A  one-day conference on “Strengthening Maharashtra’s Response to Human Trafficking: Evolving Trends, Investigation and Survivor-Centric Approaches”was organised by Maharashtra Police in collaboration with ‘Prakruthi NGO’ on October 8, 2025 at the Auditorium, 7^th floor, Nishchaya Bldg, Byculla East, Mumbai. Total 200 participants including the officers and staff working in AHTUs of all 45 police units in Maharashtra attended the conference. The said conference was held in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

The session brought together senior police officials, judicial experts, and veteran social workers to enhance the state’s efforts against human trafficking and aimed at capacity building of the AHTUs. The program focussed on best investigation practices and prosecution strategies while handling crimes of human trafficking. It also emphasized a shift towards a trauma-informed and survivor-centric approach, integrating modern investigative techniques and ensuring robust victim care and rehabilitation.

The conference was inaugurated by Smt. Roshan Dalvi, Former Judge, High Court of Bombay, setting the context and outlining the critical objectives for strengthening the state’s anti-trafficking framework.

Investigative Expertise: Dr. P. M. Nair, a renowned expert on human trafficking and former DGP of Bihar Cadre, led two sessions covering “Dimensions, Trends & Investigation Aspects” and “Strategies & Good Practices in Investigations.” He emphasized on evolving trends in human trafficking, interrogation techniques, sensitive approach during handling of child victims, crime-specific investigation methodologies, use of technology and digital evidence in investigation of human trafficking cases.

The critical subject of victim support during Rescue and Post- Rescue was addressed by renowned social worker Ms. Preeti Patkar, Co-Founder & Director at Prerana, an organization known for its pioneering work in Mumbai’s red-light areas. Her session emphasized survivor-centered rescue planning, immediate care, inter-agency collaboration, and a trauma-informed response for victims.

Smt. Nayana Gunde (IAS), Commissioner, Women and Child Development Maharashtra State, provided a detailed overview of Government Schemes on Compensation and Rehabilitation. Her presentation highlighted application processes, inter-departmental coordination, and inspiring success stories of various governmental schemes.

Shri. M. K. Jadhav, Additional Sessions Judge, Mumbai, guided the participants on “Prosecution Strategies & Key Supreme Court Rulings.” The session covered applying key rulings, aligning policies, and improving conviction rates by following proper investigation procedure and also on the application of MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) in relevant cases.

Panel Discussion on Prevention and Collaboration

The training culminated in a high-impact panel discussion on “Prevention Strategies,” chaired by Smt.Aswati Dorje, ADGP, PCWC. The panel included Smt. Ragasudha R. DCP, Zone 4, Mumbai, and Smt. Rashmitha Rao, DCP, Zone 4, Nagpur City who discussed the work done by them in their respective units.The discussion was focused on Community-based prevention of  Human Trafficking, activation of vigilance networks, the crucial role of citizens in prevention of Anti Human Trafficking and inter-agency collaborations to create a unified front against traffickers.

The closing remarks summarized the key takeaways and set forth concrete next steps for implementation across the state. The program was hosted by retd. DySP Shri Madan Patil.

The success of the training reaffirms the Maharashtra Police’s commitment to adopting modern, coordinated, and compassionate strategies to combat human trafficking and to protect the rights and dignity of survivors.

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