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June 12th is World Anti-Child Labour Day.  One day in the calendar year that is set aside to tackle the issue of Child Labour. Numerous events are held across the country and the world to raise awareness. Statistics scream from all media outlets, and  campaigns are launched. Eradication promises are made.

But, for millions of children, it is business as usual. They continue to work in hazardous conditions. Be it handling poisonous chemicals or inhaling toxic fumes. They continue to be employed in industries ranging from textiles and embroidery to stone quarries and fire crackers. Youcan find them as domestic help across the country, at tea shops, restaurants, and on the streets. Toiling hard, under-fed, under-paid, they are forced to work to support their families.

There have been some success stories, but we have a long way to go before eradicating this evil from our society and we cannot rest on our laurels.

A more comprehensive approach is necessary to deal with the issue on an ongoing basis. Poverty cannot be blamed time and again. Why cannot our public education system be developed and affordable? Why does social discrimination still exist in our society?

Solutions to the problem depends on the questions we pose. We need to change our perspective about the issue to deal with it effectively.

A day is a lifetime for the children.