16 August, 2025
National Convention for Migrant Workers’ Platform – Hyderabad, Telangana | 16–17 August 2025
Overview:
The National Convention for Migrant Workers’ Platform was held in Hyderabad on 16–17 August 2025, under the theme “Building a United Platform for Dignity, Hope and Inclusion.” The two-day event brought together eighty-five migrant mission actors, including Salesian Migrant Desk delegates from eleven provinces, Church leaders, religious sisters, NGO representatives, and trade union activists from across India. The convention coincided with the 210th birth anniversary of St. John Bosco, emphasizing his vision of accompanying young workers and advocating for their rights.
Inaugural Session:
The inaugural session featured a welcome address by Mrs. Kiran Jyothsna, a skit titled “Their Dreams are Our Dreams” performed by Don Bosco Navajeevan children, and an anthem “Let Their Dreams Rise” composed by Fr. Prasad Kalaparthy. A minute of silence honored migrants who had lost their lives in the Sigachi factory tragedy. Dignitaries recited the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, affirming justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, before lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Keynote Addresses:
Fr. Joe Prabu, Executive Director of Don Bosco Forum for the Young at Risk, called for stronger solidarity and the creation of a national platform for migrants. Fr. Thomas Santiagu, Provincial of Hyderabad, emphasized unity over individual credit and encouraged transformative ministry for workers and their supporters. Ms. Christine Nathan, President of ICMC, highlighted India’s failure to ratify international conventions on migrant rights, while Fr. Francis Bosco stressed the need for a comprehensive internal migration law and a dedicated government mechanism.
Expert Presentations:
Expert sessions provided deeper insights into migration issues. Prof. Vijay discussed historical and economic drivers of migration, including inequality and poor sanitation. Sr. Lissy Joseph highlighted grassroots organizing for domestic workers, while gig and platform workers’ representatives shared challenges such as lack of insurance and legal recognition. Ms. Geetha R. advocated for compulsory registration, voting rights, and child protection measures, and Prof. Babu Matthew emphasized legal recognition for gig workers under labour law.
Experience Sharing:
Salesian Migrant Desk directors from Mumbai, Gujarat, Chennai, Tiruppur, Bangalore, Kerala, Goa, Gauhati, and Kolkata shared experiences in entitlement facilitation, healthcare, skilling, shelters, advocacy, and government networking. Partner organizations, including CCBI, CBCI, MAIN, Montfort Social Institute, SVD, MSMHC, SIMN, and UFS, presented their work in pastoral care, emergency support, advocacy, and community engagement, promoting collective learning and collaboration.
Day Two Highlights:
The second day opened with Mr. Nirmal Gorani of the National Campaign Committee for the Eradication of Bonded Labour sharing his journey from bonded labourer to activist. Presentations by Mr. Benoy Peter showcased innovative practices such as WHO-recognized Bandhu Clinics, mobile health services, and Shramik Seva Kendras. Group discussions focused on creating a Common Minimum Programme for migrants, emphasizing rights awareness, registration, documentation, youth engagement, and the recognition of migrants as valuable contributors to society.
Conclusion and Way Forward:
The convention concluded with His Eminence Cardinal Anthony Poola releasing Fr. Prakash Louis SJ’s book “Jesus the Distressed Migrant Today” and affirming the Church’s commitment to migrants. Fr. Francis Bosco outlined a roadmap including migrant desks in every province, sector-specific interventions, advocacy, unionization, and stronger collaboration among Church, civil society, and trade unions. Participants left with a renewed commitment to a unified national platform, ensuring that the dreams of migrants rise.