By C.M. Paul
Guwahati, January 8, 2025:– A revealing survey on the migration trends of the Satgaon parish community has brought to light significant patterns in population movements. Conducted in 31 villages of Mary Help of Christians parish in Satgaon, West Karbi Anglong, the survey was administered between May and November 2023.
The findings, disclosed by Missionary Sister of Mary Help of Christians Tezpur province Mission Councilor Sr. Shantina Tudu during the Second Migrant Workers’ Day held on January 4, under the theme ‘Go Safe, Stay Safe,’ showcased the depth of migration within the parish.
The Key Findings of the Survey
A total of 1,596 individuals from Satgaon parish—932 males and 664 females—have migrated to various parts of India for work. The highest source villages are Boldampara (141), Rengthama No. 14 (125), Jalpara A (114), and Satgaon (107).
Age distribution among migrant workers showed highest number (501) to be between 21 and 25 ages followed by 26 to 30 years (388); followed by 36 to 40 years (322).
Among the types of employment these migrants engaged included: Companies: 453; Domestic Helpers: 263; Restaurants: 14; other Household Works: 102; as well as unskilled workers: 352.
The survey emphasized significant migration of young people, many of whom are young couples working in different locations, often leaving their children with grandparents or relatives, resulting in split families and potential school and college dropouts.
Popular migration destinations of workers included Mumbai (782); Bangalore (274) and Kerala (96)
Insights and Reactions
The parish, situated in West Karbi Anglong district of Assam, is run by the Salesians and falls under the diocese of Diphu. With over 13,000 faithful, it is the largest parish in the diocese in terms of population, predominantly composed of the Garo community.
Salesian Father Albert Thyrniang, the parish priest of Satgaon, who administered the survey, shared that the findings offered an in-depth understanding of migration trends within the parish community. Migrant workers also narrated their personal experiences, highlighting both the challenges of separation from families and the positives of their work.
Father Ignatius Gari, Associate Director of Bosco Reach Out and Coordinator for Migrant Workers of the Guwahati Salesian Province, graced the event. He emphasized the mission of the national desk of Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M), discussing vital issues affecting migrants, such as the causes of migration, safe migration practices, challenges, risks, and migrant workers’ rights. He also underscored the importance of financial savings, skill training, and awareness of training opportunities provided by Bosco Reach Out.
The gathering also saw participation from church and local leaders who commended the migrants’ dedication to supporting their families while expressing concerns about school and college dropouts, migration of minors, and the impact of family separation.
The survey findings underscore the need for more comprehensive support and resources for migrant workers and their families, aiming for better living and working conditions and more stable family units.