Guwahati, June 12 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday called for collective efforts to eradicate child labour and ensure that every child has access to education, safety and opportunities to grow, on the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour.

In a message shared on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of protecting children’s rights and securing their future through education and development.

“The future of our society rests in the hands of our children. On World Day Against Child Labour, let us work together to ensure that those hands hold books, not burdens, and that every child grows up with the opportunity to learn and thrive,” CM Sarma wrote.

The World Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on June 12 to raise awareness about the plight of millions of children engaged in labour and to promote efforts aimed at eliminating child exploitation across the globe.

Highlighting the role of education in shaping a better future, the Chief Minister said children should be in schools and learning environments rather than being forced into labour.

He urged society, institutions and individuals to work together to create conditions that allow every child to realise their full potential.

Child rights activists and social organisations have long maintained that access to quality education, social protection measures and stronger enforcement of labour laws are key to combating child labour.

Various government initiatives at both the national and state levels have focused on improving school enrolment, reducing dropout rates and supporting vulnerable families.

Assam has also undertaken several programmes aimed at enhancing educational access and child welfare, particularly in rural and economically weaker sections of society.

The Chief Minister’s message comes amid renewed calls from child welfare groups for greater awareness and community participation in preventing child labour and ensuring that children enjoy their fundamental rights.

Observances marking World Day Against Child Labour were held across Assam on Friday, with educational institutions, civil society organisations and government agencies reiterating their commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive environment for children.

–IANS

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