Key Inaugural Addresses
Mr. Sanjay Awasthi, Head of IOM India, delivered the welcome address.
Mr. Allen, UNRC, provided insights into India's engagement in the VNR process. Mrs. Deepika Naruka (UNRC Office) discussed smuggling and trafficking challenges, and Mrs. Parul Agarwala (UN-Habitat) emphasized the need for comprehensive migrant data collection.
Expert Contributions and Discussions
The session featured presentations and discussions on significant migration challenges. Mr. Amit Chowdhury (IOM) analyzed migration types, labour conditions, and socio-economic trends. Father Francis Bosco (Director of Migrants, India) outlined the four crucial themes affecting migrants: Affordable Housing—Need for inclusive housing policies; Social Protection—Strengthening access to healthcare, education, and financial aid; Women Migrants—Addressing workplace safety, wage gaps, and social services; and Safe Migration Policies—Creating dignified pathways for internal migration.
Policy Recommendations and Best Practices
Mr. Benoy (CMID Director) elaborated on post-COVID temporary programs and their impact, technological advancements in remittances and wage payments, and The portability of entitlements for migrant workers. Mrs. Divya (Work and Free Organization) highlighted the Registration of Migrants—essential for social welfare access; urban governance—inclusive policies for migrant integration; and One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC)—expanding awareness and outreach.
Best Practices:
CMID Mobile Clinic – Healthcare services for migrants.
Safe in India Initiative – Workplace safety in the automobile sector.
The Way Forward
The event concluded with Mr. Alok Kumar's (IOM) remarks, thanking Don Bosco partners, volunteers, and stakeholders. Participants were encouraged to submit recommendations to form a final policy report for NITI Aayog to shape future migration and urban poverty strategies in India.
Source: Don Bosco South Asia
