Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 30 (NationPress) Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday urged the reimagining of the State as a 'Global Kerala', emphasizing that Keralites residing abroad have contributed significantly to the State's society, culture, and progress, much like those living in Kerala.

While addressing the Loka Kerala Sabha, the Chief Minister articulated that the development of a New Kerala necessitates that all Keralites, both in the State and abroad, work together in harmony.

According to Chief Minister Vijayan, the Loka Kerala Sabha has become the foremost democratic platform for Keralite expatriates to express their aspirations for Kerala's future.

Although the initiative faced skepticism initially, public acceptance has increased as its effective performance became evident.

He remarked that even the Union government has recently cited the Loka Kerala Sabha as a commendable model for other States.

In a global context, CM Vijayan noted that India, similar to China, has one of the world's largest diaspora populations.

Engagement with expatriates could significantly bolster national development, he stated, stressing that the Union government should transcend symbolic gestures and implement concrete strategies for diaspora integration.

He drew comparisons with China, illustrating how that nation harnessed its overseas population to drive its economic and technological advancement.

He mentioned China's renowned program that facilitated the return—whether temporary or permanent—of overseas professionals to enhance knowledge-based sectors, research institutions, and universities.

Similar initiatives have emerged from the Loka Kerala Sabha and could help Kerala transform into a knowledge society.

These diaspora-related projects, he indicated, should be integrated into Kerala's Fifteenth Five-Year Plan commencing in 2027–28.

In reviewing the follow-up actions from prior discussions, the Chief Minister noted that out of 28 feasible proposals identified by the Loka Kerala Sabha Standing Committee, 10 have already been implemented, with 13 currently underway, while five proposals are in discussion with the Ministry of External Affairs.

He detailed various initiatives launched by the State, including the Pravasi Mission aimed at economic reintegration, entrepreneurship, and the rehabilitation of returnees, as well as NORKA Care, a pioneering global health and accident insurance scheme for expatriates in the country.

Efforts have also been made to combat overseas recruitment fraud through a dedicated NORKA police station, along with the introduction of a student migration portal, overseas help desks, and mental health support services.

Addressing the rising global uncertainty and increasing intolerance towards migrant communities, especially in Western nations, CM Vijayan highlighted that the home government's responsibility intensifies during such times.

“It is our duty to protect and support our diaspora,” he affirmed, adding that expatriates must also maintain robust connections with Kerala and be ready for reintegration upon their return.