Mangaluru: Social worker, lawyer and NRI community activist, advocate PA Hameed Padubidri, based in Riyadh, welcomed the announcement regarding the establishment of a secretariats for NRKs (Non-Resident Kannadigas). Hameed stated that the announcement has brought great happiness and renewed hope among lakhs of Kannadigas residing abroad, especially in Gulf countries, who have long contributed significantly to Karnataka’s economy through remittances and investments.He pointed out that NRKs continue to face several issues, including lack of proper government representation, rehabilitation challenges, legal and documentation difficulties, commercial, civil and criminal cases including jail imprisonments abroad, labour-related grievances, healthcare and insurance concerns, and the absence of dedicated welfare mechanisms for expatriate families.“This is a historic and much-needed step towards addressing the long-pending concerns of overseas Kannadigas,” Hameed said. He urged the state govt to immediately initiate concrete measures, including establishment of necessary infrastructure, allocation of sufficient funds, introduction of welfare schemes, grievance redressal systems and appointment of a dedicated minister to oversee the affairs of NRKs.He further emphasised the importance of creating district-level NRI facilitation centres, legal aid cells, emergency helplines, investment support desks including rehabilitation programmes for returning expatriates. He stated that such initiatives would strengthen the bond between overseas Kannadigas and their home state, while encouraging greater investment and participation in Karnataka’s development.He reiterated that MLC Arathi Krishna be appointed as the minister in charge, considering her active involvement, accessibility and commitment towards the welfare of overseas Kannadigas.