New Delhi: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has rescued more than 3,800 children from child labour during a nationwide rescue and rehabilitation campaign conducted between June 12 and August 31, 2026. More than 575 FIRs were also registered during the campaign.
The special “Pan-India Rescue and Rehabilitation” Campaign was launched by the NCPCR to intensify action against child labour and identify children vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation. The statutory body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development worked with state and Union Territory administrations, district authorities, labour departments, police and other stakeholders during the campaign.
Targeted Operations Conducted at Child Labour Hotspots
As part of the campaign, the NCPCR asked authorities to conduct intensified and targeted rescue operations in locations identified as child labour and trafficking hotspots.
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The campaign focused on:
- Identifying and rescuing children engaged in child labour.
- Detecting children vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.
- Registering FIRs against cases requiring criminal action.
- Ensuring rehabilitation and restoration of rescued children.
- Facilitating their return to education and mainstreaming.
- Monitoring compensation and other follow-up measures.
The Commission also asked States and UTs to regularly share data on rescue operations and subsequent rehabilitation measures.
NCPCR Monitored Rescue Operations With District Authorities
The NCPCR held meetings with district administrations to monitor the campaign and address challenges encountered during rescue operations.
The meetings focused on strengthening coordination between departments and agencies, resolving operational bottlenecks and ensuring timely submission of Action Taken Reports (ATRs).
The Commission also sought to ensure that rescue efforts were followed by appropriate rehabilitation rather than ending with the removal of children from workplaces.
Awareness Drive Accompanied Rescue Efforts
Alongside field operations, the NCPCR conducted awareness and outreach activities through social media and other communication platforms.
The campaign highlighted the need to report instances of child labour and stressed the importance of rehabilitation and educational mainstreaming after children are rescued.
Over 3,800 Children Rescued During Campaign
According to the NCPCR, sustained monitoring and coordination with state authorities resulted in the rescue of over 3,800 children during the campaign.
More than 575 FIRs were registered in connection with cases identified during the drive.
The campaign brought together child protection authorities, district administrations, labour officials and police agencies in a coordinated effort aimed at tackling child labour and related risks of trafficking and exploitation.
