Kerala, known for its high rate of migration, especially to Gulf countries, has long relied on its Non-Resident Keralite (NRK) community for economic growth and cultural exchange. Recognizing the need to support and connect with its diaspora, the Government of Kerala established the NORKA (Non-Resident Keralites Affairs) Department, and under its wing, NORKA Roots was formed as a public sector undertaking. Among its many digital initiatives, the NORKA Department Project (NDP) Portal—accessible at https://norkaroots.org/login?pg=ndp—stands out as a major tool for registering and supporting returning and aspiring emigrants.
The NDP Portal is designed primarily for registration and data collection of Keralites who are working abroad or have returned from foreign countries. This system plays a key role in maintaining an accurate database of NRKs, which is critical for planning welfare schemes, emergency assistance, and skill development programs. The platform allows users to create an account, input personal and employment details, and stay connected with government support systems. The objective is not only to monitor migration patterns but also to build a bridge between the Kerala government and its vast global diaspora.
One of the most significant advantages of the NDP Portal is the structured way it enables returnee registration and reintegration support. Thousands of Keralites have returned to the state due to factors such as job loss, geopolitical instability, or health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this portal, these individuals can register for various rehabilitation programs, financial assistance, skill re-training, and entrepreneurial schemes facilitated by NORKA Roots. The data collected through the portal also helps policymakers address the socio-economic challenges faced by returnees and streamline the delivery of benefits under government initiatives.
In addition to aiding returnees, the NDP Portal also serves as a valuable resource for potential emigrants. Aspiring workers can register and receive guidance regarding foreign employment opportunities, legal migration processes, documentation, and training through accredited agencies. NORKA Roots, via the NDP system, ensures that migration is safe, legal, and informed. By preventing illegal recruitment and exploitation, the portal plays a vital role in ethical overseas employment and upholds the dignity of Keralite workers abroad. Furthermore, it provides information on language training, skill development, and orientation programs that enhance the employability of migrants.
In summary, the NORKA Roots NDP Portal is not just a registration platform—it is a comprehensive support system that reflects Kerala’s progressive approach to migration management. By connecting the government directly with Non-Resident Keralites and returnees, the portal ensures timely assistance, policy responsiveness, and long-term planning for Kerala’s global workforce. It highlights the state’s commitment to the welfare of its people, no matter where they are in the world. As the NDP Portal continues to evolve, it is expected to become an even more critical tool in shaping Kerala’s migration policies and enhancing the well-being of its citizens abroad and at home.
