Non Resident Keralites to get welfare scheme identity cards

Thiruvananthapuram: Non resident Keralites who drive the economy of this small state can keep their chins up as a bevy of welfare programmes are being worked out for their benefit. These measures would be implemented by Roots Norka, a state-owned organisation that looks after the welfare of non-resident Keralites (NRKs).

To set the ball rolling, all non residents in Malappuram district would be issued an identity card, which would also double up as an insurance as well as discount card. The scheme will be extended to all other districts in Kerala in a phased manner. The distribution of identity cards in Mankada was completed July 19.

This card will act as an insurance card, where in the case of accident or death of an NRK, the dependent would be entitled for Rs.100,000. NRKs can also use this card as a discount card at selected shops in the state.

 As per the available figures, over two million Malayalis are settled abroad, with 90% working in various Middle East countries. Once the distribution of identity cards is completed the exact number of NRKs would come to light.