Project Rural Workers Development Society (RWDS)

Ajay* lives in a remote village in Ramanathapuram district, where transport is available for children only if they are heading to work. For those who wish to study beyond primary school, the nearest high school is 16 kilometres away, a distance covered either on foot or at a cost higher than what his parents earn in a day.

His parents somehow managed the travel expense until Grade 9. But survival came first. Soon, Ajay began fishing to support the family’s livelihood. “If he works, he can save money for the future. What is the benefit of studying?” they asked when the project team visited their home after noticing his absence from school. The team understood that this was not neglect, but a decision born out of financial stress and limited awareness. They counselled the family gently, speaking about the importance of education and the mental, physical and legal consequences of child labor. Months passed but nothing changed. Ajay continued to fish.

For seven long months, the team persisted. When counselling alone did not help, they sought support from Childline. Still, the family resisted. Finally, the team approached the district Child Welfare Police Officer and mobilised collective action involving Panchayat leaders, the Children’s Collective and community members. Slowly, perspectives began to shift. Ajay was re enrolled in Grade 9, with a special meeting arranged with the school principal. To ensure he would never have to choose work over school again, the principal extended the school bus service to his village, waived the transport fee, and welcomed Ajay into the school with warmth, inclusivity, and encouragement.

Today, Ajay attends school regularly. He has joined CRY’s Children’s Collective and is rediscovering a childhood that had been paused too soon, yet is never too late to reclaim.

*Name changed to protect child’s identity