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These days, it is quite easy to overlook slavery as a problem that exists in remote places, far removed from the mainland. Those of the opinion that it is a minor hindrance, would be surprised (and perhaps, a little shocked) to know that the malaise is far more widespread and prevalent than before. In-fact, according to some reports, the number of children being forced into employment is at an all-time high, with figures reaching levels that haven’t been seen even during the dark days. With poverty levels on the rise and entire communities watching their life savings vanish under the onslaught of one depression after another, the problems keep intensifying for those seeking ways on how to stop child labor. Indeed, the taint can be found on common, everyday purchases as much as it can be put forth on high value, premium products. The severity of the problem strikes deeper when one realizes that the very produce that has been harvested at the farms is likely to have been handled by children that have yet to make it to their teenage years. A nation cannot be powered by manufacturing and the service industry alone. Ultimately, its citizens, the people that call it their home, need to put some food in their system to do what they do best. Thus, the agriculture sector is particularly important for the functioning of the economy. However, due to some ruling oversight (or lack of understanding by the powers that be), children continue to be legally permitted as labor on farms. Employed mainly on contracts, they are (more often than not) subjected to conditions that happen to be far beyond their physical and psychological capabilities. Their working environment is not too conducive to their requirements either. Long hours, exposed to the elements and with minimal protective gear or supervision, the kids often end up with injuries. Wounds are commonplace, with an average workday resulting in cuts, abrasions and bleeding. Getting a grip on numbers too is rather difficult, for, even though it is all legal and stuff, the matter is not considered to be severe enough to warrant proper tracking and measuring mechanisms. The farm owners themselves aren’t quite stoked about things either. For them, it is more a case of economics and availability. Adult labor is getting hard to come by, with many opting for other, service oriented opportunities that are less taxing. Young children on the other hand, are readily available, willing to work for lower wages in comparison and are unlikely to be involved in major disputes. Plus, they also end up assisting their families and helping them during tight financial situations. The grave part is that this practice is not limited to small size, family-farming operations. Rather, large setups of significant commercial value too are actively involved in employing kids. Thus, it is evident that mere legislation is not going to be enough in reducing this wanton exploitation. Awareness holds the key and the average daily consumer of farm produce is going to have to play an active role in putting pressure on the industry. Needless to say, nothing less than a strong, concerted push is going to suffice!
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