SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION AND GENDER DISPARITIES OF CHILD LABOUR IN HARYANA'S NCR DISTRICTS

Abstract

This paper looks into the spatial pattern, occupational pattern and gender inequality of child labour in the districts of Haryana with reference to NCR areas. Using the 2021 Census and other recent research findings, the study discusses the geographical distribution of child labour prevalence, noting the role of urbanization, industrialization and farming system. It highlights areas of high, moderate, low and very low child labour participation and indicates how rural areas are major contributors in the determination of child labour patterns. It is even more noteworthy that the districts like Jind, Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri have higher rates of child labour, mainly in primary sector activities whereas the districts which are more urbanized, like Gurugram and Faridabad have lower rates of child labour with more participation in the tertiary sectors. The paper also examines the gender aspect of child labour whereby child labour amongst females is more concentrated in the rural areas particularly in primary activities whereas male child labour is more concentrated in primary, secondary and tertiary activities. Moreover, the study also examines the differences between primary and marginal child labour and concludes that marginal child labour is still a major issue, especially in the areas which are rapidly industrializing. This paper will highlight what policy interventions are required to alleviate child labour in Haryana, and these are improving education, economic opportunities, and toughening of law enforcement.