Childhood is meant to be a time of learning, playing, and growing, but for millions of children across the world, this stage is overshadowed by the harsh reality of labour. Child labour is the practice of engaging children in work that deprives them of their education, health, and happiness. It is not just a violation of human rights but also a stain on the progress of society.

One of the major causes of child labour is poverty. Families struggling to survive often push their children into earning instead of learning. Lack of access to quality education, unemployment of parents, and exploitation by employers also add to the problem. Children are forced to work in factories, farms, shops, and even hazardous industries, where they are exposed to unsafe conditions and long working hours.

The consequences of child labour are severe. It robs children of their innocence, keeps them away from education, and affects their physical and mental growth. These children grow up without proper skills, thus remaining trapped in the cycle of poverty. Moreover, the exploitation of child workers weakens the nation’s workforce and hampers overall development.

To eradicate child labour, strict laws must be implemented along with strong awareness campaigns. Providing free and compulsory education, financial support to poor families, and skill training for parents can help reduce the dependency on child labour. Society must also take responsibility by refusing to buy products made by exploiting children.

In conclusion, child labour is a grave injustice that steals the future of children and the nation alike. Every child deserves education, care, and a happy childhood. By uniting against this evil, we can build a society where children are nurtured, not exploited.