Participants at the Migrant Workers’ Day organised by Satgaon Parish on 4th January 2025 with the theme “Go Safe, Stay Safe.”
Satgaon celebrated its Second Migrant Workers’ Day on December 4, 2025, under the theme “Go Safe, Stay Safe.” The event was graced by Fr. Ignatius Gari, Associate Director of Bosco Reach Out and Coordinator for Migrant Workers of the Guwahati Province, who served as the chief guest. Approximately 200 migrant workers participated in the program organized by the Satgaon Parish Migrant Desk.
In his address and presentation, Fr. Ignatius highlighted the mission and activities of Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M), a nationwide organization that collaborates with various agencies to support migrant workers. He discussed key issues affecting migrants, including the causes of migration, safe migration practices, challenges and risks, and the rights of migrant workers. Fr. Ignatius also emphasized the importance of financial savings, skill training, and awareness of training opportunities provided by Bosco Reach Out and other agencies.
Fr. Albert Thyrniang, the parish priest, delivered the welcome address and keynote speech, during which he shared insights from a comprehensive survey he conducted across all 31 villages (now 32) of Satgaon Parish between May and September 2024. The survey findings, released in September 2024, provided an in-depth understanding of migration trends within the parish.
According to the survey, 1,596 individuals from Satgaon Parish have migrated to various parts of the country for work, including 932 males and 664 females. Mumbai emerged as the most popular destination, attracting 782 workers, followed by Bangalore with 274, and Kerala with 96. Among the source villages, Boldampara (141 migrants), Rengthama No. 14 (125), Jalpara A (114), and Satgaon (107) topped the list.
The age distribution of migrants revealed concerning patterns: 501 individuals are aged 21-25, 388 are aged 26-30, 322 are aged 36-40, 199 are aged 31-35, and a significant 255 are aged 18-20.
In terms of employment, the majority work in companies (453), as domestic helpers (263), in restaurants (141), or in other household roles (102). Notably, 352 migrants did not disclose their type of employment.
During the event, migrant workers shared their personal experiences, shedding light on the challenges of prolonged separation from their families as well as the positive aspects of their work.
Invited church and local leaders also addressed the gathering. While commending the migrants for their dedication to supporting their families, they expressed concerns about certain trends, such as school and college dropouts, migration of minors, and the impact of family separation, with members often living in different locations.
The program concluded with a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Albert Thyrniang and Fr. Ignatius Gari.
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