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On July 30, 2025, to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, six of our MIDS team members including our Director Rev. Fr. Jerome C. participated in a powerful and eye-opening webinar organized by Caritas India titled “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation.” Over 90 participants from around the world joined this session, making it a truly global dialogue on one of the most pressing challenges. The session focused on how disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and pandemics often create the perfect environment for trafficking networks to exploit vulnerable populations. It was highlighted that during these times, when families are displaced, institutions are weakened, and law enforcement is diverted, traffickers prey on the most vulnerable especially children, women, migrants, and economically poor families. The speakers presented real examples, such as the Nepal Earthquake in 2015 and Cyclone Amphan in 2020, to show the rise in trafficking incidents following major disasters. The session also covered key indicators of trafficking, such as lack of access to personal documents, visible signs of abuse, and restricted communication. Participants learned about the importance of including anti-trafficking measures in disaster response plans, setting up safe spaces, training frontline workers, creating multilingual helplines, and promoting women’s livelihoods to reduce vulnerability. NGOs were recognized as having a critical role in prevention and protection, especially in creating child-friendly spaces and supporting survivors. The session also touched on emerging trends like online trafficking, fake skill training centers, and exploitation through IVF and egg donation scams. It further addressed the real challenges in rescue and rehabilitation, such as delayed FIRs, family pressure, poor shelter facilities, and lengthy legal procedures. The webinar concluded with a strong call for collaborative action to protect migrants’ rights, embed anti-trafficking systems into disaster response, and ensure survivors receive ongoing mental health, legal, and economic support. This learning experience has significantly strengthened MIDS to advocate for justice, safety, and dignity for all, especially the most vulnerable among us.

World Environment Day 2025 Theme: Solutions to Plastic Pollution Date: 5th June 2025 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM (IST) Organized by: Caritas India In observance of World Environment Day 2025, Caritas India hosted a powerful webinar on “Solutions to Plastic Pollution”, bringing together a diverse group of thought leaders, innovators, and activists committed to reimagining plastic waste as a resource for sustainability and social change. Over 100 participants from around the world joined this session, making it a truly global dialogue on one of the most pressing environmental challenges. Representatives from Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) Mrs. Jeseentha and Mr. Shabin, coordinators actively participated in this insightful session and gained valuable new insights. Speaker Highlights: Mr. Paul Koshi – Co-founder, Unified Intelligence Pvt Ltd Topic: Waste = Untapped Wealth Mr. Koshi showcased how discarded plastic wrappers from the food industry can be transformed into eco-friendly construction blocks. These blocks are waterproof, thermally insulated, earthquake-resistant, and used in classrooms, houses, and cold storage units for farmers. His innovation exemplifies how plastic waste can be repurposed into sustainable infrastructure materials that are both cost-effective and environmentally responsible. Mr. Samuel Omondi – National Director, Caritas Kenya Topic: Plastic Pollution Control: Kenya’s Experience Mr. Omondi shared Kenya’s pioneering efforts in banning plastic bags and implementing PET recycling initiatives. Despite early resistance, policy changes and legal amendments led to one of the world’s strictest plastic bag bans. He emphasized that policy enforcement, public awareness, and political will are critical to sustained impact in plastic waste reduction. Ms. Ruchi Sharma – Lead – CSR and Partnerships, KRAFTON India Topic: Plastic-Free Communities: Driving Change through CSR, Partnerships & People Power Ms. Sharma emphasized community participation and the role of CSR in enabling systemic change. She advocated for partnerships among NGOs, citizens, and government bodies to build plastic-free communities. Her message centered on trust, empowerment, and the need for grassroots, volunteer-led movements to shift from short-term cleanups to long-term solutions. Dr. Haridas – Environmental Health Expert Topic: Invisible Threat: Microplastics’ Impact Dr. Haridas drew attention to the pervasive presence of microplastics in our food, water, and environment. From plastic water tanks to seafood, he highlighted the health risks posed by these invisible particles. He recommended practical steps like avoiding shellfish, not microwaving food in plastic, and drinking filtered water to reduce exposure. Dr. Randika Jayasinghe – Environmental Scientist Topic: From Waste to Wealth: Building Sustainable Livelihoods Through Plastic Innovations Dr. Jayasinghe shared inspiring stories of upcycling plastic waste into useful products-shoes, furniture, building materials, and even roads. She called for source segregation, energy recovery from non-recyclables, and product design focused on recyclability. Her message reinforced how innovation can turn plastic pollution into economic opportunities, especially for marginalized communities. This webinar served as a rich learning platform, demonstrating that plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue, but a social and economic challenge and that the solutions must be collaborative, inclusive, and innovative. MIDS is committed to incorporating these insights into our ongoing work for environmental sustainability and community empowerment.

The webinar on Navigating Gender and Sexual Identities in the Context of Family-Based Care was organized by IACN (India Alternative Care Network) on 26th March. The session provided valuable insights into the importance of inclusive care for children, particularly those with diverse gender identities, emphasizing family and community-based support rather than institutional care. The moderator highlighted that children should not be confined to institutional settings (CCIs) and should instead be nurtured within families and communities that provide holistic support and emotional stability. Dr. Sangeeta spoke about the significance of recognizing gender diversity, explaining that gender identity is distinct from sexual identity. She emphasized that identities are innate and should be accepted rather than forced into societal norms. Ms. Rajkumar shared her personal experiences of discrimination, including the challenges she faced while staying in a boys' hostel, where she was pressured to conform to male norms. She spoke about the bullying and exclusion she endured and stressed the need for institutions to foster inclusivity. She urged CCIs and schools to adopt supportive approaches rather than alienating children based on their gender expression. Mr. Dit underscored the importance of belongingness, stating that institutional care should always be the last resort. He emphasized the need for greater societal awareness regarding the struggles transgender individuals face. Many parents, unable to understand their child’s gender expression, often send them to CCIs instead of providing the necessary emotional and social support at home. This webinar was an enlightening experience, reinforcing the need for inclusive policies and social change to ensure the dignity and well-being of all children, regardless of their gender identity. Our organization remains committed to advocating for family and community-based care models that respect and support every child's individuality.

Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) actively participated in the Asia Regional Webinar – "Water for Future", organized by CIDAL of Caritas India in association with Caritas Asia to commemorate World Water Day 2025. The theme for this year was "Save Glaciers," emphasizing the urgent need to protect water ecosystems for future generations. Rev. Fr. Dr. Jerome, Director, MIDS, and Mr. Shabin S, Coordinator, MIDS, represented MIDS in this significant discussion, alongside other experts and policymakers, to address the pressing concerns related to water conservation, climate change, and sustainable water management. The webinar stressed that water is not just a resource but the essence of life itself. It is critical to ensure responsible management to secure drinking water and other water needs for the future. One of the major concerns discussed was the alarming rate of glacier melting, which has led to rising sea levels and increased climate stress. Experts highlighted the need for reducing carbon footprints and establishing community-based response systems to mitigate the impact of climate change on glaciers. Every individual and organization, including NGOs, should take proactive steps, even on a small scale, to contribute toward water conservation. The speakers also emphasized that water is increasingly in demand across countries, making it as valuable as "liquid gold." However, instead of treating it as a commodity, it should be recognized as a fundamental right. A notable example shared during the webinar was how New Zealand has legally recognized a river as a living entity and implemented policies to protect it. The discussion highlighted that the water crisis is not merely a technical issue but also a political challenge, with privatization and commercial interests threatening global water security. Governments, organizations, and communities must work together to preserve and conserve water resources responsibly, preventing water wars. The webinar provided critical insights into the global water crisis, with experts reminding that only 3% of the world's water is freshwater, and most of it comes from glaciers. Water pollution caused by plastic waste, harmful agricultural practices, and industrial contamination is worsening the situation. The conversation underscored that we must act collectively today to determine the water security of the future. Another key focus was on groundwater conservation and sustainable water management. Experts discussed the importance of understanding local geology and reviving traditional water conservation methods. Over-extraction of groundwater has led to depletion, necessitating sustainable approaches such as tree planting, water-based landscaping, rainwater harvesting, and groundwater recharge systems. Recycling and reusing water, especially in urban areas, were also suggested as crucial strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. Dr. Haridas V.R. shared successful case studies from different parts of India, showcasing models for rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and community-driven conservation projects. He demonstrated how some regions have effectively utilized rainwater collection systems to meet their drinking water and irrigation needs. The webinar also highlighted that India receives enough rainfall annually to meet water demands, but the real challenge lies in preserving water quality. Rising concerns over microplastic contamination and the excessive use of chemicals in agriculture were discussed, with experts urging stricter policies to regulate harmful practices affecting water safety. The event concluded with a call to action, emphasizing that water conservation is a shared responsibility. Some key takeaways included the adoption of rainwater harvesting, the revival of traditional conservation methods, reducing carbon footprints to slow glacier melting, and advocating for stronger policies to protect water resources. The webinar reinforced that water security is not just a government concern but a collective duty that requires immediate and sustained action. MIDS remains committed to implementing water conservation initiatives, promoting awareness, and actively working toward sustainable water management. This webinar served as an invaluable platform to exchange ideas, learn from successful conservation models, and inspire communities to take urgent action to safeguard water for the future.

"Today and every day, we celebrate the selfless work of social workers around the world! Thank you for your tireless efforts to create a more just and equitable society. #WorldSocialWorkDay #SocialWorkMatters"

On October 24th and 25th, 2024, Sr. Agatha DSS, Mrs. Reena, and Mrs. Sheeja attended a two-day training program on "Community Engagement" at the Karl Kubel Institute (a charitable institute founded by Mr. Karl Kubel from Germany in 1957) in Anaikatti, Coimbatore. The training was conducted by Dr. Uma Shanker, a dynamic and inspiring trainer. During the two days, Dr. Uma Shanker motivated us to pursue our social service with utmost dedication and commitment. We learned new insights that will be valuable for our work with MIDS. We understood that, as organizers, we must be with the group, like the group, and work for the group, accepting them as they are. Patience, love, and genuine concern are essential in our interactions. It is our responsibility to support individuals in achieving independence and contribute to the consistent socio-economic development of their families. This training enhanced our understanding of systematic leadership, group facilitation, and effective communication within community programs. We are grateful to God Almighty and extend our heartfelt thanks to Rev. Fr. Dr. Jerome C, the Director of MIDS, for this wonderful opportunity.