The Bonded Labour System has been abolished by law throughout the country with effect from 25^th October, 1975 under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Ordinance which was replaced by the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976.  As and when existence of bonded labour is detected, such persons are identified for rehabilitation.  The responsibility for rehabilitating the freed bonded labourers lies with the respective State Governments. In order to assist the State Governments in the task of rehabilitation of identified and released bonded labourers, a Centrally Sponsored Plan Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labour is in operation since May, 1978. Under the scheme, rehabilitation assistance @ Rs. 20,000/- per bonded labour is provided which is equally shared by the Central and State Government. 

  According to the reports received from the State Governments, the number of bonded labourers identified, released and rehabilitated under the Centrally Sponsored Plan Scheme as on 31.03.2011 is as under: (District-wise information is not maintained at central level)

                 The Union Labour & Employment Minister Shri Mallikarjun Kharge gave this information in reply  to a written question the in  Rajya Sabha today.

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