An urgent appeal to save girls from traffickers

“SPID has been my home for as long as I can remember. I want to continue my studies, become independent, and build a better future for myself.”
— Nikhat(Name changed), SPID Young Adult

Nikhat’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the life-changing impact of long-term care and protection. Admitted to the SPID Children’s Centre at just two-and-a-half years old, she was brought into the Home sixteen years back to ensure she grew up in a safe and nurturing environment, protected from the risk of exploitation and provided with opportunities that every child deserves.

Since then, SPID has been her home. Here, she has received shelter, nutritious meals, quality education, healthcare, emotional support, and the guidance needed to grow into a confident and capable young woman.

Nikhat’s mother was trafficked from West Bengal and, despite difficult circumstances, has remained in touch with her daughter over the years. While Nikhat spent time with her mother during school vacations in the past, she later shared that she did not feel safe in the home environment due to the behaviour of another adult living there. After careful counselling, discussions with the family, and prioritising Nikhat’s safety and well-being, it was decided that she would continue to stay at the SPID Kishori (adolescent) Home, where she could pursue her education and personal development in a secure environment. Today, her mother visits her regularly, and they continue to stay connected through monthly visits and phone calls.

Growing up at SPID has shaped Nikhat into a responsible, compassionate, and confident young adult. She is known for being cooperative, following the Home’s routines, and willingly supporting younger children. She actively participates in group activities and contributes positively to the Home community.

Education has been central to Nikhat’s journey. She successfully completed Grade 12 in 2026 and has remained a sincere and dedicated learner throughout her schooling. Alongside her formal education, she has participated in computer training, remedial education, and extracurricular activities that have strengthened both her skills and confidence. She is now in the process of enrolling in a graduation programme through IGNOU, with career counselling and admission guidance being provided by the SPID team to help her take this important next step.

At SPID, children and young people receive holistic support that extends beyond education. Every child is provided with access to healthcare, emotional well-being services, life-skills education, and opportunities to build confidence and independence within a safe and caring environment.

More than 120 children of women in sex work are currently enrolled at SPID, receiving regular schooling and remedial support. The centre provides a safe space that keeps them away from high-risk environments, reducing their vulnerability to trafficking and sexual exploitation while ensuring their education and overall well-being. Nikhat’s journey reflects what becomes possible when a child is given consistent care, protection, and opportunities to thrive. From a vulnerable beginning to completing her schooling and preparing for higher education, she is building a future defined not by her circumstances, but by her aspirations and determination.

With your continued support, children like Nikhat can grow up in a safe and protective environment, away from the high-risk settings where they are vulnerable to trafficking and sexual exploitation. Without the care and protection provided by SPID, Nikhat would have remained exposed to the unsafe environment where her mother's clients visited, putting her at significant risk of abuse, exploitation, and being drawn into the cycle of commercial sexual exploitation. Through SPID, she is able to continue her education, build confidence and life skills, and work towards a future of dignity, independence, and opportunity. Every contribution helps provide safety, protection, guidance, education, healthcare, and hope creating lasting pathways towards dignity and self-reliance.

Nikhat’s confidence grows with every academic milestone she achieves. As she prepares to begin her journey into higher education, she stands as a powerful reminder that when children are given sustained care, protection, and encouragement, they can overcome adversity and build futures filled with possibility.

With Deep Gratitude,
Team iPartner India