Aizawl: A coordination meeting on humanitarian assistance for refugees residing in Champhai district was held on Thursday at the DC Conference Hall in Keifangtlang, bringing together officials of the district administration and volunteers’ organisations.
The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Aaquib, reviewed the implementation of PATHRISE Project 2026, an initiative aimed at providing protection and livelihood support to refugees from Myanmar as well as vulnerable members of host communities in Mizoram.
The discussions come amid a fresh influx of refugees into Mizoram following recent clashes in Myanmar, with reports also alleging that the Myanmar military junta carried out airstrikes on civilian areas, forcing more people to flee across the border.
Officials associated with PATHRISE Project 2026 presented reports on ongoing and proposed activities to support refugees and the local communities hosting them. Discussions included awareness programmes for refugees on important laws and regulations, as well as various activities carried out under the “Umbrella Protection” initiative, particularly those related to child protection and community welfare.
The project also focuses on providing psychosocial counselling and emotional support to people traumatised by conflict and displacement. Measures to ensure the safety of women and children, establish safe spaces, and prevent exploitation were also discussed during the meeting.
Officials said the initiative assists refugees in obtaining important documents, understanding their rights, and accessing aid provided by the government and NGOs. In addition to relief support, the project also seeks to help refugees achieve self-reliance through livelihood programmes, vocational training, and income-generating opportunities available in Mizoram.
As part of these efforts, beneficiaries are being provided financial assistance to start small businesses, while seeds and livestock are also being distributed to encourage farming and animal husbandry activities.
The meeting further discussed measures to strengthen harmony between refugees and host communities, while addressing potential economic and social pressures arising from the sudden influx of displaced people. Promoting understanding and peaceful coexistence between local residents and refugees was identified as one of the project’s major objectives.
Representatives from the Health Department also shared reports on medical assistance and healthcare services provided to refugees so far. Reports were also presented by volunteers’ organisations, including Zoram Entu Pawl, on their ongoing humanitarian efforts.
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