In fulfillment of a promise made in their 2023 election manifesto, the Karnataka government has discussed the creation of a separate ministry dedicated to Non-Resident Indian Kannadigas (NRKs).
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara told this during the legislative assembly session on Wednesday. He welcomed a delegation of NRIs from over 15 countries who were present at the Vidhana Soudha to witness the proceedings.
The delegation, which included representatives from Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Australia, Singapore, and Western Asian countries, had appealed to the state government for financial aid and to establish a dedicated ministry to address their concerns.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded positively to their request and agreed to establish a separate ministry for NRIs in the state, following the Kerala model. Kerala has a dedicated Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department, which provides various services and support to the state's NRK community.
Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department:
Established in 1996, NORKA (Non-Resident Keralites Affairs) helps bridge the gap between Keralites living abroad and the Kerala government. This first-of-its-kind department in India addresses issues NRKs face, strengthens their connection with their homeland, and even aids returning NRKs with rehabilitation. NORKA Roots, launched in 2002, is a crucial link between NRKs and the government, ensuring their voices are heard and concerns addressed.
What will the new ministry focus on?
The new ministry in Karnataka is expected to focus on addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by NRKs (Non-Resident Indian Kannadigas), such as attracting investments and expertise from the NRK community for state development, streamlining access to services and grievance redressal for NRKs, and fostering cultural connections between NRKs and their homeland.
The implementation details of the new ministry, including its structure, functions, and timeline, are still being finalized. The announcement has been welcomed by the NRK community, who see it as a positive step towards recognizing their contributions and addressing their concerns.