MUMBAI — Caritas India strengthened its safeguarding efforts through a two-day learning and exposure visit held in Mumbai on 5–6 December, bringing together members of its Internal Committee with leading practitioners from the Church and social service sectors.

The visit took place at the St Joseph Safeguarding Centre, where participants reviewed existing systems, identified areas for improvement and explored practical steps to strengthen a culture of safeguarding across the organisation.

Church leaders and safeguarding experts provided guidance during the programme, including Cardinal Oswald Gracias, who reflected on the development of safeguarding within the Church and underscored the importance of upholding both canon and civil law.

Caritas India representatives also presented their community-level safeguarding initiatives, outlining confidential mechanisms that allow individuals to raise concerns safely.

A key contribution was made by Sr Arina Gonsalves, RJM, a member of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors. She emphasised that safeguarding extends beyond children to include all vulnerable adults and highlighted the importance of legal compliance, thorough documentation, regular review processes and strong institutional systems.

Participants visited Nirmala Niketan College of Social Work and Vatsalya Children’s Home, where they observed safeguarding practices in educational and frontline child protection settings. The visits provided an opportunity to connect organisational policies with practical implementation.

The programme concluded with a call to continue strengthening safeguarding awareness and accountability across India and the wider Asia–Oceania region. Organisers said the experience reinforced shared responsibility and commitment, supporting Caritas India’s ongoing efforts to promote safe, respectful and accountable environments for all.