The first day began with a visit to the PHIA Foundation, where Mr. Dheeraj Horo, State Lead, shared the organization’s interventions with Adivasi communities and migrant workers. He recalled the migrant emergency helpline operated during the COVID-19 pandemic in collaboration with more than 150 stakeholders, and highlighted ongoing work in strengthening Gram Sabhas and implementing provisions under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA).

The team then proceeded to the State Migrant Control Room under the Labour Department, where discussions with Ms. Shikha Lakhra and Mr. Pradip Lakhra, Joint Labour Commissioner, revealed the state’s growing efforts to integrate migrant registration with welfare delivery systems. Ms. Shikha demonstrated the Shramdhan Portal, a digital platform used to register migrant workers, track their movement, and ensure access to emergency benefits in cases of accident, death, or return migration. A significant proposal discussed was the establishment of Migrant Resource Centres (MRCs) in five destination states to support Jharkhand migrants, underscoring the importance of collaboration between government systems and civil society initiatives.

In the afternoon, the group visited Bagaicha, a well-known social action centre where the Jesuit Migrant Assistance Network (MAIN) operates. The centre plays a vital role in bridging source communities with destination support systems. The visit included a tribute to Fr. Stan Swamy, remembered for his lifelong solidarity with Adivasi communities. Later, the team travelled to Rudnungkocha Adivasi village and Don Bosco School Rudnungkocha, where interactions with the principal, teachers, and the Disciples of Jesus sisters managing the hostel offered insights into the educational realities of the region. A meeting with villagers revealed the pressing challenges that compel migration, grounding the team in the lived realities behind migration.

The second day focused on strengthening institutional collaboration. A gathering at the Social Development Centre Ranchi brought together around 40 participants, including priests, religious leaders, Church commissions, and well-wishers from the Ranchi Archdiocese. The session was facilitated by Fr. Bipin, Director of the Social Forum (JHAN Region), and Fr. Mukul, SJ, Migrant Secretary of the Archdiocese. Discussions centred on building stronger coordination between source and destination centres. Delegates from different Salesian provinces shared their experiences of working with migrants at destination points, highlighting the importance of reconnecting these efforts back to source communities.

The visit culminated in a meeting with Bishop Vincent Aind, who emphasized the need for a coordinated and compassionate response to migration. His message reflected a shared commitment to building sustainable linkages that uphold the dignity and well-being of migrant communities.

The two-day programme reaffirmed that effective migrant support requires bridging source and destination realities. From engaging grassroots organizations and government systems to listening to the voices of Adivasi families, the visit deepened understanding of migration as both a necessity and a challenge. Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M) reiterated its mission to promote safe, dignified, and rights-based migration. The team expressed sincere gratitude to the Salesians of Don Bosco Bariattu and Hatia, and the Jesuits at Bagaicha, especially Fr. Bipin and Fr. Mukul, SJ, for their warm hospitality, thoughtful arrangements, and dedicated coordination that made the visit fruitful and meaningful.