Nagaland observes World Day against Trafficking

DIMAPUR — The Noklak district administration, in collaboration with District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW) and Hope Channel, Dimapur, on Tuesday observed the ‘World Day against Trafficking in Persons 2024’ in the conference hall of the deputy commissioner’s office in Noklak town on the theme “Leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking.”

K Ela, director of Prodigals’ Home in Dimapur, who was the resource person, highlighted the need to raise awareness about human trafficking and its impact on society by citing real-life stories and experiences. She called upon stakeholders to work towards the elimination of all forms of human trafficking and abuse, state a DIPR report.

In his address, the deputy commissioner of Noklak, Arikumba, spoke about the issue of human trafficking.

It mentioned that World Day Against Trafficking in Persons was established by a United Nations resolution and was first observed in 2014. The United States also established National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in 2007 to raise awareness about human trafficking and national slavery.

It stated that this year’s global campaign focuses on the vulnerability of children, which called for accelerated action to end child trafficking.

Report further stated that children are subjected to various forms of trafficking including exploitation in forced labour, criminality or begging, illegal adoption and sexual abuse.

In a related programme, the National Domestic Workers Movement, in collaboration with Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID), observed the World Day Against Trafficking in Person in Sachu Colony, Dimapur, on Tuesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Sr. Florence, gave an insight to understanding human trafficking and highlighted the severe impacts on individuals and families. She also elaborated on the importance of support systems in combating the issue and added that parents have a great role in protecting and helping their children.

Delivering the welcome address, Sr. Pramila Lobo, coordinator of NDWM, Nagaland region, cautioned the attendees to remain vigilant against individuals who allure with promises of jobs and a better life. Her words served as a crucial reminder of the deceptive tactics often employed by traffickers, stated an update from the organisation.

She also cautioned the young girls against becoming prey to cyber fraud by uploading their images on the internet.

The event saw the participation of Lanusangla, director of Mission Shakti, and Lichibeni Yanthan, staff member of the same organisation. They have highlighted various schemes under the Mission Shakti initiative aimed at providing support and rehabilitation to victims of trafficking. They have provided invaluable insights in understanding the resources available for those affected mainly for women and girl children.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Sanu, wherein she expressed gratitude to all the speakers, participants and attendees for their contribution in making the event a successful one. She further emphasised the importance of collective effort in eradicating human trafficking.

Altogether, 102 participants attended the programme.