The Indian External Affairs Ministry yesterday launched the Global Pravasi Rishta portal and app to connect with the nearly 31.2-million strong Indian diaspora across the world.
Speaking at the launch of the portal and app, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said it aims to create a three-way communication between the ministry, Indian missions, and the diaspora.
"The government recognises the importance of Indian diaspora and has been engaging with them in various ways. One such innovative step is the global Pravasi Rishta portal and mobile app through which Government of India aims to connect with the overseas Indian community, not just ceremonially but at every step," he said.
Muraleedharan said the mobile app will be used by the diaspora and the Indian nationals, while the portal web interface will be used by the missions to enable the registration of Indian diaspora members i.e. NRIs, PIOs and the OCIs which is not just going to facilitate the Indian government to connect with the overseas Indian community but also facilitate NRIs, OCIs and PIOs community by connecting them to various new and existing government schemes benefiting them in various areas of interest.
"This portal and app will also assist during any crisis management and lend a helping hand to the NRIs and PIOs. The rishta portal will enable communication with the diaspora on a realtime basis and will have the ability to issue emergency alerts and advisories. It will also enable the diaspora to reach the consular officers and services in time of emergencies," he said.
The minister said the portal will not only contain useful information for the diaspora such as information on visa, passport, and other consular services but will also have information about various events organised by the missions and send invites to the diaspora members for greater participation.
