Punjab government to launch unique card for NRIs of Punjab origin

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government today decided to launch a unique card for NRIs of Punjab origin to enable them show their identity for any official work.

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, NRI Affairs Minister Bikram Singh Majithia and former Union minister B S Ramoowalia asked the NRI Affairs department to immediately work out details of the proposal and implement it at the earliest, an official release said.

Badal said Punjab has to involve NRIs in the process of development by assuring them total support of the state government and offering them legal support in their cases.

The Deputy Chief Minister gave approval for a unique NRI card to be offered to every NRI who would be able to apply for this card on the website of NRI department.

The card, besides giving identity to the NRIs for every official purpose, would assure quality medicare and discounts on shopping in Punjab. He asked PUDA to explore the possibilities of offering preference to NRIs in house allotment.

Majithia informed the Deputy Chief Minister that a comprehensive website and portal of NRI Affairs department has been finalised and would become operational next month.

Badal said a 24-hour NRI helpline would register complaints of NRIs from next month.

Expressing concern over forcible possession of properties of NRIs, Badal issued directions to initiate amendments in the law to ensure protection of their properties.

He asked the revenue department to explore the possibility of adopting properties of NRIs and giving them protection of the state, if the NRIs so desired.