Child Labour and Forced Labour Policy

1. Purpose

This policy demonstrates UGC Supply Chain Solutions Pvt. Ltd.’s firm commitment to the elimination of child labour and forced labour in all our operations and supply chains. We uphold the highest standards of ethical employment practices and respect for human rights.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers and business partners engaged with UGC, regardless of geographic location.

3. Policy Statement

UGC strictly prohibits the use of child labour and forced labour in any form. We commit to:

Ensuring all employment is voluntary and free from coercion, threat or penalty.

Not employing any person below the legal minimum working age or the minimum age required for employment by applicable law.

Providing safe, fair and ethical working conditions for all workers.

Complying fully with all local and international labour laws relevant to child labour and forced labour.

Raising awareness within our organization and with suppliers about the risks and consequences of child and forced labour.

4. Definitions

• Child Labour: Employment of persons below the legal working age or in conditions harmful to their education, health or development.
• Forced Labour: Work or service exacted under threat or coercion without the individual’s free consent.

5. Implementation Steps

5.1 Recruitment and Employment

• Establish clear hiring procedures that verify the age of all prospective employees through valid documentation.
• Ensure employment contracts clearly state that work is voluntary and workers have the right to terminate employment without penalty.

5.2 Supplier Management and Due Diligence

• Require suppliers and contractors to formally commit to no child labour and no forced labour in their operations.
• Conduct risk assessments and audits of suppliers, especially those in high-risk regions or sectors, to verify compliance.
• Include clauses prohibiting child labour and forced labour in all supplier contracts and procurement agreements.

5.3 Training and Awareness

• Provide regular training sessions for employees, management and suppliers on recognizing, preventing and reporting child and forced labour issues.
• Communicate the policy clearly to all stakeholders and make it publicly available.

5.4 Monitoring and Reporting

• Implement confidential grievance mechanisms allowing employees and external stakeholders to report violations safely and without fear of retaliation.
• Regularly monitor and audit both internal operations and suppliers for compliance with this policy.
• Investigate any reported or suspected incidents promptly and take corrective actions where necessary.

5.5 Remediation and Continuous Improvement

• Engage with affected individuals and communities to remediate any identified child labour or forced labour issues in a responsible and sustainable manner.
• Review and update the policy and related processes regularly to enhance effectiveness and incorporate best practices.

6. Responsibilities

• Management is responsible for enforcing this policy and ensuring compliance across all operations.
• Human Resources will oversee recruitment processes to prevent child and forced labour.
• Unit Heads will ensure suppliers comply with this policy and undertake necessary due diligence.
• Employees are encouraged to report any concerns or breaches of this policy through designated channels.

7. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect legal changes and improvements in our labour practices.