Fr Blasius Tate –
Dimapur, Nagaland: On October 25, 2024, an orientation programme on the YaR and Migrant ministry was held at the Provincial House in Dimapur, Nagaland, aimed at revamping the ministries. Led by resource persons Fr. Francis Bosco and Fr. Joe Prabhu from the Don Bosco National Forum for Young at Risk, Delhi the session engaged 52 participants (Rectors and In-charges) from the Dimapur Province, running from 8:45 AM to 4 PM.
At 8:45 AM, Rev. Fr. Pampackal Joseph, Provincial of Dimapur Province, welcomed resource persons Fr. Joe Prabhu and Fr. Francis Bosco, setting an engaging tone for the day. The seminar was expertly moderated by Fr. Kapani Deli David, Vice Provincial.
Fr. Joe Prabhu, Executive Director of Don Bosco National Forum for the Young at Risk, opened the sessions with a compelling talk on “Building a Dream and Reality for YaR in India.” He shared insights into the reach of Don Bosco institutions, which served over 230,000 children and young adults in 2023-24. However, he raised concerns about whether these institutions primarily serve the most vulnerable groups.
Using a quote from St. John Bosco, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the underprivileged: “The world will always welcome us as long as all our concern is for the under-developed peoples, for poor children, for those members of society most in danger.”
Fr. Prabhu introduced a “Bottom Up” approach, showcasing successful initiatives developed by individuals addressing local issues. He also highlighted DB YaR’s 2024-25 campaign, “Family is where I Belong,” which aims to promote family-based care for at-risk children.
Fr. Prabhu discussed the significance of data-driven decision-making, introducing the Homelink DIGI platform for improved program management and impact assessment.
Fr. Francis Bosco, an advocate and a seasoned social activist, outlined strategies to support migrant workers in North East India, especially in Upper Assam. He highlighted critical issues such as inadequate shelter, wage theft, and lack of basic amenities that many migrant workers face. The DB4M Forum has established dedicated migrant desks and initiated programs focusing on immediate assistance and long-term advocacy.
Key initiatives include:
- Setting up railway station help desks in major cities
- Facilitating access to government documentation and welfare schemes
- Providing emergency assistance through a national helpline (9642 372 372)
- Establishing migrant protection forums in various states
- Collaborating with government departments and trade unions
- Linking destination states with the source states
Fr. Bosco emphasized the goal of creating a comprehensive support network to address both immediate and systemic challenges faced by migrant workers.
The afternoon also featured a session on the Child Safeguarding Policy by Fr. Joe Prabhu, stressing the importance of creating safe environments for youth. Participants received detailed training on the updated Salesian Child Safeguarding Policy, which mandates the formation of Child Safeguarding Committees within each institution.
A two-year compliance framework was introduced, requiring personnel to acknowledge and adhere to safeguarding guidelines, including regular monitoring and reporting mechanisms.
The day concluded with a framework for action moderated by Fr. Kapani Deli David, followed by a Provincial Community Day celebration featuring a Holy Mass, get-togather around Fr. Provincial and festive dinner. This orientation not only strengthened the commitment to youth and migrant ministry initiatives but also fostered a sense of community among the participants.