Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS)

Bengaluru, Feb 22: During the zero hour, JD(S) MLC B M Farooq emphasized the pressing need for the state government to prioritize the welfare and development of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Kannadigas residing in various global regions, particularly in the Gulf nations.

Farooq underscored the proactive measures taken by states like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana in addressing the concerns of their respective NRI populations. He urged the Karnataka government to follow suit, emphasizing the significant impact such initiatives could have on the state's economy.

Highlighting the profound contributions of NRI Indians, who ventured to the Gulf nations in pursuit of employment opportunities four decades ago, Farooq said, “As the NRI Indians came to the Gulf nations four decades ago in search of employment, revolution has occurred in various parts of Karnataka in the economic, cultural and educational sectors. There are around 1.34 crore Indians working in Saudi Arabia and other gulf countries. Out of the 88.8 lac NRI Indians are in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman. In Saudi Arabia itself, there are 24 lac NRI Indians. Many families of Karnataka have settled there. That too the income of Saudi Arabia is vital for many families of coastal Karnataka region.”

In light of these realities, Farooq urged the state government to take decisive action to support and uplift the NRI Kannadiga community, recognizing their invaluable contributions to both the global economy and the prosperity of Karnataka.