Collective Efforts Across the Nation

People's Action for Rural Awakening (PARA), Rajamahendravaram

In Rajamahendravaram, PARA organized a comprehensive awareness program at the YMCA Function Hall near Godavari Gattu. With support from government officials and social service organizations, the event aimed to educate migrant workers about their rights and available resources. Key speakers, including Assistant Commissioner of Labor BSM Valli and Crime Circle Inspector Rambabu, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among migrant workers about the precautions before migrating for work. They also highlighted the consequences of insufficient information and outlined various government initiatives and support programs designed to assist migrant workers in overcoming these challenges.

The speakers addressed the significant challenges migrant workers face, particularly those employed in factories, brick kilns, construction sites, and hotels across different states. PARA Director Thomas Pallithanam described the day as "a solemn reminder of the hardships migrants face" and called for collective action to secure their dignity and rights. The program featured discussions, NGO collaborations, and pledges to expand outreach efforts.

State-Level Policy Workshop on Disaster Management - INK

INK organized a state-level policy workshop focusing on disaster management for migrant workers. The initiative aimed to address vulnerabilities that migrant communities face during natural calamities, emphasizing preventive measures, rights education, and community-based approaches.

At Thanisandra, Saraipalya in Bangalore, KISMAT hosted a vibrant celebration with 43 migrant workers, mainly from Bihar and West Bengal. This event recognized their contributions to the construction and infrastructure sectors. Activities included recreational games, refreshments, and prize distribution, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Conducted in Hindi to ensure inclusivity, the program left participants feeling valued and connected. "The warmth and recognition we felt today will carry us forward in our daily lives," shared a migrant worker, capturing the essence of KISMAT's commitment to migrant empowerment.

SURAKSHA Migrants Desk Vadodara - INB

In Vadodara, the Suraksha Migrants Desk, in collaboration with the Maanavta Foundation, organized a health camp that provided free check-ups and medicines to 25 migrant workers. This initiative addressed the health needs of marginalized workers while reinforcing the importance of their welfare. Shital and Hiral, coordinators of the event, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to impact the lives of the attendees directly and reiterated their commitment to expanding such initiatives.

Don Bosco Migrant Services (DBMS) - INM

Don Bosco Migrant Services (DBMS) combined International Migrants Day with Christmas celebrations at Don Bosco Egmore, Chennai. This special event, attended by 167 registered migrants, featured an awareness session on safe migration and an introduction to DBMS services. The day's activities, which included cultural performances and recreational events, fostered joy and community among attendees. Migrants expressed heartfelt gratitude for the platform that enabled them to connect and celebrate. "This day made us feel valued and at home," remarked one participant.

Navsarjan, NGO Jesuit, Surat

In Surat, Navsarjan held an awareness program at the Pandesara labor naka, engaging approximately 600 migrant workers. The initiative focused on informing workers about their rights, government schemes, and the services provided by Migration Help Desks. This large-scale outreach effort underscored the organization's dedication to empowering the migrant workforce with knowledge and resources.

A Unified Call for Change

These events aligned with the overarching message of the Distressed International Young Migrant Workers Day manifesto: to champion the dignity, rights, and social security of internal migrants. The manifesto questioned the lack of formal recognition and protections for informal workers in India, urging stakeholders to enact policies ensuring minimum wages, decent working conditions, and social security.

From awareness programs and health camps to cultural celebrations and policy workshops, the initiatives exemplified a nationwide effort to bring visibility and justice to migrant workers. "Let us join and respect them as laborers with rights," said Father Francis Bosco, calling for collective action.