Tue Jan 21 10:44:29 UTC 2025: ## NRI Representation in Parliament Suggested at External Affairs Committee Meeting
**New Delhi, January 21, 2025** – A parliamentary committee on External Affairs has discussed the possibility of providing Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) with representation in Parliament. The suggestion, made during a Tuesday meeting chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, stems from the growing NRI population and the unique challenges they face.
Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda cited Italy’s legislative reservations for citizens residing abroad as a model for India. The meeting, which involved representatives from four diaspora organizations including Norka Roots (Kerala), the Department of NRIs Affairs (Punjab), PIOCCI (Delhi), and the Centre for Diaspora Studies (Gujarat), saw “lively and full discussion,” according to Mr. Tharoor.
The organizations presented several proposals, including a Kerala-based initiative to skill Indian workers based on foreign country demands. This, an MP noted, could streamline skilled worker immigration and curb illegal migration.
The Ministry of External Affairs informed the committee that a bill addressing emigration issues is under consideration, with state government consultations planned. Mr. Tharoor described the meeting as “detailed and thorough,” highlighting the MPs’ active engagement with the presented proposals.
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