On 27th May 2025, a comprehensive Director-level monitoring visit was conducted in Bashirhat under the Anti-Human Trafficking (AHT) and Empowerment and Leadership of Survivors (ELS) projects. Led by the Director of KMWSC, Sr. Biviyana Lepcha, the visit underscored the organisation’s commitment to enhancing protection mechanisms, fostering community collaboration, and ensuring the effective implementation of grassroots initiatives.

Key Activities & Engagements:

1. Survivors’ Group Meeting:

   The Director engaged with survivors of human trafficking to understand their rehabilitation progress, challenges, and aspirations. Discussions focused on livelihood opportunities, psychosocial support, and long-term reintegration strategies.

2. Collaboration with CP & CVC Members:

   A strategic meeting with Child Protection (CP) and Community Vigilance Committee (CVC) members highlighted efforts at the ground level to prevent trafficking and safeguard vulnerable families. The Director applauded their vigilance and discussed scaling community-led awareness campaigns.

3. Home Visits:

   The team conducted home visits to interact with beneficiaries of the LES project, assessing the impact of livelihood training and educational support on household stability and child welfare.

4. Field Staff Meeting:

   A dedicated session with field staff addressed operational challenges, celebrated successes, and outlined strategies to strengthen outreach in high-risk areas.

5. Visit to Swarupnagar Police Station:

   The Director visited Swarupnagar Police Station to reinforce partnerships with law enforcement. Discussions emphasised coordinated efforts to combat trafficking, expedite survivor redressal, and enhance community policing.

6. Child-Friendly Corner Inspection:

   The newly established Child-Friendly Corner — a safe space for children in crisis — was reviewed. The Director emphasised its role in providing trauma-informed care and recreational support.

Impact & Reflections:

The visit reinforced the critical role of multi-stakeholder collaboration in combating trafficking and empowering marginalised communities. By engaging survivors, law enforcement, and grassroots leaders, the AHT and ELS projects demonstrated their holistic approach to sustainable change. The Director’s interactions underscored the importance of adaptive strategies to address emerging challenges while celebrating the resilience of survivors and frontline workers.

Voices from the Visit:

“Meeting survivors and hearing their stories of courage reaffirms why we fight for systemic change. Every child and family deserves safety and dignity.” — Sr. Biviyana Lepcha, Director – KMWSC

“The Child-Friendly Corner is more than a space—it’s a lifeline for children who’ve faced trauma. We’re proud to partner with KMWSC in this mission.” — Swarupnagar Police Representative

Gratitude & Acknowledgments:

KMWSC extends heartfelt thanks to survivors of human trafficking, CP/CVC members, field staff, Swarupnagar Police, and community partners for their unwavering dedication. Together, we are building a future where every individual thrives free from exploitation.

“Collaboration transforms lives. Join us in safeguarding futures.”

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