Women Religious Convene in Ranchi to Strengthen Advocacy for Migrants and Trafficked Persons

Ranchi, February 23, 2026 — Amid rising concerns over unsafe migration and human trafficking, women religious from across eastern and northern India gathered in Jharna from February 19 to 21 for a capacity enhancement workshop focused on strengthening accompaniment, assistance and advocacy for migrants and trafficked persons.

The three-day programme was organised by Talitha Kum and aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the realities surrounding migration and trafficking while equipping them with practical strategies for pastoral and social response. Sessions were facilitated by Fr. Francis Bosco and Prakash Louis, who guided reflections grounded in faith, mission and social responsibility.

Around 35 women religious representing Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar and Delhi took part in the workshop. Participants examined contemporary challenges facing religious life and mission, assessed the situation of migrants and trafficked persons, and explored approaches to organising, networking and advocacy.

The engagement extended beyond formal sessions into the wider Church community. Participants joined Sr. Lalita in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which Prakash Louis reflected on the Church’s commitment to those living on the margins, particularly migrants and trafficking survivors. Interaction with young people formed part of the outreach, highlighting the importance of awareness across generations.

At the request of participants, a meeting was later convened with Bishop Vincent Aind to discuss key concerns emerging from the workshop and the need for coordinated diocesan and regional responses. Representatives from migrant support initiatives and Church commissions contributed to the dialogue, emphasising the urgency of collaborative action.

Among the key outcomes was the strengthening of networks among participating congregations and institutions. Efforts are now underway to engage with government authorities, including proposals to initiate discussions on formal cooperation mechanisms to promote safer migration and enhance protection systems for vulnerable communities.

Organisers said the workshop underscored the Church’s continuing commitment to stand with migrants and trafficked persons, translating concern into coordinated action rooted in justice and human dignity.

By Catholic Connect Reporter