Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
British Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio and Madhu Mishra, Senior Adviser (Economics, Climate & Development) at the British High Commission, called on Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh at Punjab Civil Secretariat-1 in Chandigarh on Tuesday.
During the meeting, Dr. Ravjot Singh held detailed discussions with the British delegation on issues concerning the Punjabi diaspora in the United Kingdom and NRIs maintaining close ties with Punjab. He reiterated that the Punjab Government is committed to continuous engagement with Punjabis living abroad and to addressing their genuine concerns in an effective and transparent manner.
A key focus of the discussion was the growing problem of fraudulent and unauthorised travel agents. Dr. Ravjot Singh urged Punjabis residing in the UK, as well as their families in Punjab, to remain vigilant against individuals making false promises related to visas, immigration, overseas travel and other services. He stressed that greater public awareness is essential to protect people from fraud and exploitation.
Minister also informed the British delegation that the Punjab Government will organise an NRI Milni in Bathinda on August 26. The event is intended to provide a direct platform for interaction between the government and the Punjabi diaspora. He invited Punjabis living abroad, particularly those from Bathinda and adjoining districts, to participate in the programme and present their issues and suggestions directly before the state government.
The meeting also covered a range of concerns affecting Punjabis residing in the UK and NRIs connected with Punjab, including matters related to their continued association with the state and issues impacting their interests.
Both sides agreed on the need to further strengthen communication and cooperation on matters concerning the Punjabi diaspora, highlighting the importance of sustained engagement between Punjab and its overseas community.
