The training commenced with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist led by Fr. Deepu Mathew, INK Migrant Desk In-Charge, who drew on Gospel themes of compassion and inclusion. He reminded the gathering that faithful ministry to migrants must prioritize human dignity over legality—echoing Christ's response to the hunger of the crowds.

Fr. Francis Bosco, National Director of DB4M, and Fr. Pravinth, Provincial Councillor, introduced the training, with reflections on the biblical roots of migration and the Salesian call to serve those on the margins. Fr. Abhilash, the new Head of the INK Migrant Desk, outlined a vision for deeper grassroots engagement and resource mobilization.

A Platform for Learning and Advocacy

The programme featured a wide array of expert-led sessions addressing the challenges and realities faced by internal migrants. Topics included legal protections, exploitation in the informal sector, digital registration, and the need for coordinated documentation systems.

Key contributors included:
• Mrs. Ruth Manorama, on the rights of domestic women workers.
• Jan Sahas, sharing the Migrant Resilience Collaborative model.
• Fr. Simolin from Chennai Province, on operationalizing Migrant Resource Centres.
• Legal perspectives from India Labour Line and AICCTU on labour codes and worker helplines.
• Real-life narratives from gig workers, bonded sugarcane labourers, and garment workers.
• A session on Migrant Spiritual Assistance by Fr. Franklin Minj, Regional Secretary for Migrants, Bangalore Diocese.

Visioning the Future: Priorities for 2025–26

Day two began with the Eucharist led by Fr. Blasius Tete, who used the journey of the Israelites from Rameses to Succoth as a metaphor for the uncertain path walked by migrants today. "God is walking with the migrants," Fr. K.J. Jose reminded, setting the tone for the day's collaborative planning.

Each Salesian province presented reports on their migrant desk initiatives, challenges, and strategic priorities. Through cross-group discussions, the group formulated several action plans:
• Leveraging mobile-based data tools for migrant tracking.
• Organizing cultural festivals to foster inclusion and awareness.
• Training on labour laws and workers' rights.
• Community leadership formation and volunteer engagement.
• Focused outreach to high-risk sectors such as construction, brick kilns, gig work, and agriculture.

Fr. Francis Bosco also shared DB4M's national updates, including plans for the National Convention for Distressed Migrant Youth scheduled for August 16–17 in Hyderabad.

A Spirit of Solidarity

The event concluded with words of appreciation to the host community and contributors. Fr. Deepu Mathew thanked the support staff, the Bosco Mane team, and the children who contributed to creating a welcoming environment. Fr. Francis Bosco extended his gratitude to INK Provincial Fr. Pallipuram Varghese and the Bengaluru organizing team for their outstanding hospitality and coordination.

This gathering stands as a renewed affirmation of the Salesian commitment to accompany, advocate for, and empower India's internal migrants. As the participants declared in unity, "We are also migrants — in mission, in spirit, and solidarity."