Child trafficking remains one of India’s most serious human rights challenges, with thousands of children falling victim every year to forced labour, begging, sexual exploitation, and illegal adoption networks.
Despite strong laws and government initiatives, traffickers continue to exploit poverty, lack of awareness, migration, and weak enforcement systems. Experts believe India needs a stronger, technology-driven, and community-based approach to effectively combat child trafficking.
Why Child Trafficking Is a Major Concern in India
India is both a source and destination country for child trafficking. Children from poor and rural families are often lured with false promises of jobs, education, or better living conditions. Many are trafficked across states and even borders.
Once trafficked, children are forced into:
- Child labour
- Domestic servitude
- Begging rackets
- Sexual exploitation
- Illegal adoption
What Laws Exist to Stop Child Trafficking?
India has several laws to combat child trafficking, including:
- Juvenile Justice Act
- Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act
- Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act
- Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act
- Indian Penal Code (IPC) provisions
The government also runs the Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) across districts.
Key Challenges in Stopping Child Trafficking
- Poor coordination between states
- Lack of trained police personnel
- Slow rescue and rehabilitation process
- Weak border surveillance
- Fear and stigma faced by victims
How Can India Tackle Child Trafficking Better?
Experts suggest the following steps:
1. Strengthen Law Enforcement
Specialised police units must be expanded and trained to track trafficking networks using digital intelligence and data sharing.
2. Improve Border and Transport Surveillance
Railways, bus stations, and border checkpoints should use AI-based monitoring and real-time alerts.
3. Community Awareness
Village-level child protection committees can help identify missing children and suspicious recruiters.
4. Faster Rescue and Rehabilitation
Victims must receive immediate shelter, education, counselling, and legal support.
5. Use Technology
Missing child portals, facial recognition, and national databases can help trace trafficked children quickly.
The Way Forward
Ending child trafficking requires a whole-of-society approach involving government, police, NGOs, communities, and families. With better coordination, stronger enforcement, and awareness, India can significantly reduce this crime and protect its most vulnerable citizens.
