Nirmal,Dec.18(Abdul Majid): International Migrants Day was observed on Thursday at New Sangvi village in Mamda mandal of Nirmal district under the aegis of the Pravasi Mitra Labour Union.

Addressing the gathering, union state president Swadesh Parikipandla said the day is observed globally every year on December 18 by the United Nations and its allied agency, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), to recognise the contribution of nearly 272 million migrants worldwide, including over 41 million internally displaced persons.

He said that nearly one crore Indian workers are employed in construction, services and allied sectors in Gulf countries and are making a significant contribution to the nation’s economy by remitting millions of dollars in foreign exchange. However, he lamented that migrant workers continue to be denied due recognition and adequate welfare support.

Mr. Parikipandla expressed concern that governments have failed to introduce effective rehabilitation and reintegration schemes for Gulf returnee workers. He also pointed out that thousands of migrant workers die abroad every year due to harsh climatic conditions, mental stress and heart-related ailments, leaving their families in distress.

He emphasised that workers migrating to Gulf countries should undergo proper training, obtain necessary certification and insurance coverage, and return home safely, which would benefit their families as well as the country.

The programme was attended by village sarpanch Ashwin Reddy, deputy sarpanch, panchayat secretary Anasuya, ward members, union coordinator Kommu Geetha, leaders Sushila, Gangadhar and Rajeshwar, besides a large number of Gulf returnees, families of migrant workers and villagers.