NRI Representation in Parliament – Committee On External Affairs Discusses Proposal

New Delhi : A proposal to provide Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) representation in Parliament was discussed on Tuesday during a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs. The suggestion was made in light of the growing NRI population and their distinct concerns, news agency PTI reported citing sources.
During the meeting, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda referred to countries like Italy, which reserves seats in its legislature for citizens living abroad, to advocate for NRI representation. The Lok Sabha MP from Harana’s Rohtak stated that such a move could address diaspora issues more effectively.
The Standing Committee, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, examined various issues related to the Indian diaspora. Tharoor described the session as a “detailed and thorough discussion” involving four organisations working with NRIs. “MPs were very engaged, and it was a lively exchange with many questions and answers,” he told PTI.
Proposals presented during the meeting included a suggestion from Kerala-based Norka Roots to train workers based on foreign labour market needs. This approach aims to streamline skilled migration and curb illegal immigration attempts, a participating MP noted.

Organisations attending the meeting included Norka Roots (Kerala), Punjab’s Department of NRIs Affairs, People of Indian Origin Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PIOCCI) and the Centre for Diaspora Studies at Gujarat’s Central University.
The Ministry of External Affairs informed the panel that a bill addressing emigration issues is under consideration. Tharoor stated that state governments have requested to be consulted during the drafting process.