SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF CHILD- LABOUR IN AGRICULTURE

Abstract

This study examines the socioeconomic conditions, demographic factors, and key drivers of child labor in the agricultural sector of Kamber-Shahdadkot District (Warah and Nasirabad talukas) in rural Pakistan. High adult unemployment, overpopulation, low-income large families, parental illiteracy, and lack of education were identified as major contributors to child labor. Data was collected from 100 child laborers (aged 5-14) and their parents/guardians through structured interviews. Findings reveal that 86% of child laborers (mostly aged 10-14) were illiterate, with only 12% having primary education. A staggering 92% lacked technical agricultural training, and 78% worked due to financial constraints preventing school attendance. Families averaged 8.7 members, with 22.5% living in inadequate, muddy homes and lacking basic amenities. Low income hindered socioeconomic mobility, perpetuating child labor. To combat this issue, the study recommends expanding alternative employment opportunities for adults, strengthening government literacy programs, implementing policies to boost rural  agro-based industries, enforcing child labor laws and targeting hazardous work conditions, and providing economic incentives to families to offset lost income when children attend school. A multi-stakeholder approach is essential to eliminate child labor and improve socioeconomic conditions in the region.