Report on Awareness Programme on Violence Against Women and Human Trafficking

An awareness programme on Violence Against Women and Human Trafficking was conducted on 25 May 2026 at Zoluti Hall, Serchhip, in collaboration with MHIP, Vengchung Branch. The programme was organised to sensitise women on issues related to violence, exploitation and human trafficking, and to create awareness about the support services and mechanisms available for women in distress. The session was facilitated by Ms. Lalchhanhimi, Central Administrator, One Stop Centre (OSC), Serchhip, and was chaired by the Community Coordinator. A total of 74 persons participated in the programme.

The resource person highlighted the importance of uplifting the status of women and promoting their dignity, rights, safety and participation in society. She emphasised that women should be aware of their rights and should not remain silent when faced with violence, abuse, exploitation or other forms of injustice. Participants were encouraged to support and assist women who may be experiencing violence and to seek timely help from the appropriate authorities and support institutions.

A major part of the session focused on the One Stop Centre (OSC), also known as the Sakhi Centre, and how it functions. The resource person explained that the OSC serves as an integrated support facility for women affected by violence. It provides a single point of access to different forms of assistance, depending on the needs of the survivor. The services include immediate medical assistance and first aid, police assistance, legal aid and guidance, psychosocial counselling, and temporary shelter. The Centre can also facilitate coordination with relevant departments and authorities to ensure that survivors receive appropriate and timely support. Participants were informed that the One Stop Centre in Serchhip is located at P&E and that women in need can approach the Centre for assistance.

The resource person also shared case studies of Mizo girls who had been trafficked and subsequently rescued. These real-life examples helped the participants understand the different ways in which women and girls can become vulnerable to trafficking, particularly through false promises of employment and better income. The participants were cautioned against accepting unverified job offers and were advised to carefully verify employers, recruitment agencies and employment conditions before travelling for work.

Special emphasis was placed on advertisements offering employment as domestic workers or maids in Middle Eastern and other Asian countries. Participants were advised not to respond to such advertisements without proper verification, as fraudulent recruitment and trafficking may occur through misleading employment offers.

The participants were also informed about the Women Helpline numbers in Mizoram—181 and 1800-599-1722 (toll-free), which can be contacted for assistance and support. They were encouraged to share the information with other women and community members.

Outcome

The programme enhanced the participants’ awareness of violence against women, human trafficking, prevention measures and available support services. It also improved their understanding of the role and functioning of the One Stop Centre and encouraged them to seek timely assistance and report cases of violence or trafficking to the appropriate authorities.