In a significant move aimed at addressing the challenges faced by migrant workers in the country, a pioneering initiative called “Pravasi Bandhu Phase II” was officially launched on August 8, 2023, in the nation’s capital. The program, organized by Caritas India, is a huge step towards helping and empowering the migrant population at large.

The launch event, which took place at the Navjivan Renewal Centre, was attended by esteemed leaders and organizations committed to addressing the needs of migrants through partnerships under the project.

The inaugural day witnessed the presence of Fr. (Dr.) Paul Moonjely, Executive Director of Caritas India; Ms. Neha Wardhwan from the International Labour Organisation; Ms. Babita Pinto, Head of Programmes at Caritas India; and Ms. Parul Sharma, Lead of Migration and Reintegration. A notable highlight of the event was the participation of all nine diocesan directors and the dedicated Pravasi Bandhu team, signifying the collective commitment to the program’s objectives.

Fr. Paul set the tone of the four-day orientation program by stating, “Every face is God’s face”. The phrase conveys a message of universal love and spiritual unity, inviting individuals to see beyond surface differences and connect with the deeper essence that resides within every human being.

The day was marked by an important highlight: Caritas Goa presented the migrant policy framework and submitted it to the government of Goa. Caritas India is thoughtful about this success and congratulates the team for their incredible effort.

The second day was marked by an insightful overview of the second phase’s aims and activities. Participants engaged in thoughtful discussions, followed by group activities and brainstorming sessions to identify the target population that the partners would diligently work with over the next three years. Deliberations also focused on the establishment and operation of Migrant resource centres, help desks, and short-stay homes, which are the key focus of the Pravasi Bandhu program, accompanied by detailed discussions outlining key responsibilities at the partner level.

The program’s momentum continued on the third day, with Dr. Jayaraj conducting a session on the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) framework. Group activities centered around this framework provided participants with a solid foundation for effective implementation. Additionally, participants received a comprehensive orientation on the Kobo Toolbox and the reporting formats crucial for program success. A highlight of the day was an engaging discourse on program finance led by Ms. Jancy and her team, emphasizing the essential financial underpinnings necessary for the program’s sustained impact.

The fourth and final day of the program was dedicated to formulating a detailed implementation plan. Participants collaborated to map out the practical steps required to execute the program’s vision effectively. The discussions were both strategic and pragmatic, focusing on how to translate the program’s goals into actionable initiatives that would bring about tangible positive changes in the lives of migrants.

The launch and orientation of the four-day Pravasi Bandhu program exemplified a shared commitment to advancing the welfare of migrant communities. With a diverse group of stakeholders, comprehensive sessions, and a resounding spirit of collaboration, the event set a promising precedent for the program’s impactful journey ahead.