In a significant show of support for Indian workers abroad, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited a labour camp in the Mina Abdullah area of Kuwait on the first day of his official visit. The camp houses around 1,500 Indian nationals working in various sectors, primarily in construction and services. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi interacted with a diverse group of workers, hailing from different states of India, and took the time to enquire about their well-being and working conditions.
The visit highlights the importance the Prime Minister places on the welfare of Indian workers in the Gulf region, a community that plays a crucial role in the economic ties between India and the Middle East. As part of his interaction, Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that Indian workers abroad are treated with dignity and respect.
Strengthening Welfare Initiatives
The Prime Minister’s visit to the labour camp is symbolic of the government’s ongoing efforts to address the needs of Indian workers globally. In recent years, the Indian government has implemented a range of technology-driven initiatives aimed at improving the lives of workers overseas. These initiatives include:
- E-Migrate Portal: A digital platform designed to streamline the emigration process and safeguard workers from exploitation.
- MADAD Portal: A grievance redressal system that helps Indian nationals abroad address issues ranging from employment disputes to legal matters.
- Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana: An upgraded insurance scheme that provides financial protection to overseas Indian workers in case of emergencies, including accidents and health issues.
The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude for the contributions of Indian workers, many of whom have sent remittances that have played a vital role in sustaining their families and communities back home. “The hard work and dedication of our people here in Kuwait is a source of immense pride for our nation. Your efforts strengthen the bond between our two countries,” said Modi during his address at the camp.
Acknowledging the Challenges
While the visit was largely positive, the Prime Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by migrant workers, especially in terms of living conditions, workplace safety, and legal protections. He assured the workers that the Indian government was continuously working with host countries like Kuwait to improve these conditions. Modi also mentioned that his visit would further strengthen bilateral relations and contribute to a more favorable environment for Indian workers.
Indian expatriates in Kuwait, numbering over a million, are an essential part of the workforce, particularly in the construction, healthcare, and domestic service sectors. The Prime Minister’s gesture was widely appreciated, with many workers expressing their gratitude for the government’s continued efforts to improve their welfare.
Enhancing India-Kuwait Relations
Prime Minister Modi’s visit is part of a broader diplomatic effort to enhance ties between India and Kuwait. The labour sector plays a central role in this relationship, and the government’s commitment to the welfare of Indian workers has become an essential pillar of India-Kuwait cooperation.
The visit also coincides with ongoing discussions about strengthening bilateral trade, investment, and people-to-people connections. Modi’s presence at the labour camp signals a strong message of solidarity and commitment to the welfare of Indian expatriates.
As the Prime Minister continues his tour of Kuwait, the focus remains on deepening India’s strategic partnerships in the region while prioritizing the welfare and rights of its overseas workers.