Call to remove hurdles in way of NRI investment

NEW DELHI: Strongly favouring removal of hurdles in investment by non-resident Indians, several distinguished personalities on Saturday said dual citizenship scheme would be a boon to the country.
Speaking at the valedictory session of the 22nd International Congress of NRIs here, they said NRIs should also consider investment in core sectors and areas like health care besides industrial and business activities.
Former President KR Narayanan said investment in hospitals, dispensaries and similar projects would greatly benefit poor and neglected sections of society.
Planning Commission Deputy Chairman KC Pant said several agencies are in place to ensure that NRIs do not face any problem while participating in various activities.
He said the decision on dual citizenship to people of Indian origin would greatly benefit the country economically but necessary precaution should also be observed taking security aspects in this regard into consideration.
He said the government is keen to bring NRIs close to the country and the dual citizen proposal is a signal to them that they are really wanted here.
During the open house session, speakers sought simplification of procedures and dismantling of bottlenecks to make investment in different sectors easy and trouble-free.
Over 300 NRIs from 52 countries attended the two-day Congress, organised by the NRI Welfare Society.