USA: The proposal to grant Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) representation in India's Parliament gained traction during a meeting of the External Affairs Parliamentary Committee. The growing size and unique concerns of the Indian diaspora were central to the discussion. Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda highlighted examples from other nations, such as Italy, which reserves legislative seats for citizens living abroad, to support the idea of NRI representation. This, he argued, would better address their specific issues.

The Standing Committee, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, explored various matters related to the diaspora. Following the session, Tharoor remarked to PTI, "We engaged in a detailed and comprehensive dialogue with four organizations connected to the diaspora. MPs actively participated, asking numerous questions and offering insights."

According to sources, the organizations involved presented practical proposals, including one from Kerala suggesting tailored skill development programs to meet the demands of foreign job markets. This approach could streamline the migration process for skilled workers and mitigate illegal immigration attempts.

Representatives from Norka Roots (Kerala), the Department of NRIs Affairs (Punjab), the People of Indian Origin Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PIOCCI, Delhi), and the Centre for Diaspora Studies (Central University of Gujarat) participated in the discussions.

Additionally, the Ministry of External Affairs informed the panel that an emigration-related bill is currently under government consideration. Tharoor added that state governments have requested to be included in the consultation process regarding the proposed legislation.