The Forum’s role extended beyond safeguarding the well-being of Kannadigas; it also sought to entice expatriate Kannadigas to invest in their home state
A resounding call has been made by Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Kannadigas to rejuvenate and fortify the inactive NRI Forum, ensuring comprehensive support for Kannadigas overseas during times of need. A recent report from indiaherald.com sheds light on this pressing demand.
The inception of the Non-Resident Indian Forum, a decade ago, aimed to extend a helping hand to Kannadigas venturing abroad for travel, education, and various pursuits, as well as those settled overseas who encounter challenges. The Forum’s role extended beyond safeguarding the well-being of Kannadigas; it also sought to entice expatriate Kannadigas to invest in their home state.
This vision led to the formulation and publication of Karnataka’s NRI Policy in 2016, which successfully piqued the interest of Kannadigas living abroad to consider investments within the state. The NRI Forum’s operations thrived until 2018, after which it grappled with an unfortunate cessation of government funding. Presently, the forum is under the purview of the Chief Minister, but the absence of a designated Vice-Chairman, coupled with a dearth of staff below the appointed Member Secretary, has rendered the NRI Forum inactive.
The fervent plea by NRI Kannadigas for the revival and reinforcement of the NRI Forum underscores the urgency to reinstate this vital lifeline for Kannadigas abroad. By breathing new life into the Forum and reestablishing its active presence, the government can effectively fulfill its duty to safeguard and support its citizens scattered across the globe
The repercussions of this dormant state NRI Forum became starkly evident when the state government encountered substantial challenges in repatriating Kannadigas stranded abroad amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, during the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Kannadigas residing in affected regions faced arduous struggles to return home. The endeavor to repatriate these individuals was frequently intricate and demanding. The appointment of a Vice-Chairman to the state’s NRI Forum, along with its revival, could significantly expedite the process of safely bringing Kannadigas back to their home state.
The fervent plea by NRI Kannadigas for the revival and reinforcement of the NRI Forum underscores the urgency to reinstate this vital lifeline for Kannadigas abroad. By breathing new life into the Forum and reestablishing its active presence, the government can effectively fulfill its duty to safeguard and support its citizens scattered across the globe.
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