Recognitions part of World Day Against Child Labor celebrations

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Center for Social Action Yadgir and Don Bosco Makkalalaya Mysore in India have been honored by Karnataka district authorities for their outstanding efforts in championing child rights. The recognitions were part of the World Day Against Child Labor celebrations organized across the state on June 12.

The Don Bosco Center for Social Action, under Director Father Francis Shabu, has been at the forefront of safeguarding child rights and promoting education in vulnerable communities. To mark the occasion, the center organized a rally with over 1,400 participants. It was held in collaboration with government departments, spreading a powerful message against child labor and highlighting every child’s right to education.

Don Bosco Makkalalaya, headed by Father Jim Jose, also received a special award for its work with children at risk. The organization also led a rally involving more than 300 participants, joining the Labor Department to advocate for children’s rights and highlight the urgency of ending child labor.

A Salesian noted, “These recognitions underscore the deep commitment of the Salesians of Don Bosco to the cause of children, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized. At the core of these initiatives is BREADS Bangalore, the planning and development office of the Salesian Province, which continues to offer strong support, strategic direction, and resources ― empowering its partner centers to build safer, more just futures for children across Karnataka.”

Salesian missionaries living and working in India place special emphasis on rescuing and rehabilitating children engaged in child labor. There are Salesian-run programs throughout the country that have helped hundreds of thousands of vulnerable youth through the years, and this work continues today.

India has the world’s fourth largest economy but more than 22% of the country lives in poverty. About 31% of the world’s multidimensionally poor children live in India, according to a report by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative. A multidimensionally poor child is one who lacks at least one-third of 10 indicators, grouped into three dimensions of poverty: health, education and standard of living.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – India – Don Bosco Centres Honoured for Championing Child Rights

BREADS Bangalore

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India