Formation of NRI Foundatiion approved

by Punjabnewswire4u (Balbir)

CHANDIGARH, SEPT 12

 The Punjab Government has given its approval in principal approval for the formation of ‘NRI Foundation’ to further expedite the welfare programs for NRIs and to resolve their grievances within stipulated time frame.   

            Presiding over a review meeting with the officials of Department of NRI and NRI Commission, NRI Affairs Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majtihia informed that Punjab Government has finalized the strategy to setup NRI Foundation, which would be, one of its own kind in the country. He said that the foundation would function on the state level headquarter, which further would also be interlinked with its district level committees. He said that foundation would be comprised of top educational institutions, associations, Non Government Organisations for the smooth functioning.

            Divulging details about the functioning of foundation, Mr. Majithia said that this foundation would issue unique NRI Cards to the Punjabi Diaspora, which would help them resolving their grievances within stipulated time frame. They would also be  provided requisite travelling information to the tourist from foreign countries. He said that foundation would also organize lectures of renowned members of Punjabi Diaspora in different educational institutions to educate the students about the culture, heritage and education system in foreign countries.

            Mr. Majithia also informed that Punjab Government has decided to establish district level NRI Committees and district level courts especially for NRIs within a year, to resolve their grievances. He said that these NRI Committees would also make aware the Punjabi Diaspora about the welfare schemes initiated especially for NRIs by the SAD-BJP Government.

            The Minister said that Punjab Government has also decided to prepare two separate special programs naming ‘Know Punjab’ and ‘Know Your Motherland’ for the young generations of Punjabi Diaspora apprising them about the rich culture, heritage,  historical values festivals and traditions of Punjab through CDs and Documentaries. He said that Technical Education and Industrial Training Department would impart professional skills to the students willing to study abroad. He said that these professional training programs would be of 6 months period so that Punjabi students do not face problems in finding employment on foreign lands.

            Mr. Majithia also directed the department for NRI Affairs to identify the NRIs along with their villages, who have contributed in social welfare works, so that their names and photos could be published in the directory of NRIs which is under process.