Sobre 12th June 2026, World Day Against Child Labour was observed in six field areas: Merryview Tea Estate, Atal Tea Estate, Fulbari Tea Estate, Thanjhora Tea Estate, Sonachandi Tea Estate, and Maruti Tea Estate. The programme witnessed the active participation of children, youth, parents, women, and other community members, with the objective of raising awareness about child labour and promoting children’s rights.
Prior to the programme, children and youth prepared theme-based posters and placards highlighting the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour theme, “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults.“ These creative posters carried messages promoting children’s right to education, protection, and freedom from child labour. The posters and placards were proudly displayed throughout the awareness rallies, attracting the attention of local residents and effectively spreading awareness within the community.
As part of the observance, awareness rallies were organized in all six tea estates. Participants marched through the villages carrying the posters and placards while raising slogans against child labour and encouraging community members to ensure that every child has access to education and a safe childhood.
Following the rallies, awareness sessions were conducted in several field areas. The sessions focused on the causes and consequences of child labour, child rights, the importance of education, relevant child protection laws, and the role of parents, community members, and local stakeholders in preventing child labour. Interactive discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and experience sharing helped participants better understand the issue and encouraged them to report and prevent cases of child labour.
The observance successfully strengthened community awareness and reinforced the collective commitment of children, youth, and community members to protect children from exploitation and work together to create a child-friendly environment where every child can learn, grow, and live with dignity.
Autor: Sr. Biviyana Lepcha, CJ
