New Insights on Girl‑Child Labour in India’s Textile Sector

New findings from a thorough study commissioned by NHRC and conducted by IPE Hyderabad explore the extent of girl-child labour in textile and garment clusters across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, India.Key Highlights:

• Despite legal frameworks like India’s Child & Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act and international mandates, the study confirms that girl-child labour continues in textile hotspots—particularly in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka—often fueled by poverty, informal work, and limited access to education nhrc.nic.in+1nhrc.nic.in+1.
• The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation, with rural Tamil Nadu experiencing approximately a 280% increase in child labour; children (many girls) working 14–16 hours daily under harsh conditions nhrc.nic.in.
• Looming challenges arise from factory act relaxations during lockdowns, disrupted school meal programs, and the depletion of protective government oversight nhrc.nic.in.
• Policy and enforcement gaps persist, despite progressive laws and standard operating procedures in both states nhrc.nic.in.

Suggested Actions:

1. Strengthen implementation – bridging the gap between legislation and ground-level enforcement.
2. Increase social safety nets – ensure mid-day meals and community education, especially during crises.
3. Support education continuity – to reduce push factors contributing to child labour.
4. Enhance industry accountability – particularly in garment supply chains, emphasizing transparency and audits.

Why It Matters:
Eliminating girl-child labour from textile sectors is pivotal for achieving SDG Target 8.7 by 2025 and advancing gender equality. It’s also about safeguarding children’s rights, dignity, and potential.

Call to Action:
As professionals in HR, compliance, education, advocacy, and supply chains, we each play a role. Let’s invest in stronger monitoring, inclusive policies, and ethical practices to safeguard vulnerable children today.