Proposal aims to improve welfare services, emergency assistance and investment links for the global Kannadiga community
The Karnataka government is considering the creation of a dedicated ministry for Non-Resident Kannadigas (NRKs), a move that supporters say could significantly improve services for the state’s overseas community.
Speaking in an interview, Karnataka Legislative Council member Arathi Krishna said a separate ministry would provide a single point of contact for Kannadigas living abroad, helping them access faster support during emergencies while strengthening engagement with the state.
Krishna, who previously served as Deputy Chairperson of the NRI Forum of Karnataka, estimated that more than three million Kannadigas live overseas. While many professionals and entrepreneurs are based in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, a large number of blue-collar workers are employed across the Gulf region.
She said overseas Kannadigas face a wide range of challenges depending on where they live. Those in Western countries often encounter property disputes, fraudulent real estate transactions and matrimonial issues.
Workers in Gulf nations frequently deal with passport confiscation, contract violations, labour exploitation and financial hardship following job losses
According to Krishna, a dedicated ministry would coordinate more effectively with India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Indian embassies, enabling quicker responses to cases involving evacuations, labour disputes, repatriation of mortal remains and other consular matters. She added that the ministry could also encourage greater investment in Karnataka by connecting overseas Kannadigas with relevant government departments.
Krishna noted that Karnataka already has an NRI Forum but said it requires stronger institutional backing and sustained funding. During her tenure, the forum introduced the state’s first NRI policy, modelled on Kerala’s framework, and secured a dedicated budget, which she said is no longer sufficient to meet growing demands.
The proposal is under active consideration as part of the state’s broader efforts to enhance engagement with its global diaspora and provide more responsive support to Kannadigas living overseas.
