Telangana plans to fight human trafficking on the ground with 18k workers

Hyderabad: A large-scale initiative is underway in Telangana to warn women about human trafficking, as many fall prey without realising they are being lured in. Officials are being trained to effectively convey the risks and necessary precautions.The Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP), under the department of rural development, is mobilising 18,000 grassroots workers — community resource persons and village organisation assistants — to educate the public, especially women's self-help groups, on how trafficking networks operate and how to recognise red flags."It can happen to any woman. Depending on her need, traffickers lay a trap. That's why women must stay cautious," Ranga Reddy district rural development officer L Sri Lath told TOI.Officials warn that vulnerable targets include orphaned minors, rural women seeking city jobs, and even those aspiring to enter the film industry. "Anyone with a specific need can be targeted," Sri Latha added.D Divya, chief executive officer of SERP, emphasised the need for preventive measures. "This initiative is crucial to stop trafficking before it happens," she said.Women are urged to be wary of too-good-to-be-true job offers, marriage proposals, or career opportunities. NGO Prajwala has compiled a 109-page guide detailing traffickers' tactics and safety measures.