GIRL CHILD LABOUR IN INDIA AND THE WELFARESTATE : DISCREPANCY BETWEEN POLICYPROMISES AND GROUND REALITY

The present research topic is related to the conditions of children and girls in the context of welfare. Welfare, in general, refers to the well-being, growth, and development of individuals in society. However, when we observe the weaker and vulnerable sections of society, especially children and girls, it becomes evident that they require special attention and protection. These groups are considered eligible for welfare measures because they are often deprived of basic necessities and opportunities. In many cases, children are seen working in various sectors instead of attending school. Due to poor economic conditions, they are forced into labor, which affects their physical, mental, and educational development. Although there are laws and policies implemented by the government for child protection and welfare, their actual implementation remains weak. Various schemes have been introduced for the protection and development of children, but in reality, many children are still deprived of their benefits. In rural areas, children often spend long hours working in fields or helping their families, while in urban areas, they are found working in industries, hotels, or as domestic workers. They are engaged in hazardous conditions, which negatively impact their health and overall development. Many children migrate along with their families in search of livelihood, leading to disruption in their education and social life. The situation of girls is even more concerning. They are often subjected to gender discrimination, lack of education, early marriage, and exploitation. In slum areas, girls are engaged in domestic work or small-scale industries, where they receive low wages and face unsafe working conditions. These factors lead to severe consequences on their physical and mental health. Despite the presence of constitutional provisions and welfare schemes, the gap between policy and practice is clearly visible. The benefits of these schemes do not reach the targeted groups effectively due to lack of awareness, poor implementation, and administrative challenges. Therefore, this research focuses on understanding the real conditions of children and girls, analyzing the effectiveness of welfare policies, and identifying the gaps between policy and practice. The study aims to suggest measures for improving the implementation of welfare schemes and ensuring better protection and development of children. In rural, urban, and migrant contexts, a comparative analysis of these three levels is necessary to understand the various problems in the lives of children and girls. Therefore, this study holds significant importance. This study is useful from both theoretical and practical perspectives and is extremely necessary for society. It is essential to implement measures that ensure children's rights, their protection, and their right to education in real terms. Through this study, it is expected that useful measures will be suggested for effective policy-making and better implementation of welfare schemes.