ABSTRACT:
Across the globe, to a lesser or greater degree, visible or invisible, admittedly or otherwise, child labour exists (Sekar and Mohammad, 2001: 1). Even today it is not confined to the Third World Countries. It is more or less prevalent everywhere in the world, the difference, if any is only of degree or kind. It is saddening to note that India is the largest employer of child labour in the world and has earned a dubious distinction of exploiting this human resource. Every child has the right to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment with protection and guidance from their guardians. Whether in cities or in villages, at home or in schools, a child is always a child and deserves a childhood free from exploitation and abuse (www.unicef.org/india/child-protection-1726.htm). These children are unfortunate to forego their childhood and enter the workforce at an early age. Instead of being in school or at play, the young workers find themselves locked in drudgery. It is shocking that despite over five decades of Indian independence, child labour is still a harsh reality contrary to all proclamations in the Indian constitution (ILO, 1993: 17). It is a famous proverb that “Health is Wealth”. No one will be ready to exchange his or her health with infinite amount of wealth. The ILO definition of the worst forms of child labour includes work that is likely to jeopardise health and safety. The present paper aims to provide the plausible explanation of the impact of hazardous working conditions in lac bangles making process on children’s health. In these industries, children work in hot, humid, in contaminated places with no ventilation. Constant exposure to flame, melting lac and dust damages their lungs and vision, which is a sign of widespread poverty and illiteracy. As a result these children are being exploited by the people who achieve their selfish ends.