Lokesh assures KGBV admission for child labour victim

Moved by the plight of Jessie, a young girl compelled to work in cotton fields after being denied admission in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV), Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Nara Lokesh assured her of immediate support and promised to secure her a seat in the school.

Responding to a newspaper report that brought Jessie’s struggle to light, Mr. Lokesh said on Sunday, “Dear little girl, study without worry. It is my responsibility to ensure you get a seat in the KGBV.”

The Minister informed that he had already spoken to the concerned officials, stressing that it was distressing to see “the hands that should be holding books and pens being worn out in cotton fields.” He underlined the government’s commitment to children’s education, noting that parents who send their wards to school are eligible for assistance under the ‘Talli Ki Vandanam’ scheme.

Mr. Lokesh said the government was providing students with uniforms, books, bags, shoes, socks and belts, along with nutritious mid-day meals, to ease the financial burden on families. “It is our responsibility to nurture children with knowledge and values in our schools and shape them into productive citizens,” he added.

Pointing out that schools are the safest spaces for both the security and future of children, the Minister appealed to all parents not to deprive their children of education.