| Abstract: | Child labour continues to pose a significant challenge to inclusive development in India, particularly within informal economic sectors. Maharashtra, despite being one of the most industrially advanced states, exhibits persistent instances of child labour in the unorganized hotel and dhaba industry. This paper examines the socio-economic determinants, working conditions, legal framework, and policy implementation gaps related to child labour in Maharashtra’s informal hospitality sector. The study is based on secondary data sources including government reports, census publications, labour department records, and scholarly literature. The analysis reveals that poverty, rural distress, seasonal migration, educational exclusion, and weak regulatory enforcement are key contributors. The findings suggest that elimination of child labour requires integrated socio-economic reforms, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, and community-based interventions. The paper concludes by proposing policy recommendations aligned with sustainable development objectives. |
| Keywords: | Child Labour, Unorganized Sector, Maharashtra, Informal Economy, Hospitality Industry, Poverty, Migration, Sustainable Development. |
