The Gujarat government has embarked on an ambitious project to put an end to child labour in the state. Developed by the Gandhi Labour Institute, Ahmedabad, the project involves a Rs 27-crore phased action plan which will cover about 5,000 children engaged in hazardous work.

The plan's focus areas will primarily involve the development of the children's vocational skills, including a study programme which will prepare them for the standard vii examinations.

The children will first be segregated in groups of 100 each and accomodated in dormitories or hostels. They will also be given a stipend of Rs 30 each for 20 days.To popularise the scheme, the state government is aiming to rope in the labour department, industries and several NGOs.