Drive launched to curb child labour, begging

In a bid to combat child labour and begging in Jammu and Kashmir, authorities are conducting several drives in the Union Territory.

An official release said the district administration in north Kashmir’s Baramulla has intensified efforts to combat child labour, begging, and take steps to mitigate the plight of children living on the streets in the district.

The campaign was carried out across Baramulla, Pattan and Palhalan, resulting in the rescue of at least five children, the officials said.

The authorities called upon all citizens to remain vigilant and actively report any violations. “Collective efforts are crucial to eradicating child exploitation and ensuring a safer environment for children,” the release said.

In Jammu’s Katra, a joint ‘Anti-Beggary and Children in Street Situations’ drive was carried by the Child Helpline in collaboration with the Police and Health Departments.

During the operation, eleven children forced into beggary were rescued, officials said.

The release further said that the Social Welfare Department, in convergence with Reasi administration shall continue such drives in the entire district to rescue children and ensure they live a dignified life.