Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has reassured Tamils overseas that his administration is committed to serving the diaspora. Addressing the 'Tamil Kanavu' (Tamil dream) function in Cologne, Germany, Stalin underscored that the state government is at all times prepared to offer all possible help to Non-Resident Tamils (NRTs) whenever required.
The Chief Minister said that the Tamil language serves as a unifying force, connecting people despite geographical distances. He highlighted the various welfare schemes his Dravidian model government has initiated for the welfare of NRTs. At the recent World Tamil Diaspora Day 2025 event in Chennai, Tamils from a remarkable 62 countries attended, he said.
Stalin detailed several key initiatives, including the establishment of the Non-Resident Tamils Welfare Board and a toll-free helpline. The government has also created a revolving fund to support Tamil organisations abroad and provides financial assistance and pensions to the families of Tamils who die accidentally while working in other countries.
The CM provided specific examples of the government’s efforts to rescue and assist Tamils facing crises abroad, listing the successful repatriation of citizens from countries such as Ukraine (524), Sudan (253), Israel (126), Bangladesh (220), and Cambodia-Thailand-Myanmar (119). He also mentioned providing a US-based NRT with ₹10 lakh to bring their child to Chennai for medical treatment. Additionally, financial aid of ₹10 lakh was given to Mubarak Ali from Myladuthurai, who fell ill in Thailand, and ₹5 lakh was provided to the families of each of the seven Tamil victims of the recent fire accident in Kuwait.
In a poignant gesture, the government also provided ₹10 lakh to install a memorial stone in Thailand to honour Tamil prisoners of war who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War II. "The reason for mentioning all these initiatives is to underscore that in Tamil Nadu you have the Dravidian model government and your Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin to support and embrace you at all times and under any situation," he asserted.
Stalin also spoke about the 'Vergalai Thedi Thittam' (In Search of Roots Scheme), which helps children of the Tamil diaspora connect with their heritage. Since its launch in 2023, 292 individuals from 15 countries have visited Tamil Nadu through the programme.
The Chief Minister noted the state's significant growth since his government took office and mentioned his own trips to countries like the US, Japan, and Spain to secure investments. He encouraged business-minded Tamils abroad to consider expanding their ventures to their home state. He also urged those working in large corporations to highlight the investment opportunities available in Tamil Nadu to their company leadership.
Also read: TN CM Stalin embarks on Europe trip to woo investors
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