The proposed district-level NRI meets are expected to improve communication between the government and the Punjabi diaspora and strengthen trust among overseas Punjabis who maintain strong ties with their home state
The Punjab Government plans to organise district-wise meetings with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to address their concerns and strengthen engagement with the Punjabi diaspora. Cabinet Minister Dr Ravjot Singh announced the initiative after chairing a high-level meeting of the state’s NRI Affairs Department in Chandigarh.
Dr Singh said the government will hold NRI meets in every district during the current year to ensure that overseas Punjabis can share their issues directly with officials. He added that the key aim is to reach out to NRIs proactively so they do not need to make repeated visits to government offices to resolve their concerns.
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Dr Ravjot Singh instructed departmental officers to handle NRI-related complaints and issues within a fixed timeframe
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He emphasised that the state government is committed to protecting the interests of Punjabis living abroad and ensuring that their problems are resolved on a priority basis
Dr Singh also highlighted that the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has taken steps to safeguard the rights of NRIs, especially in matters related to land and property in Punjab. Property disputes and encroachments have been long-standing concerns among overseas Punjabis, and the government aims to provide stronger legal and administrative support.
In addition, the minister directed officials to expedite the process for holding elections of the NRI Sabha, a representative body that helps voice the concerns of overseas Punjabis. He said the elections should be conducted soon and necessary actions should be taken without delay.
Senior officials from the NRI Affairs Department, police, and information and public relations departments attended the meeting, indicating a coordinated approach to addressing diaspora issues.
