A delegation from the Workers India Federation (WIF) met with Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, at the Vatican Embassy in New Delhi on August 24.
The meeting marked a significant milestone for WIF, which serves as the official organization of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India's (CBCI) Office for Labour.
WIF, established in 2010, is a registered body that operates nationwide, advocating for the rights and welfare of workers, particularly in India’s unorganized labor sector.
The organization works closely with the Church and grassroots communities to address labor issues and promote the dignity of work.
"It is a historic day for WIF, representing the Office for Labour as the first commission to have the honor of meeting with Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli," said Priti Rose Kullu, WIF’s National Joint Secretary from Odisha. Her statement captured the joy and significance of the encounter.
The 11-member delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with the Apostolic Nuncio, sharing updates on WIF’s activities and future programs. "We are deeply honored to have had this opportunity to present our agenda, experiences, and initiatives to Archbishop Girelli.
He was eager to listen to the personal stories of each representative," Kullu added. "No words can fully capture the excitement we feel on what is undoubtedly one of the most important days for our organization."
The CBCI Commission for Labour was established in 1971 to empower the working class, especially those in the unorganized sector. WIF plays a crucial role in this mission by coordinating efforts between the Church and people’s organizations at the grassroots level.
WIF’s governing body consists of 12 elected representatives, including priests, nuns, and lay leaders from its affiliated national and regional movements.
Under this leadership, WIF has implemented key initiatives such as the "Mazdoor Suraksha Yojana (MSY)," a social security scheme for workers, and an online employment exchange.
The WIF headquarters is located in New Delhi, with its programs facilitated through various CBCI-affiliated labor movements, trade unions, and network groups across the country.
Guided by the principles of the Gospel and the teachings of Christ, the CBCI Commission for Labour advocates for the dignity of workers and the rights of the working class.
It focuses on educating workers and leaders on labor laws, rights, and responsibilities, while promoting fair wages and social justice.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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