On 30 July 2026, ARZ – Anyay Rahit Zindagi observed World Day Against Trafficking in Persons at the Multipurpose Hall, Panaji Central Library, in collaboration with the Goa State Legal Services Authority, Goa Police, and Gomantak Times.

The programme brought together 146 participants, including 87 students, 6 faculty members, 13 WISH survivors, 10 ARZ staff members, and 30 guests, including government officials, judges, media representatives, Child Welfare Committee members, and para-legal volunteers.

The event focused on engaging young people in the fight against human trafficking, sexual exploitation and violence, while creating a platform for awareness, dialogue, and creative expression. Students from colleges across North and South Goa participated enthusiastically in the Reel Making Competition, with 13 reels from 11 colleges presented during the programme. Through themes of trafficking, freedom, safety, and hope, the students used creative storytelling to raise awareness and encourage collective action.

The programme was graced by Hon’ble Judge Mrs. Durga Madkaikar, Member Secretary, Goa State Legal Services Authority; Mrs. Nutan Vernekar, Superintendent of Police, Anti-Human Trafficking Unit; Mr. Raju Nayak, Editor, Gomantak; Mrs. Rupa Bhakta, Member, Goa State Commission for Women; and Ms. Juliana Lohar, Deputy Director, ARZ.

A significant highlight was the survivor-led contribution to the event. The dignitaries were welcomed with handcrafted stoles made by survivors, while products created through the WISH livelihood programme were distributed as prizes and gifts. Every student also received a bag made by survivors, connecting awareness with livelihood, dignity, and economic empowerment.

The Anti-Trafficking Trophy was awarded to Carmel College for Women – Undergraduate for their outstanding performance in the competition. Winners of the various reel categories, along with spot-prize winners, were felicitated, and participation certificates were presented to the students and annual reports to participating colleges.

The programme brought together youth, government institutions, law enforcement, media, civil society, and survivors on a common platform. Through dialogue, creative expression, and survivor-led livelihood initiatives, the event reinforced the message that ending human trafficking requires awareness, empathy, collective responsibility, and meaningful opportunities for survivors to rebuild their lives.

On 23 and 31 July 2026, ARZ, in collaboration with the Integrated Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (IAHTU), Goa Police, conducted specialised training sessions on Advanced Investigation of Human Trafficking Cases of Women and Girl Children for Commercial Sexual Exploitation at Safety GO – Institute Hall, Altinho.

The training was facilitated by Ms. Juliana Lohar and was conducted in two separate batches for 38 Police Sub-Inspectors (PSIs) and Lady Police Sub-Inspectors (LPSIs). The sessions aimed to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement officers to undertake comprehensive, intelligence-led and victim-sensitive investigations into human trafficking cases.

The training focused on understanding trafficking as an organised and interconnected criminal network rather than an isolated crime scene. Officers were introduced to key stages of investigation, including pre-rescue intelligence gathering, evidence collection, rescue and post-rescue procedures, victim protection, investigation and documentation, financial investigation, digital evidence collection, and prosecution.

A major highlight of the training was the practical exercise “The Room Tells the Story.” Officers were presented with an image of a searched spa and massage parlour and given a limited time to identify potential evidence and clues. The activity encouraged participants to look beyond obvious evidence and identify phones, SIM cards, cash, UPI QR codes, room keys, registers, receipts, identification documents, and other physical and digital clues that could help establish trafficking networks and financial linkages.

The sessions also included a review of relevant legal provisions and a rapid-fire quiz on common investigative mistakes, reinforcing the importance of timely seizure and preservation of evidence, CCTV footage, digital records, and financial trails. The training enabled police officers to strengthen their understanding of evidence-based investigation, digital and financial intelligence, victim-centred procedures, and effective prosecution of trafficking cases. The interactive methodology provided officers with practical tools that can be applied during investigations and field operations.

The WISH Skill Development Unit recently marked the completion of its final batch of tailoring students with a warm and memorable farewell gathering.

The programme celebrated the journey of the women and girls who participated in the tailoring training, recognising the skills, confidence, and opportunities they gained through the course. The training was designed not only to develop practical tailoring skills but also to encourage participants to explore avenues for livelihood, financial independence, and self-reliance.

The farewell was also an opportunity for students, trainers, and the WISH team to come together, share memories, and celebrate the relationships built throughout the training journey. The gathering was filled with appreciation, reflection, and encouragement as the participants moved forward with their newly acquired skills.

The occasion also marked the farewell of Ms. Rita Jaiswar, Instructor at the WISH Skill Development Unit, whose dedication and commitment contributed meaningfully to the training programme and the learning experience of the participants. Her warmth and connection with the students will be fondly remembered by the WISH family.

As this chapter of the tailoring programme comes to a close, we celebrate not just the completion of a course, but the skills, confidence, and possibilities that the women carry forward with them.Once WISH, always WISH.

At ARZ, we believe that sustainable livelihoods are an essential part of survivor rehabilitation and long-term empowerment. Technology can play an important role in making these livelihood initiatives more organised, efficient, and sustainable.

As part of this effort, Ms. Aditi Pradhan, a Computer Science student from BITS Pilani, developed a dedicated WISH Web App and trained the WISH team in its use. The application supports the day-to-day management of the enterprise by streamlining financial tracking, inventory management, workforce management, and real-time reporting.

The integration of digital tools enables the WISH team to manage operations more efficiently, maintain accurate records, and make informed decisions for the growth of its livelihood units.

Through WISH (Women’s Initiative for Self Help), ARZ continues to embrace innovation alongside rehabilitation and livelihood support, creating dignified employment opportunities and pathways towards economic independence for women.

Technology, when combined with opportunity and support, can help build stronger livelihoods and transform lives.

Economic empowerment begins when opportunities reach women where they are.

As part of its flagship livelihood programme, WISH (Women’s Initiative for Self Help), ARZ has established a community-based paper handle production unit in Baina, in collaboration with the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Club, which has generously provided the space for the initiative.

The unit brings livelihood opportunities closer to women in the community, particularly those with family and caregiving responsibilities. By enabling women to work closer to home and at their own pace, the initiative helps them earn an income while balancing their work and family responsibilities.

Through this model, WISH aims to make livelihood opportunities more accessible and create sustainable income-generating opportunities for women within their own communities.

WISH – Bringing livelihoods closer to women, one community at a time.

On 10 July 2026, 55 Self-Help Group (SHG) Mentors from across Goa visited ARZ–WISH as part of an Exposure Visit and Training Programme organised by the Goa State Rural Livelihood Mission (GSRLM), Department of Rural Development, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD).

The visit provided participants with practical exposure to the ARZ–WISH social enterprise model, demonstrating how livelihood initiatives can support women through the transition from rehabilitation to economic independence and social reintegration. The session highlighted the role of sustainable livelihoods in building confidence, dignity, financial independence, and long-term resilience.

As part of the visit, participants toured the Paper Unit, Laundry Unit, AVNI Stitching Unit, and Printing Unit, gaining an understanding of how different enterprise units are planned and managed. They observed production processes and learned about workflow management, quality control, inventory and record maintenance, teamwork, customer requirements, pricing, and day-to-day business operations.

The programme also included interactive discussions and presentations, where mentors reflected on the practices observed at WISH and explored how similar approaches could be adapted within SHGs in their communities. Discussions focused on moving SHGs beyond savings and credit activities towards sustainable, market-oriented enterprises that can generate regular income and employment opportunities for women. The exposure visit provided the mentors with practical insights into enterprise management, financial discipline, market linkages, quality standards, and sustainable livelihood development, strengthening their capacity to guide SHGs towards building viable and resilient enterprises.shg

On 17th June 2026, ARZ hosted an interactive orientation and field visit at its WISH office in Vasco, Goa, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Organized as part of a GIPARD training initiative, the session aimed to sensitize a cohort of fifteen civil servants—comprising Office Superintendents and Section Officers from various state departments—on the ground realities of Commercial Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and survivor rehabilitation.

Unpacking the Reality: The Mukti Model and Systemic Challenges

The session commenced with a comprehensive presentation unpacking the structural mechanics of human trafficking. ARZ highlighted that CSE operates as an organized crime relying on highly lucrative, secretive networks continuously fueled by client demand and profit-driven intermediaries.

The presentation walked the officers through the psychological stages of a victim’s journey—moving from intense Resistance, into survival-driven Adaptation, and finally to a state of internal resignation or Acceptance caused by intense stigmatization.

Data specific to the Goa context underscored the magnitude of the issue:

• An estimated 10,000 individuals are engaged in commercial sexual activities in the state.
• The illicit trade generates an approximate daily revenue of 10 Crore INR within Goa alone.
• Demographically, rescued victims in Goa comprise 59.6% Indian nationals (spanning states like Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal) and 40.4% foreign nationals (primarily from Nepal, Kenya, Bangladesh, and Uganda).
• High-traffic commercial hospitality spaces (hotels, lodges, and guest houses) represent the primary venues for physical abuse, accounting for 43 reported cases.

The briefing also emphasized the legal framework provided under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA), 1956, outlining the intersectional roles of the Police, Magistrates, Protective Homes, and supportive NGOs in handling searches, safe intermediate custody, and rehabilitation.

Rebuilding Lives: A Guided Tour of WISH Upstream Solutions

Following the presentation, the civil servants were given a guided walkthrough of the WISH (Women’s Initiative for Self Help) facilities located right inside the office premises. The officers observed the functional setups designed to deliver permanent economic exits for survivors:

1. The Tailoring Unit: Where survivors repurpose damaged materials and revive traditional handwork, translating broken elements into beautiful, marketable goods.
2. Swift Wash Laundry Services: An industrial-scale facility where the literal and symbolic process of cleansing serves as an active medium for psychological healing and trauma recovery.
3. Paper Products Production Area: Where survivors gain technical skill sets, manufacturing high-quality paper goods to secure financial independence and sustainable livelihoods.

Reflections and Action: The Feedback Session

The program concluded with an open feedback session where the civil servants shared that they were deeply impressed by WISH’s sustainable livelihood units for fostering financial independence. The experience significantly deepened their understanding of the complex psychological trauma and structural barriers survivors navigate during recovery. Moving forward, the officers brain-stormed actionable ways their respective departments could assist, suggesting options like incorporating WISH-manufactured products into government procurement channels and strengthening cross-departmental labor and welfare safety nets.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, ARZ conducted a community awareness activity through POTI—Protection of Ocean, Trees & Inhabitants. The initiative successfully emphasized the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Reducing Plastic Waste

As part of the awareness campaign, community members were actively encouraged to reduce their plastic consumption and adopt eco-friendly alternatives in their daily routines. To support this shift, families in the community received free reusable cloth bags.

These bags highlight a sustainable lifecycle, featuring:

• Repurposed Materials: Made entirely from upcycled items like old clothes, bedsheets, and fabric waste.
• Dual Impact: Beyond keeping the environment cleaner, the production of these cloth bags directly supports livelihood opportunities for women and survivors of trafficking.

Our Continued Commitment

The initiative beautifully demonstrated how simple, everyday actions like reusing materials and minimizing waste can drive meaningful environmental change.

Together, we can protect our environment, reduce waste, and build a more sustainable future for everyone.Protecting Oceans, Preserving Forests, Empowering Lives.

Earlier this week, a team meeting at WISH transformed into an impromptu celebration when “S,” one of the beneficiaries, walked into the room holding a brand-new smartphone. With a smile full of pride, she shared that she had purchased it entirely on her own terms completely from the savings she accumulated through her work at WISH.

There was no loan and no borrowed money involved; it was just her own hard-earned income. Looking at the team, she proudly stated: “This is from my hard work, earned with respect.”

A 24-Year Journey from Trauma to Triumph

For the ARZ and WISH team, this milestone represents something far more profound than the purchase of a mobile device:

• The Past: The team has known S for over 24 years, back when the primary concerns surrounding her were basic safety, health, and psychological recovery from the trauma she had experienced.
• The Present: Today, she stands as a strong, healthy, and completely financially independent woman.

This is what true healing looks like. When survivors are consistently provided with comprehensive psychosocial support, dignified work, and a steady income, they regain the confidence to make their own financial decisions, save for the future, and rebuild their lives on their own terms.

How Simple Support Transforms Lives

WISH extends its deep gratitude to the numerous businesses that choose to purchase its products and services. Every single corporate order directly contributes to creating vital, long-term livelihood opportunities for women who are actively rebuilding their lives after facing severe violence and exploitation.

Ultimately, an item like a paper bag may seem like a simple product on the surface. But in the hands of a determined survivor, it becomes:

• A smartphone purchased with absolute dignity.
• A major financial savings goal successfully achieved.
• A personal dream fulfilled and a life completely transformed.

 Every order creates opportunities. Every opportunity creates change.

ARZ was invited to conduct an interactive awareness session by ICDS Mormugao under the Directorate of Women & Child Development, Government of Goa, as part of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative. The event brought together adolescent girls, parents, and community members.

The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Ms. Severina Pereira, CDPO, Ms. Deepali Dessai, Ms. Mukta, and Ms. Ekrupa Mahale. This was followed by an inspiring group song performed by the teachers of Sector V, Mangor Hill, setting a positive tone for the event.

Flying with Both Wings: A Message of Opportunity

The session opened with a simple yet powerful question:

 “If a bird has two wings, can it fly with only one?” The ensuing discussion served as a powerful reminder that a society can only truly progress when both girls and boys are given equal opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. To bring this message to life, the team shared a story about a 19-year-old girl with hearing and speech impairments. Despite facing significant barriers, she embraced vocational training opportunities through ARZ and joined the livelihood programme at WISH. Over time, her confidence, skills, and independence grew remarkably, demonstrating how opportunity, inclusion, and belief can completely transform a girl’s life.

Focus Areas of the Interactive Session

The core discussion focused on equipping the community with knowledge and actionable safety tools, highlighting:

• Valuing the Girl Child: Ensuring equal respect and growth opportunities.
• Education and Empowerment: Championing learning and professional growth for girls.
• Building Safe Spaces: Creating secure environments at home, in schools, within the community, and online.
• Personal and Cyber Safety: Navigating modern digital and physical challenges safely.
• Community Role: The collective responsibility of parents and neighborhoods in protecting young girls.

Engaging Quiz and Key Takeaways

To reinforce these critical concepts, Ms. Rupa Keny, Mukhya Sevika, conducted an engaging quiz. Participants enthusiastically answered questions centered around vital safety mechanisms and the core pillars of the BBBP scheme:

Three enthusiastic participants who provided the correct answers were awarded Beti Bachao umbrellas as prizes.

Our Continued Commitment

The vibrant participation of girls, parents, teachers, and ICDS staff reflected a deep, shared commitment to building a world where every girl feels safe, respected, heard, and empowered to achieve her dreams.

Together, ARZ and ICDS Mormugao reaffirm their dedication to ensuring that every girl child is not only protected and educated but also given the confidence to thrive. When we empower a girl, we strengthen a family. When we educate a girl, we transform a community. When we protect a girl, we build a safer future for all.

Arz recently organized “MILAAP,” a state-level consultation dedicated to strengthening and streamlining the repatriation processes for foreign victims of human trafficking rescued from exploitation. Held at the ICG in Goa and facilitated by Mr. Arun Pandey and Ms. Juliana Lohar from Arz, the consultation served as a unique collaborative platform to address the complex operational and structural dimensions of cross-border rehabilitation and reintegration.

Moving Beyond Administration to True Reunion

The word MILAAP means “Reunion,” signifying the ultimate objective of the repatriation process: the safe, dignified, and respectful return of survivors to their families and home communities. The consultation brought together a diverse range of 35 key stakeholders—including law enforcement, anti-human trafficking units (AHTUs), immigration authorities, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), Child Welfare Committees, government shelter homes, and civil society organizations. Discussions centered around a critical shift in perspective: viewing trafficked persons through a protection lens rather than treating them as immigration offenders.

Learning from Regional Realities: Goa, Maharashtra, and West Bengal

The core of the consultation featured three thematic panel discussions, mapping out distinct regional insights and field experiences:

• The Goa Experience: Ms. Juliana Lohar from Arz presented historical data showing that between 2020 and 2025, the organization rescued 152 victims of trafficking, including 30 foreign nationals from Kenya, Bangladesh, Nepal, Uganda, Bhutan, and Uzbekistan. Law enforcement and shelter perspectives were shared by Ms. Nutan Verenkar (AHTU, North Goa) and Ms. Sumedha Belokar (Apna Ghar), highlighting operational struggles such as escort shortages, funding constraints, and communication delays.

• The Maharashtra Framework: Representatives including Ms. Leena Jadhav (Rescue Foundation), Mr. Nilesh Shinde (SLATCU), and Ms. Nishigandha Bhawal (Navjeevan State Protective Home) highlighted interstate coordination and institutional care. They underscored the deep psychological impact of prolonged waiting periods on survivors and emphasized the necessity of robust psychosocial support, counselling, and vocational training.

• The West Bengal Paradigm: Veteran practitioners Ms. Tapoti Bhowmick (Sanlaap) and Ms. Baitali Ganguly (Jabala) traced the historical evolution of formal repatriation mechanisms, discussing standard operating procedures (SOPs), changing trafficking patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the utilization of technology in rescue operations.

Charting the Way Forward

The consultation concluded with a unified call to action to address systemic barriers and prevent re-trafficking. Moving forward, the participating stakeholders collectively advocated for:

1. Streamlined Protocols: Developing standardized repatriation protocols, timeline controls, and faster embassy coordination for nationality verification and travel documentation.

2. Dedicated Resource Pools: Establishing localized emergency funds to facilitate immediate repatriation and safe escort arrangements.

3. Continuum of Care: Expanding post-return monitoring, economic empowerment, and sustainable livelihood support so that repatriation does not end at the physical border crossing.

Our Commitment to Survivor-Centred Justice

Arz and its partner networks collectively reaffirm that cross-border repatriation must always prioritize the fundamental rights, safety, and long-term well-being of survivors. By fostering stronger inter-agency and bilateral collaboration, we remain committed to ensuring that every rescued survivor can return home with the dignity and security they deserve.

The second edition of ‘ARZ Madhle Divas’ [My Days at ARZ], a Marathi book authored by Dr. Rupesh Patkar, psychiatrist and mental health professional, was recently released in the presence of activists from Goa and Maharashtra.

The book reflects Dr. Patkar’s journey, experiences, and learnings from his long association with ARZ since 2008 and his work in the field of mental health. Through his writings, he shares his experiences of working closely with women trapped in prostitution and victims of sexual exploitation, while highlighting the importance of mental health care, rehabilitation, and social reintegration.

In the newly released second edition, Dr. Patkar further elaborates on rehabilitation programmes and discusses the employment opportunities created for victims at WISH, emphasizing the importance of empowering survivors towards independent and dignified living.

The book was formally released by Shashikant Punaji, renowned poet and current Chairperson of the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

‘ARZ Madhle Divas’ is available at ARZ Vasco and WISH Mapusa at a cost of Rs. 300/-. The book offers meaningful insights into mental health, rehabilitation, and the journey towards social change and empowerment.

A two-day State-Level Consultation was organized bringing together volunteers and representatives from 10 districts of Maharashtra, including members from the media, legal fraternity, trade unions, NGOs, and social activists. The consultation served as an important platform for collective dialogue and action on the issue of sex trafficking in Goa and Maharashtra.

The discussions focused on understanding the existing realities of sex trafficking, identifying gaps and challenges in current intervention mechanisms, and exploring ways to strengthen support systems for survivors. Participants shared field experiences, legal perspectives, and community-level challenges while collectively reflecting on the need for stronger coordination and implementation of anti-trafficking measures.

At the conclusion of the consultation, participants collectively decided to launch the MUKTI Movement in Maharashtra and Goa. The movement aims to sensitise communities about sex trafficking, advocate for the effective implementation of Anti-Trafficking laws, and build stronger systems of support for survivors. The initiative also seeks to function as a collective support network for victims and survivors by promoting rehabilitation, protection, empowerment, and access to justice. Through collaboration and sustained advocacy, the MUKTI Movement aspires to strengthen community participation in the fight against human trafficking and create safer environments for vulnerable individuals.

Sanjana (name changed) was enrolled in the tailoring course conducted at WISH in 2024. Coming from a broken marriage, she had experienced severe emotional trauma that deeply affected her mental health. She was undergoing medication and regular counselling sessions at ARZ during this period. At the time, Sanjana was extremely withdrawn, spoke very little, struggled to remember tasks, and would even forget her way home on certain occasions.

Through continuous counselling, support, and skill-based training, gradual changes began to emerge in her life. After successfully completing the tailoring course, Sanjana became confident and independent enough to start working and supporting herself and her minor son.

Life continued to bring challenges when her son developed a gaming addiction and spent a significant amount of her hard-earned money. However, instead of reacting with anger or hostility, Sanjana handled the situation with patience and maturity. With guidance and care, she helped her son overcome the addiction, and today he has shown noticeable improvement in his academics and overall behaviour.

Sanjana’s transformation has gone beyond financial independence. She has become more aware, responsible, and socially conscious. Recently, she identified a case of children facing neglect in her community and immediately reported the matter to ARZ. The organization is now working towards supporting the children’s education and facilitating their school admission. Sanjana’s journey reflects resilience, healing, and the powerful impact of continuous support, counselling, and livelihood opportunities in helping individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence.

For the past three years, ARZ – Anyay Rahit Zindagi has been supporting vulnerable youth above 18 years of age through hotel management and hospitality training, helping them develop skills, confidence and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The programme follows a structured journey from identification to employment and continued support.

Our Process

1. Identification & Counselling
ARZ Community Mobilisers and Field Workers identify young people who may benefit from livelihood opportunities. Interested students are counselled to understand their abilities, interests and career goals, and are introduced to different hospitality departments such as Food & Beverage, Front Office, Bakery, Housekeeping and Food Production.

2. Registration & Interview Preparation
ARZ supports students with registration and documentation and prepares them for hotel interviews. Students receive guidance on communication, self-introduction, grooming, professional behaviour and workplace expectations. Counsellors also work to build their confidence and overcome hesitation.

3. Interview & Placement Support
ARZ staff accompany students for interviews and follow up with hotel HR teams regarding selection and joining. Selected students join as trainees and gain practical experience in professional hospitality environments, including reputed hotels such as Alila Diwa and Marriott, depending on available opportunities.

4. Accommodation & Financial Support
ARZ assists students in finding suitable accommodation close to their workplace. During the one-year training period, students receive a monthly stipend of ₹8,000 to support them while gaining practical work experience.

5. Continued Follow-Up
ARZ conducts fortnightly follow-ups after placement to monitor attendance, performance, workplace adjustment, emotional well-being and accommodation concerns. Counselling, motivation and guidance are provided whenever challenges arise.

Learning from Experience

Former students who are now working in the hospitality industry also interact with new students and share their experiences. Their journeys help new students understand workplace realities, overcome concerns and stay motivated to pursue their careers.

From Vulnerability to Sustainable Livelihood

ARZ’s approach goes beyond training and placement. By combining career counselling, skill development, interview support, workplace placement, financial assistance and continued mentoring, the programme helps young people build confidence and sustain employment. Through this initiative, ARZ aims to transform vulnerability into skills, confidence, employment and sustainable livelihood opportunities.