Kolkata, 12 July 2023: The Salesian Provincial Conference of South Asia organized a two-day Don Bosco Migrants Consultation and National Workshop on “Decent Work & Living Conditions for Internal Migrants in India.” The event, hosted by Nitika Don Bosco Kolkata, aimed to provide a platform for knowledge exchange and empowerment of the Don Bosco For Migrants Team while addressing the issues faced by unorganized workers.
The workshop, held on the 11th and 12th of July, brought together 40 participants from various regions. Among them were Fr. Blasius Tete SDB, the Province Coordinator of YaR and Migrant Helpdesk, Fr. Angel Kuldeep SDB, the Don Bosco 4 Migrants project manager, and Miss Amongla, Project Staff, representing the IND province.
The theme of the national-level workshop and consultation centered around “Decent Work and Living Conditions for Internal Migrants in India,” focusing on the challenges faced by migrants and unorganized workers. The event aimed to delve into topics such as social securities and occupational health, safety and working conditions, migrant helpline services, unorganized street vendors, and migrant assistance and information networking.
Prominent personalities from relevant fields were invited to share their expertise. Mrs. Anuradha Talwar from the PBKM Trade Union addressed the challenges faced by migrants and unorganized workers, shedding light on the issues that needed urgent attention. Prof. Aman Gupta from the National University of Juridical Sciences in Kolkata delivered a presentation on ISM registration and the importance of trade unions.
Mrs. Divya Varma from Ajeevika Bangalore, a research and policy organization, discussed social securities, occupational health, safety, and working conditions for internal migrants. Mr. Sushovan Dhar from India Labour Line Kolkata highlighted the significance of migrant helpline services, emphasizing the need for a support system that could assist migrants in times of distress. Mr. Shaktiman Ghosh from a trade union organization addressed the challenges faced by unorganized street vendors.
To further discuss migrant assistance and information networking, Fr. Anbu Raj from the Jesuit Kolkata shared insights and experiences, providing valuable guidance in this domain. Additionally, Fr. Ratna SDB talked about the Bosco 4 Migrants Helpline, offering valuable information about the services and support available through this initiative.
The workshop proved to be a fruitful platform for participants to exchange knowledge, learn from experiences, and explore effective ways to empower the Don Bosco For Migrants Team. Additionally, the formation of trade unions was emphasized as a crucial step towards addressing the issues faced by unorganized workers.
The Director of Migrant Ministry Archdiocese of Kolkata, Dr. Sunil Rosario, graced the event as the Chief Guest, along with Kolkata Provincial Fr Joseph Pauria. Their presence and support added weight to the workshop, underscoring the importance of the cause and the commitment of the Salesian Provincial Conference of South Asia to uplift the lives of internal migrants in India.
With the conclusion of the Don Bosco Migrants Consultation and National Workshop, the Salesian Provincial Conference of South Asia hopes to have sparked positive change and empowered individuals and organizations to work towards providing better living and working conditions for internal migrants across the country.
(IND Webmaster)
