<b> Lok Sabha</b>           

The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 does not differentiate between the Adult bondage and child bondage.  The Bonded Labourers are identified, released and rehabilitated by the State Governments and the Central Government is providing Grant-in-aid for rehabilitation of Bonded Labouerers at the rate of Rs. 20,000/- per bonded labour which is shared by the Central and State government concerned on 50:50 basis. A Statement showing the total number of Bonded Labourers, identified, released, rehabilitated, and Central assistance provided, state-wise, till date is given below:

Number of bonded labourers identified, released and rehabilitated under the Centrally Sponsored Plan Scheme up to 31.10.2007

*   19962 Bonded Labourers are not available for rehabilitation either they have died or left the place without leaving their addresses.

* Rehabilitation grants equal to Rs. 6891.06 lakhs has also been provided by the State Governments as State’s share for rehabilitation of bonded labour.

*   In the case of Arunachal Pradesh 100% Central assistance amounting to Rs. 568.48 lakhs bas been provided by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. In the case of North Eastern regions and Sikkim, 100% Central grants (without matching States share) are provided for rehabilitation of bonded labour.

This information was given  by the Minister of  State for  Labour and Employment Shri Oscar Fernandes (Independent Charge) in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

VBA/BS