Thiruvananthapuram, 02 March (H.S.):A 24-hour special helpline launched by NORKA Roots under the direction of the Chief Minister’s Office has received 541 calls from Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) and their family members amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
According to official sources, the helpline, set up to provide assistance, guidance and reassurance to expatriates and their relatives, recorded calls until 6 p.m. on Sunday. Of the total 541 calls, 188 were received from abroad, while 353 calls originated from within India, primarily from anxious family members seeking updates and support.
Among the overseas calls, the highest number came from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with 78 callers reaching out to the helpline. Qatar accounted for 49 calls, followed by Bahrain with 39. Kuwait reported 12 calls, while Oman and Saudi Arabia accounted for five and three calls respectively. Two calls were received from the United Kingdom.
Officials said the helpline was activated as a precautionary measure in response to growing concerns among expatriate communities in the Gulf region. Kerala has a significant diaspora presence in West Asian countries, and any geopolitical instability in the region often triggers widespread anxiety among families back home.
The feedback and concerns registered through the helpline were reviewed at a high-level meeting held at the NORKA Centre in Thycaud. The meeting was chaired by NORKA Department Secretary T.V. Anupama and NORKA Roots Chief Executive Officer Ajith Kolassery. Officials assessed the nature of the calls, the issues raised by expatriates and their families, and the need for further intervention or coordination with Indian diplomatic missions, if required.
Authorities reiterated that the helpline will continue to function round the clock to address concerns, provide verified information, and offer necessary assistance to NRKs during this period of uncertainty. The state government has assured that it remains vigilant and committed to the welfare and safety of the Malayali diaspora.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
