the food and drinks that are consumed and the fibres and raw materials used for manufacturing other products.

Releasing the book, Prime Minister's Economic Avisory Council Member G K Chadha stressed the need to invest in education and skill development of young people to bring to use India's huge youth population. He felt that the continuing malady of child labour was harmful for the nation and called for action to eliminating it.

ILO Director Ms Leyla Tegmo Reddy said the elimination of child labour requires a comprehensive set of strategies, which provides parents and families with a viable choice to keep their children away from labour.

Member of the National Commission for Enterprises in the Unorgansied Sector Ravi Srivastava said both the census and NSSO figures show a decline of child labour in agriculture which can be attributed to greater awareness, promotional policies and increased access to quality education.

UNI