LAHORE – In a significant step to curb child labour, the Punjab government has decided to raise the minimum employment age from 14 to 16 years. The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab Labour Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar.
As part of this initiative, a special task force will be established to ensure the implementation of this new law. Additionally, the provincial government has set a minimum wage of Rs. 37,000 for workers, with efforts to ensure that wages are transferred through bank accounts for greater transparency.
Addressing the meeting, Minister Khokhar emphasized the government’s commitment to enforcing strict measures against child labour and improving worker welfare. “We will take rigorous actions to prevent child exploitation, and by raising the employment age, we are reinforcing our efforts to protect the rights and well-being of children across Punjab,” he said.
He also noted the importance of labour unions in safeguarding workers’ rights and called for the promotion of the right to association. The government plans to extend labour laws to cover employment agencies to further strengthen protections for workers.
A complaints cell has been established within the Labour Department to address workers’ concerns and ensure swift resolution of any issues.
Under the current law, Section 3 of Article 11 of the Constitution of Pakistan, the minimum age for employment is 14 years. The new amendment aims to align the province’s policies with international child labour standards and promote a safer working environment for minors.
This initiative is expected to have a far-reaching impact on reducing child labour and ensuring fair wages for workers throughout Punjab.
