SELF RELIANCE THROUGH EMPOWERMENT OF NON-RESIDENT KERALITES

SELF RELIANCE 1

THROUGH EMPOWERMENT OF

NON-RESIDENT KERALITES

Always with NRks

SELF RELIANCE THROUGH EMPOWERMENT OF
NON- RESIDEBNT KERALITES
Chief Editor
Harikrishnan Namboothiri K
Chief Executive Officer
Executive editor
Ajith Kolassery
General Manger
Editor
Nafih M
Design/Layout
Anilraj
Printer and Publisher
Chief Executive Officer
NORKA ROOTS, NORKA CENTRE,
Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram
For Free distribution
Nov.2021
Phone: 0471 2770500, 2333339.
e-mail: [email protected]
Website: WWW.norkaroots.com
1800 425 3939 TOLL FREE NUMBER WITHIN INDIA
2 8802012345 INTERNATIONAL MISSED CALL SERVICE.

3

4

Always with NRks 5

6

Always with NRks

NORKA

In order to ensure the welfare of the Non Resident Keralites, redress their grievances,
safeguard their rights, rehabilitation of the returned migrants and facilitate invest-
ments in the state, the Non Resident Keralites Affairs Department was set up by the
Government of Kerala in 1996. Since then, NORKA has been playing a vital role in the
lives of NRKs, supporting them in times of need and lending them a helping hand in
every possible means.NORKA is the first department of its kind in India. NORKA is
a single window agency to fulfil an assurance given by the Government of Kerala to its
expatriate community. It aimed at the strengthening of relation between the NRKs and
the Government of Kerala and the culmination of efforts for finding out solution to prob-
lems faced by NRK community. It is also an attempt at institutionalizing the administrative
framework.

NORKA ROOTS

NON RESIDENTS KERALITES
NORKA DEPARTMENT
WELFARE BOARD
NRI COMMISSION
LOKA KERALA SABHA
OVERSEAS KERALITES INVESTMENT & HOLDING LTD

7

NORKA ROOTS

NORKA has established a field agency - NORKA-ROOTS in the year 2002 that acts
as a nodal agency for all the matters relating to NRKs and the mission is to establish
a robust and vibrant institutional framework to facilitate and support Government of
Kerala in addressing the NRKs grievances, safeguarding their rights, rehabilitating the
return emigrants, enabling them to invest in and benefit from the opportunities in Kerala.
It implements schemes for the welfare of NRKs and channelizes their expertise and
resources for their benefits.

NORKA AID PLAN SCHEMES

Santhwana

Flagship distress relief scheme intended to provide time bound financial support to
returned emigrant. The scheme can be availed for medical treatments, death assistance,
marriage assistance, purchase of physical aids to combat disability etc. The NRK who
applies for the Santhwana scheme should have worked abroad for not less than two years.
The annual family income of the applicant should not exceed 1.5 lakh rupees. A returnee
can apply to meet serious medical treatment expenses such as cancer, heart surgery,
chronic/serious kidney disease, brain hemorrhage, paralysis, severe disabilities due to
various accidents, Death Compensation, Marriage assistance, to buy any aids to overcome
the physical disability such as artificial limbs, wheel chairs, crutches etc.

Features
• Death compensation- UptoRs. 1 Lakh
• Medical Assistance- UptoRs. 50,000/-
• Marriage Assistance - Rs. 15,000/-
• Disability relief assistance - UptoRs. 10,000/-

Application can submit via online

PravasiBadratha

Covid 19 pandemic and the subsequent lock down, suspension of flights and other
restrictions imposed various countries across the globe had seriously affected the
employment of the NRKs leaving them jobless and stuck in the state. This has created
a serious impact in the State since we share the largest diaspora community in the
country. Due to the uncertainty prevailing across the globe, a sustainable livelihood
for the return emigrants needs to be extended to reintegrate them back to the society.

8

Always with NRks 9

10

Always with NRks

Norka Department is to formulate a rehabilitation package - Co-ordinated Re-integration
Programme for NRKs - PRAVASI BHADRATHA to provide financial support for developing
income generation opportunities for the returnees. In the budget 21-22 an amount of Rs.
5000 lakhs is provided for launching a Co-Ordinated Reintegration Program for NRKs.
Objective
To provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to NRK return community through self-
employment ventures.

• It is estimated that around 14 lakh NRKs have returned to their home state during the
pandemic period and following are the rehabilitation proposals envisaged under the
scheme.

• Nano Enterprise scheme through Kudumbasree Mission
• Micro enterprise Assistance scheme through Co-Operative sector banks and other

financial institutions including nationalised banks/scheduled banks.
• Interest subvention for MSME (NRK enterprises) through KSIDC

Pravasi Bhadratha - PEARL

This scheme is envisaged to address the weaker/low profile category of NRK returnees
with less savings and income. It has been proposed to implement the scheme through
Kudumbasree Mission to address the targeted group with a sustainable livelihood.
Following are the features of the scheme.

• Revolving Fund for Individual/ group livelihood activities.
• Assistance to Micro Enterprises/Livelihood Activity Groups through

community lend soft loans.
• Interest free loans upto Rs. 2 Lakh.
• Repayment with equal installments within two years.

Pravasi Bhadratha - MICRO

This component is envisaged for assisting retuned NRKs in setting up Micro and small
scale industries. The scheme is proposed to be implemented through KSFE (Kerala
State Financial Enterprises Limited), Primary Co-Operative Societies, Kerala Bank, other
pravasi Co-operative societies and other financial institutions and other nationalized banks.
Following are the features of the scheme.

• Loans upto Rs. 5 lakhs.
• Capital subsidy @ Rs. 25% of the loan component upto a maximum of Rs. 1 lakh.
• Interest subvention for initial 4 years @ 3%.

11

This scheme under Pravasi Bhadratha - MICRO is proposed to be implemented through
through the branches of Kerala State Financial Enterprises for supporting the NRK
returnees in setting up Micro and small scale industries.

Interest subvention for MSME (NRK enterprises) through KSIDC

CM’s Special Assistance Scheme (for MSMEs/Start-Ups/Micro Enterprises & NRKs) is the
scheme of KSIDC providing loans in the range of Rs. 25 lakhs to Rs. 2 crores per enterprise
and Working Capital Loan Scheme for Micro Enterprises. This component is envisaged for
providing interest incentives for the beneficiaries under this scheme. It is extended to NRK
returnees/NRK Investors from other States in India.

Rehabilitation of Return Emigrants (NDPREM)

Attractive rehabilitation package that aims at promoting entrepreneurship for returnees
and also help them to continue to live in a dignified manner. Subsidy for entrepreneurships
having a seed capital of uptoRs 30 lakhs is a key feature of NDPREM. For prompt
repayment, 15% subsidy on capital and 3% rebate on interest of loan are offered for the
first 4 years. NORKA ROOTS have tied up with 16 major banks through 5,642 branches.
Application can submit via online.

Skill Upgradation & Re-integration Training for NRKs

Norka Roots’ Skill Upgradation& Reintegration Training Program aims at the upgradation
of the skills of young Keralites’ work force and reskilling of returnee migrants to meet the
challenges in the overseas employment market. It has been designed as additional skilling
program of short duration for a maximum of 3 months to those having basic technical
qualifications. Training and skilling programmes are being imparted in areas of technology,
soft skill development, communication etc. The skill up-gradation programme is
implemented through the selected institutions like ITIs, Polytechnic Colleges, LBS Centres,
ICT Academy of Kerala, Nursing Institute for Career Enhancement (NICE Academy)
& ASAP for imparting training to the prospective as well as returnee emigrants. Areas
focused:- ICT, nursing, language, other technical courses.

Pre-departure Orientation Programme
Awareness Campaign on illegal Recruitment & Visa Check

It intended to make overseas job aspirants aware about general job situations abroad and
to impart essential information relating to visa, emigration rules, employment contract,
travel formalities etc. It emphasizes on bridging the gap between the existing skill sets
of the job aspirants with that of the expected capability in terms of knowledge, skills &
practical exposure of the overseas job market.

12

Always with NRks 13

14

Always with NRks

Global Contact Centre

It intends to disseminate information on various schemes/projects implemented by
Government and NORKA ROOTS, redress grievances of NRKs, create awareness
among emigrants and prospective migrants against illegal exploitation, migration
etc and act as a frontline service facilitator/one point client interaction point of
NRKs. It is also envisaged to provide need based information and assistance
related to NORKA Department, NORKA ROOTS, Kerala Pravasi Welfare Fund
Board, NRI Commissionthrough the proposed helpline.

Toll Free No :- 1800-425-3939 (within India)
:- 0091 8802 012345 (International , Mised call service)

Facilities: SMS, live chat, call

Emergency Ambulance Service

The service aids financially backward NRKs with a free ambulance service, either
while returning home for treatment or while transporting a deceased loved one back
home. The scheme is made operational at 4 airports in Kerala and Coimbatore,
Mangalore airports.Application can be submit to norkaemergancyambulance@
gmail.com with the passport number of the expatriate, place of arrival, date,
relative’s name and phone number.

Pravasi Legal Aid Cell

The broad activities coming under this programme are legal aid including legal
advice, filing of cases, legal representation, awareness campaign by conducting
orientation programmes, support, assistance, facilitation etc. Norka Roots have10
Norka legal consultants across GCC countries

UAE - 5 (Dubai 2, sharjah 2, Adu Dhabi 1)

Saudi Arabia - 2

Qatar -1

Kuwait - 1

Oman -1

Application can be download from website and the duly filled application shall be
shared to [email protected]

Norka Business Facilitation Centre

NBFC is an initiative for offering comprehensive support services to NRKs and
returnee emigrants on investment opportunities in Kerala. It acts as a single window

15

to identify and assist NRKs as well as returnees to start and expand their business
in Kerala by providing expert knowled ge and specialist guidance to the investors.
For assistance and counseling

Contact: 0471 2770534
e-mail : [email protected].
or can visit: NBFC 2nd Floor, Norka Centre, thycaud, Trivandrum.

Job Portal and Overseas Recruitment

Jobs Norka, a professionally managed Job Portal offers overseas employment
to prospective jobseekers of Kerala. It’s an online platform for employers to hire
quality talent and for job seekers to land their dream job. It is a forum built to
bridge the gap between employers and job seekers, enabling them to exchange
information quickly, effectively and inexpensively. It enables employer to select the
proficient candidate for their organization based on merit and acute authenticity.
Job seekers can access through various job openings existing with the registered
employers through www.jobsnorka.gov.in.

Emergency Repatriation Fund

On account of civil unrest and natural calamities, NRKs have tobe evacuated from
their places of work or residence, in collaboration with MEA. Also Tie up with Air
India to cashless of mortal remains of NRKs.
Application shall be send to [email protected] with passport number of the
expatriate, place of arrival, date, name of the relative and phone number

New initiative for Market Research,
pre and post recruitment Assistance and skilling

This intiative is formed with the objective of rationalizing the process of recruitment,
training, skill development, post place assistance, legal assistance and insurance
support to facilitate both the employer and the employee in the labour market, it is
also proposed to integrate all recruitment agencies and activities of Government

Global Kerala Cultural Festival

Conduct of Global Kerala Cultural Festival would help to showcase the best of
Keralas culture and heritage. It also provide NRKs an opportunity to connect with
their home state, this festival can also be utilized as a platform for displaying the
talent available in NRK communities of all ages.

16

Always with NRks 17

18

Always with NRks

Loka Kerala Sabha

The Government of Kerala constituted Loka Kerala Sabha (LKS) as a common
platform for Keralites living across the globe; it is envisaged as a platform for the
cultural, socio-political and economic integration of these myriad Keralas with
the home Kerala. The Government of Kerala believes that the knowledge and
experiences of the non-resident Keralite, in her capacity as a Global Citizen, can
be an asset to the development of the State.The sabha comprises selected NRKs,
elected members of Kerala legislature and the Parliament members representing
Kerala

NORKA ROOTS Financial assistance to Pravasi Sangham

PravasiSangham plays a leading role in spreading and creating awareness about
the schemes and welfare activities of NORKA Department among NRKs. It provides
platforms for the wellbeing of the NRKs as emigrants and returned after serving the
foreign countries. NORKA ROOTS extends its helping hand and to co-operative
societies formed Pravasi groups for the welfare of NRKS.
The one time financial assistance for each group is Rs. 3 lakh.

NORKA ROOTS Directors Scholarship Scheme

The scheme aims to extend financial help for higher education of children of
poor section of the NRKs and returnees against the background of the greater
role played by the NRKs in the economic development of the State of Kerala.The
annual Income of Returnee Migrant (NRK) should be less than Rs. 1.5 Lakh. The
Scholarship shall be availed for maximum two children of NRK.

The scholarship is granted to PG Courses & Professional Degree Courses.
Application shall be send online.

Loka Kerala Kendram

It will be a Kerala Cultural Centre meant to strengthen the connection between
NRKs and Kerala Culture. It will have some features of the Indian International
Centre. The centre will promote Kerala cuisine, art and culture of Kerala. It will give
special privileges to its members, especially NRK members who invest and share
the cost of building up the place.

19

NORKA ROOTS Services

CERTIFICATE ATTESTATION

NORKA ROOTS is the single agency authorized by the Government of India
to undertake attestation of educational certificates as per the guidelines of the
Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD). For the sake of convenience
of the people of Kerala at large, this has been done through three Certificate
Authentication Centres functioning at Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and
Kozhikode. At present, NORKA ROOTS submits certificates to the Embassies of
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar for attestation.
With India’s accession to the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961 abolishing
the requirement of legalization of foreign public documents, Government of India,
Ministry of External Affairs at CPV Division, Patiala House started issuing Apostilles
with effect from 29th August 2007. Apostille stickers will be issued on the personal
documents like birth, death, affidavits, power of attorneys, marriage etc and
educational documents like degree, diplomas, matriculation and secondary level
certificates. However, commercial documents are excluded from the purview of
the convention. Now, Norka is providing Home Attestation through the above three
regional centres and selected NORKA ROOTS district cells.

RECRUITMENT

NORKA ROOTS is a registered recruitment agency under the Ministry of
Overseas Indian Affairs and is carrying out overseas recruitment. NORKA
ROOTS started the recruitment process as per the procedures laid down by the
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs.  Norka recruits Nurses, Doctors, Technicians
and Housemaids for various Foreign Employers across the globe with focus in
GCC countries. Transparency, Quality recruitment service, Minimum recruitment
charges and corrupt free recruitment process are the hallmarks of Norka
Recruitment wing.More than 1300 nurses and more than 500 housemaids have
been recruited to gulf countries.

20

Always with NRks 21

22

Always with NRks

NRK INSURANCE CARD (within India)
/ PRAVASI ID CARD (Abroad)

PRAVASI ID card is the single stop for a non-resident Keralite to connect with the
Kerala Government. This multi-purpose digital photo identity card entitles every
NRK to avail all services and facilities offered by NORKA Roots, now and in future.
PRAVASI ID card comes with an add-on of Personal Accident Insurance coverage of
upto a maximum of Rs. 2 Lakhs. The card has a validity of 3 years.Application can be
submitted online with a registration fee of Rs.550/-

NORKA  PRAVASI  RAKSHA  INSURANCE POLICY

This has been launched with a purpose of providing Critical Illness Care for the
Non Resident Keralites residing or working abroad. The valid term of the policy is
one year. The policy holders will get an insurance coverage of Rs 1 Lakh for Critical
Illness. The policy also has an add on benefit of Personal Accident  Insurance
coverage  to the tune of Rs.2 Lakhs for life and a maximum of  Rs.1 Lakh  for
permanent disability. Pravasi   residing  or  working  abroad  with a valid  passport 
and  visa for  at least 6 months  of age group from  18-60 years can apply for
NPRI policy. Application can be submitted online with a registration fee of Rs.550/-
(including premium)
      

 Critical illnesses covered under the policy:

     1. Cancer            2. Kidney failure(end stage renal failure)

     3. Primary pulmonary arterial Hype 4. Multiple Sclerosis

     5. Major organ transplant 6.  Coronary artery by-pass grafts

     7. Aorta graft surgery 8.  Heart Valve surgery

     9. Stroke 10. Myocardial Infarction (First heart Attack)

     11. Coma                                         12. Total Blindness             

     13. Paralysis

23

Regional Offices

TRIVANDRUM

The Center Manager NORKA-ROOTS Certificate Authentication Centre
NORKA-Center,Thycaud, Ph.0471-2329950, E-mail: [email protected]

ERNAKULAM

The Center Manager NORKA-ROOTS Certificate Authentication Centre
06th floor, Commercial Building MG Road Metro Station, Pin:682035

Ph: 04842371830, 2371810, Email: [email protected]

KOZHIKKODE

The Center Manager NORKA-ROOTS Certificate Authentication Centre,
1st Floor,Vikas Building Link Road

Ph. 0495-2304882,2304885, Email: [email protected]

Norka Roots Cell

KOLLAM: Civil Station, IMG Hall, 2nd Floor, Pin-6990013, Ph: 0474-2791373
ALAPPUZHA: 2nd Floor Civil Station Annexe, Opp. Boat Jetty Alappuzha, Ph: 0477-2969100

PATHANAMTHITTA: Civil Station.Pin-689645, Ph: 0468-2229951
KOTTAYAM: Civil Station, 4th Floor Pin-686002, Ph: 0481-2580033
THRISSUR: Civil Station, 2nd Floor Pin-680003, Ph: 0487-2360707
IDUKKI: Civil Station, Painavu, Pin-685603, Ph: 04862-233140
PALAKKAD: A Block, 1st Floor Civil Station, District Collectorate, Pin-678001, Ph: 0491-2505606
MALAPPURAM: Annexe Building, Civil Station Pin-676505, Ph: 0483-2732922
KANNUR: Annexe Building, Civil Station Pin-670002, Ph: 0497-2765310
WAYANAD: Civil Station, Kalpatta, Pin-673121, Ph: 0493-6204243

KASARAGOD: Civil Station, Pin-671123, Ph: 04994-257827

NORKA ROOTS, NORKA CENTRE, design: anilraj

Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram, Phone: 0471 2770500, 2333339.
e-mail: [email protected], Website: WWW.norkaroots.com

1800 425 3939 TOLL FREE NUMBER WITHIN INDIA
8802012345 INTERNATIONAL MISSED CALL SERVICE

Always with NRKs

Printed and Published by CEO Norka Roots on behalf of Govt. of Kerala.

24 Number of copies: 2000, For free distribution. November 2021.
Printed at Orange Printers, Gandhariamman Kovil Junction, Thiruvananthapuram