Page 1 : cover page

Page 2: statement of purpose

Page 3 : certificate
Page 4 : action plan
Page 5: starts with introduction

Statement of goals
This project is based on the hardships faced by the children who belong
to poverty stricken households inspired by the theme of LOST SPRING by
Anees Jung. The objectives for selecting this topic are as follows:-

1. Explaining child exploitation and poverty

2. Highlighting the causes of child labour
3. Describing the consequences for the same
4. Addressing the issues raised
5. Script for role play

Certificate

This is to certify that this project on CHILDHOOD LABOUR is completed

by DIYA SEHGAL, student of class XII-E. The project has been successfully
completed under the guidance of MS Ranjot Oberoi during the academic
year 2023-24
From innocence to resilience: unmasking the hidden face of childhood
poverty.

Introduction
The chapter “lost spring” is the plight of marginalised communities and
the loss of childhood innocence. The chapter explores the lives of child
labourers and their struggle to break free from their circumstances. It
sheds light on the harsh realities faced by these children, who are forced
to work instead of receiving an education and enjoying a carefree child-
hood. The chapter also highlights the social and economic inequalities
that perpetuate the cycle of poverty and exploitation. It's a thought-pro-
voking chapter that raises awareness about the need for social change
and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all children.

Child exploitation and poverty : a vicious cycle

child exploitation and poverty are two intertwined issues that have a pro-
found impact on the lives of countless children around the world.
Poverty, unfortunately, leaves many children vulnerable to various forms
of exploitation, perpetuating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.

When families are trapped in the cycle of poverty, they often struggle to
meet their basic needs, such as food, shelter, and education. This dire
situation forces children to seek ways to contribute to their family's in-
come, making them susceptible to exploitation. Whether it's child labor,
trafficking, or other forms of abuse, poverty creates an environment
where children are at a higher risk of being exploited.

Child exploitation not only robs children of their childhood but also ham-
pers their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. These chil-
dren are often denied access to education, healthcare, and other essen-
tial services, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty. The lack of educa-
tion and skills limits their opportunities for a better future, trapping them
in a cycle of poverty that can persist for generations.

Unraveling the web of child labour : causes and consequences

Poverty is the single biggest factor contributing to the children working hard in fac-
tories or shops or construction sites rather than playing and getting an education.
Families do not have enough resources and children often become the means for
more income, even if it means having to forego the privileges of childhood. Children
who come from poor families may be forced to work to support their siblings and
parents or supplement the household income when expenses are more than the
parents’ earnings. It is a huge problem especially in developing countries where
parents are unable to generate income due to the lack of employment opportunities
or education. Children can be found employed in mines or hawking in the streets to
earn money that is used to provide basic necessities such as food and clothing for
the family. Children may also be employed in factories to generate income for the
family instead of attending school. Some children have left orphans or abandoned
due to poverty. Such children do not have anyone to take care of them and end up
working to feed themselves unless taken up by orphanages. Such a practice is a
common phenomenon in poverty-stricken regions with large factories set up by in-
ternational companies.

Low aspirations by parents and children is also a major cause of

child labour because in such a situation, being employed in a local
factory, or selling grocery in the streets is the normal way of life. To
these types of children and parents, success only belongs to a cer-
tain region or group of people. They do not aspire to become pro-
fessionals in the society or great entrepreneurs. It is a mindset that
forms the very foundation of child labour

The demand for unskilled labourers is another cause of child labour.

Children are mostly unskilled and provide a cheap source of labour,
making them an attractive option for many greedy employers. Child
labour, by virtue of being cheap, increases the margin of profits for
such entrepreneurs whose only objective is profit maximization
even if it comes at the expense of ethics and good business prac-
tices. These types of employers can also force children to work un-
der unfavorable conditions through manipulation or blatant threats.

Child labour can have serious consequences and some of them in-
clude a loss of quality childhood. children are deprived of the oppor-
tunity to enjoy the amazing experiences that come with being
young. Children are often encouraged to play because it helps in
their growth and development. A child forced to work will miss many
of the good things associated with childhood.

Child labour can also lead to health complications due to under-

nourishment and poor working conditions. It is highly unlikely that
people who employ children also have the moral capacity to ensure
that they have good working conditions. Working in places such as
mines and badly conditioned factories may result in lifetime health
issues for children employed to work in these places. A child as-
signed physically demanding duties may suffer physical trauma that
may scar him or her for life.

Children that are employed do not have the time to go to school.

They spend a lot of time in their workstations as the days and years
go by. The lack of education and illiteracy makes them individuals
with limited opportunities as far as employment is concerned. Edu-
cation also prepares a person for several challenges in the society
and without it, one may turn out to lack the basic skills required to
overcome many of life’s problems. An individual who has gone to
school may be aware of how to approach certain situations in life
without resorting to brute force. An illiterate person, on the other
hand, considers force to be the only answer to nearly all of the chal-
lenges experienced.

Breaking the cycle

Addressing child labour and poverty requires a multi faceted ap-
proach involving governments , communities and the individuals.
Some solutions to prevent child labour and poverty are listed
below :

Access to Quality Education: Providing free and compulsory education for

all children can help break the cycle of poverty and reduce the need for
child labour.

Social Protection Programs: Implementing social safety nets like cash

transfers, healthcare, and nutrition programs can support families living
in poverty and reduce their reliance on child labour.

Awareness and Advocacy: Raising awareness about the negative conse-

quences of child labour and advocating for stronger laws and policies can
help create a safer and more supportive environment for children.

Economic Opportunities for Parents: Creating job opportunities, voca-

tional training, and microcredit programs for parents can empower them
to earn a decent income and provide for their families without resorting
to child labour.

Enforcement of Laws: Strengthening the enforcement of laws against

child labour and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable can act
as a deterrent and protect children from exploitation.
Script for role play

An inspiring conversation with Raju, a ragpicker

Interviewer: Hi Raju, thank you for agreeing to this interview. I'd like to
learn more about your life as a ragpicker. Can you tell me a bit about
your daily routine and what it's like for you?

Raju: Sure, no problem. So, every morning, I wake up really early and
head out to the streets. I search through garbage bins and piles of waste
to find things that can be recycled or sold. It's hard work, but it's the only
way I can help support my family.

Interviewer: I can imagine it must be challenging. How do you feel about

your job as a ragpicker? Are you happy doing this work, or do you have
other aspirations?

Raju: Well, to be honest, I'm not happy doing this job. I want to study and
be like other children. I dream of becoming a teacher one day. But right
now, my family's financial situation doesn't allow me to go to school. So, I
have to work as a ragpicker to help them make ends meet.

Interviewer: That's understandable, Raju. It's great that you have dreams
and aspirations for the future. What do you think would make you happy
and fulfilled in life?

Raju: Education is really important to me. I believe that with education, I

can have better opportunities and a brighter future. It would make me
happy to have the chance to study, learn new things, and pursue my
dreams. I also hope that one day, I can help other children in similar situ-
ations.

Interviewer: Your determination and desire to learn are inspiring, Raju. Is

there anything you want people to understand about your life and the
lives of other children in poverty?

Raju: Yes, definitely. I want people to know that poverty doesn't define
us. We have dreams, talents, and potential just like any other child. We
deserve equal opportunities and support to break free from the cycle of
poverty. It's important to see beyond our circumstances and help us cre-
ate a better future for ourselves.

Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Raju. Your perspective
is valuable, and I appreciate your honesty. Is there anything else you'd
like to add?

Raju: I just want to say that I hope more people will understand the chal-
lenges we face and work towards creating a more inclusive and equal so-
ciety. Every child deserves a chance to learn, grow, and pursue their
dreams. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share my story.

Interviewer: thank you

Students reflection

This topic has been chosen for the project as when we delve deeper into
this topic , its important to acknowledge the underlying factors that con-
tribute to child exploitation and labour. Its truly disheartening to think
about the harsh realities that so many children around the world face.

As we reflect on this issue, it becomes evident that we must work to-

wards finding effective solutions to prevent child labour and protect the
rights off children.
Bibliography

1. www.bettercarenetwork.com
2. www.schoolsafety.gov
3. www.unicef.org
4. www.brighterfutureforchildren.com