Bihar, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh Lead in Eliminating Child Labour in Agarbatti Manufacturing

The prevalence of child labour in India's incense manufacturing industry, a long-standing concern, is showing a significant decline, particularly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar. A recent study titled Fragrance of Agarbatti: A Study on the Extent of Child Labour in India's Incense Stick Manufacturing Industry, conducted by India Child Protection (ICP), indicates that the sector is moving towards complete freedom from child labour in these states.

According to the study, 82 percent of respondents reported not witnessing any instances of child labour, while only 8 percent had observed child labour in incense stick manufacturing units. ICP is a partner of Just Rights for Children (JRC), a network of over 200 NGOs operating across 416 districts to promote child protection and rights.

India Child Protection collaborated with several JRC partners to conduct the research, gathering data from organizations including Anekal Rehabilitation Education and Development Centre, Margdarshi Society, Spandana Association, Prayas JAC Society, Janakalyan Welfare Society, Rural Education and Liberty, SAMANTHA Society for Rural Education, and the Society for Education and Environment Development.

Expressing optimism over these findings, Ravi Kant, National Convenor of Just Rights for Children, remarked, "This is an extremely encouraging development for the country and a strong indication that India is on the right path to eradicating child labour. The steady decline in child labour across these states highlights the effectiveness of recent policy interventions and the commitment of both state and central governments to addressing this issue. However, sustained efforts from all stakeholders-including government agencies, civil society organizations, and industry leaders-are essential to build on this progress and achieve a child labour-free India."

To assess the extent of child labour in the sector, the study focused on specific regions known for incense manufacturing, including Chikkaballapur and Kolar districts in Karnataka, Gaya in Bihar, and Alluri Seetha Rama Raju, Anakapalli, Chittoor, and Sri Satya Sai districts in Andhra Pradesh. The data was collected through site visits, consultations with local stakeholders, engagement with community leaders, and direct feedback from residents.

Despite the overall positive trend, regional variations were observed. In Bihar, an overwhelming 96 percent of respondents reported not witnessing child labour in the incense stick industry. In Karnataka, 61 percent of respondents stated they had not observed child labour in their local factories, while in Andhra Pradesh, 77 percent of respondents indicated that child labour was not present in nearby incense manufacturing units.

Although progress has been made, researchers have cautioned about the potential health risks associated with the industry. Exposure to dust, toxic chemicals, and heavy metals found in incense sticks has been linked to respiratory issues, neurological effects, cardiovascular problems, cognitive dysfunction, and even long-term health risks such as cancer.

The study underscores the importance of continued vigilance and collective action to ensure that child labour is completely eradicated from this sector while also addressing occupational health concerns.