NGOs in Chittoor Rescue 40 Children from Child Labour
On June 12, 2025, the World Day Against Child Labour was marked with a significant announcement in Chittoor district. Rural Education and Liberty (REAL), a local NGO, revealed that together with Just Rights for Children (JRC), they had rescued 40 children from exploitative labour practices within the past year.
The rescue and awareness campaign highlights ongoing efforts by community organizations to combat the deeply rooted issue of child labour across the region.
Calls for Stronger Government Action and Rehabilitation
S. Rama Rao, the director of REAL, emphasized the urgent need for enhanced government intervention. He urged both Central and State administrations to allocate proper funding and implement free education policies extending to age 18. Such measures, he stressed, are crucial deterrents against child labour.
Additionally, Rao called for establishing a dedicated rehabilitation fund to support rescued children, ensuring they receive the care and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives. According to him, strict enforcement of laws, victim rehabilitation, and a zero-tolerance approach remain key to making lasting progress.
India’s Commitment and Nationwide Efforts by JRC
Ravi Kant, convenor of JRC, underscored India’s commitment to International Labour Organisation Convention 182, which targets the elimination of the worst forms of child labour. Over the past two years, JRC has been instrumental in rescuing more than 85,000 children nationally and initiating legal action in over 54,000 cases.
Locally in Chittoor, the combined efforts of REAL and JRC have involved extensive awareness campaigns, mobilizing community support to eradicate child labour and champion children's rights to education and dignity.
Community Engagement Drives Hope for Change
The events observed during the World Day Against Child Labour in Chittoor demonstrate growing grassroots momentum. Commitments from families and communities to withdraw children from labour and ensure their schooling signal a positive step forward.
As NGOs continue their rescue work and advocacy, the hope is that strengthened partnerships with government bodies will create sustainable safety nets for vulnerable children and dismantle the systemic causes of child exploitation.
By raising awareness and insisting on policy reforms, Chittoor is setting an example in the fight to end child labour, safeguarding children's futures one rescue at a time.
