THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Women and Child Development Department is taking strong steps to make Kerala a child labour-free state, said Health and Women and Child Development Minister Veena George. 704 rescue drives were organized in the last financial year as part of the Saranabalyam project implemented by the Women and Child Development Department to identify and rehabilitate children involved in child labour. 56 children who were likely to be involved in child labour were identified and rehabilitated. A survey was conducted in all districts s part of this to identify child labour and child begging in 2025. 140 hot spots have been identified. The minister stated that the aim is to intensify work in such hot spots in collaboration with the Labour Department and the police and completely eliminate child labour by next year.

The highest number of hotspots were found in Ernakulam district - 30. Thiruvananthapuram -12, Kollam -11, Pathanamthitta -6, Alappuzha -10, Kottayam -7, Idukki -13, Thrissur -9, Palakkad -4, Malappuram -9, Kozhikode -4, Wayanad -8, Kannur -10, Kasaragod -7 are the other hotspots in the districts. The hotspots have been found in areas like festival places, companies, plantations etc. Hence, the activities are being carried out in such areas.

Saranabalyam scheme is being linked with Kaval Plus scheme and children are being rehabilitated by providing long-term services. The children rescued in this way are brought before the CWC. If the children are in other states, they are sent back to the CWCs in their states. The Department of Women and Child Development takes over the care and rehabilitates the children who cannot be sent back.

If you notice that child labour is taking place in any place, you can report it on 1098 or send a message to WhatsApp number 82818 99479.