Challenges of dealing with migrant brick kiln workers.

Abstract

Brick kilns in rural India exemplify extreme poverty and exploitation, as seasonal migrant labourers work long hours for minimal pay, living in cramped, poorly ventilated dwellings. Children often begin working at a young age, with irregular or no schooling. Access to healthcare is severely limited, with maternal care, immunisation, and disease screening being sporadic and follow-up rare. Poor nutrition and widespread substance use further compromise health. Lacking identification or permanent addresses, these families are excluded from social welfare schemes. This situation reflects a profound human rights crisis, requiring enforcement of labour laws, provision of health and nutrition services, child welfare support, and measures to protect dignity and well-being.