Why in News? 

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) recently conducted a National Consultation on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986. 

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 

• The POCSO Act, enacted in 2012, is India’s first comprehensive legislation specifically addressing the sexual abuse of children and is overseen by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. 
• Its primary aim is to safeguard children from sexual assault, harassment, and exploitation through pornography, while also providing for the establishment of Special Courts to handle related cases. 
• In 2019, the Act was amended to enhance penalties for certain offences, thereby deterring offenders and ensuring a respectful and safe environment for children’s growth. 

Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 

• The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, was amended in 2016 and renamed as the Child & Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986. 
•  It strictly prohibits the employment of children under 14 years of age in any occupation or process.