NCPCR Rescue 3,800 Children, Childhood Finally Gets a Shift Off

The National Commission for Protection of Child Right (NCPCR) has rescued more than 3,800 children from child labour during a nation wide campaign conducted between June 12 and August 31, 2026. The campaign also resulted in the registration of more than 575 FIRs linked to case identified during the drive. The special Pan India Rescue and Rehabilitation campaign was launched on June 12 with the aim of intensifying efforts to identify and rescue children involved in child labour, as well as those vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation. Coordinated Nationwide Action The NCPCR, a statutory child rights body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, coordinated the campaign with state governments, Union Territory administrations, District Magistrates, Labour Departments, police authorities and other stakeholders. Rescue operations were intensified in locations identified as hotspots for child labour and trafficking. Authorities were also encouraged to focus on the rehabilitation of rescued children and their return to education rather than treating rescue as the final step. Uttar Pradesh Records Highest Number of Rescues The campaign recorded significant participation from states across the country. Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number of rescued children at 1,480, followed by Rajasthan with 804 and Gujarat with 630. Bihar reported 183 rescues, while Andhra Pradesh reported 147. More than 575 FIRs were registered during the campaign, indicating that the operation involved not only the removal of children from exploitative situations but also criminal action in cases requiring investigation and prosecution. Rescue Followed by Rehabilitation The NCPCR also emphasised that children rescued from labour situations need continued support after their removal from workplaces. Rehabilitation, educational mainstreaming, family restoration and monitoring of follow up measures are important parts of ensuring that children do not return to exploitative conditions. The commission conducted meetings with district authorities to review rescue operations, address field level challenges and improve coordination between government departments and law enforcement agencies. Awareness and outreach activities were also conducted through social media and other communication platforms to encourage people to report child labour and highlight the importance of rehabilitation and education. A Significant Enforcement Drive The rescue of more than 3,800 children represents a substantial enforcement effort, but the figures also point to the continuing presence of child labour and exploitation. The campaign demonstrates the importance of coordinated action between child rights authorities, police, labour departments and local administrations. At the same time, the long term success of such operations will depend on whether rescued children receive sustained rehabilitation, education and protection after the initial rescue. With more than 575 FIR registered alongside the rescue, the campaign has combined enforcement with efforts aimed at protecting children and helping them return to education and mainstream life.