AMRAT Chhattisgarh Elects New Coordinator, Strengthens Anti-Trafficking Network

KUNKURI, October 20, 2026: The second regional assembly of AMRAT, the Talitha Kum India Network in Chhattisgarh, has elected Sr Annie Jesus, FMM, as its new regional coordinator and called for coordinated action to combat human trafficking and unsafe migration.

Held on October 9 at St Anne’s Provincialate in Kunkuri, the assembly brought together women religious to discuss trafficking-related challenges, strengthen collaboration and develop strategies to protect vulnerable communities, particularly women and children.

Fr Mukti Prakash Minj, vicar general of Jashpur Diocese, highlighted poverty, unemployment, limited access to education and deceptive employment offers as factors that make people vulnerable to trafficking. He urged religious congregations and social service organisations to intensify awareness programmes, strengthen community vigilance and coordinate efforts to prevent exploitation.

Fr Sebastian Lakra, SJ, the resource person, explained the distinction between safe migration and distress migration, drawing attention to the risks associated with poverty, debt, unemployment and fraudulent recruitment. He stressed the importance of verifying job offers, protecting workers’ rights and maintaining support networks for migrants. Skill development, vocational training and sustainable livelihood opportunities, he said, were essential to reducing vulnerability to trafficking.

Sr Meera Mathew, RGS, outlined AMRAT’s origins in 2009 and its mission to address human trafficking, unsafe migration and exploitation. She emphasised the need for solidarity and sustained collaboration among religious congregations, social workers and community networks to support people affected by injustice.

Sr Regina Rozario, SCSC, facilitated an interactive session examining the impact of human trafficking on individuals, families and communities. The discussion addressed the vulnerability of missing children, fair wages, workers’ rights and the protection of at-risk groups. She called for greater community vigilance, timely reporting of suspected trafficking cases and stronger local protection mechanisms.

During the assembly, participants discussed the importance of networking and formulated an action plan to strengthen AMRAT’s presence and activities across Chhattisgarh. The election of Sr Annie Jesus as regional coordinator was followed by a welcome ceremony acknowledging her new responsibility.

The assembly opened with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp and a welcome dance presented by DSA postulants. Sr Philomina, JMJ, welcomed the participants with shawls and saplings and underscored the importance of collective efforts to promote safe migration and prevent human trafficking.

The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthen cooperation among women religious and community stakeholders, protect vulnerable people from exploitation and promote a society that respects human dignity and safeguards the rights of all.

By Catholic Connect Reporter