Bhubaneswar, Aug 4: In a landmark initiative aimed at addressing distress migration, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo inaugurated the state’s first Mobile Migrant Resource Centre at Krushi Bhavan here on Monday.

The mobile van, designed to reach migrant-prone areas, marks a collaborative effort between the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Migrant Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MMTF).

The Mobile Migrant Resource Centre will operate across five vulnerable blocks in Ganjam and Kendrapara districts, offering vital information, support, and emergency assistance to migrant workers. A toll-free helpline — 1800-345-7885 — has been launched to provide round-the-clock guidance and aid.

Speaking at the event, Singh Deo, who also chairs the high-level Task Force on migration, emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering women, youth, and returning migrants through skill development and employment programs. “Our goal is to make them self-reliant by creating livelihood opportunities in their own communities,” he stated.

Principal Secretary of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee highlighted the replicable nature of the initiative, calling it a model for structured and sustainable migration management.

The inauguration was attended by key dignitaries including Labour Commissioner Indramani Tripathi, Protector of Emigrants Sunil Shah, and senior officials from FAO, IOM, WASAN, SMRC, and the Department of Labour and ESI.

This mobile centre is expected to play a pivotal role in reducing distress migration and building resilience among Odisha’s migrant population.

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