A CRITICAL STUDY ON CHILD LABOUR IN KEONJHAR DISTRICT OF ODISHA

Child labour is still a major issue in many parts of India, including Keonjhar district in Odisha. Even though there are laws like the Factories Act, 1948, and the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, child labour continues to exist in great numbers. This study looks at why this problem is still going on, focusing on reasons like poverty, insufficient education facilities, and lack of support for families. The research incorporates both primary and secondary data to provide a better understanding of the issue. The research especially highlights child labour in hotels, farms, small shops, and even in households across the district. Using both interviews and government data, the study shows how children are being forced into work at a young age, skipping school and suffering from both physical and mental pressure. The paper points out that while some efforts have been made by the government and NGOs are not sufficient. It suggests stronger and better law enforcement, better schooling opportunities, more consciousness among people, and support for poor families to help stop this problem from growing. Solving this issue in Keonjhar is not just important for the children, but for a better future of the whole world.