In a concerted effort to combat child labour, authorities in Mysuru have rescued 117 child and adolescent workers over the past three years. The operations involved 1,483 raids conducted by the district administration and labour department, highlighting the ongoing challenge of child exploitation in the region.
Rescue Operations and Statistics
According to official data, the rescue efforts spanned from 2023-24 to 2025-26. In the current fiscal year 2025-26 alone, 37 child and adolescent workers were rescued. The raids targeted various establishments, including factories, workshops, hotels, and agricultural units, where minors were found working under hazardous conditions.
Government Initiatives
The Mysuru district administration has been proactive in implementing the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act. Special task forces were formed to conduct surprise inspections, and awareness campaigns were launched in rural areas to educate parents about the dangers of child labour.
Officials stated that rescued children were provided with immediate medical care and counselling. They were subsequently enrolled in rehabilitation programmes, including bridge schools and vocational training centres, to ensure their reintegration into mainstream education and skill development.
Challenges and Future Plans
Despite these efforts, officials acknowledge that child labour remains a persistent issue due to poverty, lack of education, and demand for cheap labour. The district plans to intensify surveillance and involve local communities in reporting cases. Strict action is being taken against employers who violate child labour laws, with fines and imprisonment as deterrents.
The Mysuru Labour Department has urged citizens to report any instances of child labour through helplines and local authorities. The long-term goal is to create a child-friendly environment where every child has access to education and a safe childhood.
