Author(s): Dr. Nisha Shukla

Abstract:
India leads the world in the number of child labourers. Lack of basic amenities and education is the primary reason for children to work. This study aims at identifying the impact of age, gender, and circumstances on substance addiction among child labourers in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The results showed a considerable difference between the number of males and female addicts. Furthermore, smoking and chewing pan and pan masala was found to be the primary form of addiction in males and females, respectively. For males, influence of friends was the key cause of addiction while for females, it was the family environment. There are numerous regulations to prevent child labour however, an ever-increasing number of child labourers is evidence that regulations alone cannot eradicate this practice. A tailored approach based on sex, age, and circumstances surrounding the child labourers is needed.