Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh is pushing for a state-wide commitment to universal education on the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour. The Chief Minister urged the public to ensure children remain in classrooms rather than entering the workforce, highlighting the urgent need to protect childhood development.
Addressing the event's theme, Khemchand Singh stated, "It reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect childhood and guarantee every child access to quality education and opportunities." His administration emphasizes that every child deserves the chance to learn, play, and thrive.
Research identifies child labour in Manipur as a persistent issue largely fueled by poverty, illiteracy, and migration. Children between the ages of 14 and 18 are frequently employed in informal sectors including domestic service, small repair shops, restaurants, and street vending. These cases are most prevalent in the Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Senapati, and Thoubal districts.
The state enforces the Child and Adolescent Labour Prohibition and Regulation Act to combat this trend. The law bans the employment of anyone under 14, while restricting adolescents aged 14 to 18 from working in hazardous roles. Violations carry severe consequences, including mandatory jail time of at least three months and significant financial penalties.
To enforce these protections, the Social Welfare Department works alongside the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights to monitor and rescue exploited youth. Officials utilize the national PENCIL Portal to track complaints, while Child Welfare Committees provide rehabilitation and skill development for those rescued from labour environments.
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