MORANG: Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Shraddha Shrestha, said that the government is acutely aware of the need to prevent human trafficking, recognizing it as a grave offense.

During the opening of a two-day seminar hosted by the Ministry and Maiti Nepal in Biratnagar, focusing on ‘Challenges of Human Trafficking and Exploitation in the Nepal-India Border Area’ on Thursday evening, she underscored the necessity for relevant organizations to enhance their collaborative efforts between the two nations to thwart such atrocious acts.

Minister Shrestha reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to implementing strategic initiatives aimed at the prompt rescue and safeguarding of trafficking victims. She announced that measures will be swiftly developed to avert the trafficking of women, which will be put into action.

Anuradha Koirala, Chairperson of Maiti Nepal, conveyed that the organization has been actively combating human trafficking for three decades, promoting public awareness, and aiding in rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

She highlighted that the ongoing trafficking of adolescent girls, driven by factors such as illiteracy, unemployment, and various lures, necessitates the collaboration and coordination of society, organizations, and governmental entities.

Nagesh Koirala, Mayor of Biratnagar Metropolitan City, acknowledged that human trafficking poses a significant challenge in Nepal, asserting that its prevention can be realized through cooperative efforts.