In a landmark move, the Punjab Government’s Department of NRI Affairs is set to hold India’s first-ever ‘Online NRI Milni’, offering a direct digital platform for Non-Resident Punjabis across the globe to connect with the state government and voice their concerns.
The historic virtual meeting is scheduled for Monday at 11 am, and will be chaired by NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, who will personally listen to grievances and respond to issues raised during the session. The innovative initiative marked a significant shift in the way governments engage with their diaspora, removing the geographical barriers that have long hindered direct dialogue.
“For the first time, Punjabis living abroad won’t have to travel thousands of miles just to have their voices heard,” said the Minister, adding “This virtual platform is a milestone in governance and outreach.”
To ensure a streamlined process, NRIs have been encouraged to send their complaints in advance via WhatsApp (90560 09884). This will enable the Department to prioritize and address maximum issues during the online session. The meeting will be conducted via a secure video conferencing platform, accessible through a link provided and publicized along with meeting code and password.
Dhaliwal emphasized that while the Punjab Government has previously organized in-person NRI milnis, these often required NRIs to be physically present in Punjab, a challenge for many. “This virtual model is a solution that empowers overseas Punjabis to engage with us in real-time without the burden of travel,” he said.
The Minister also underlined the government’s commitment to resolving long-standing issues faced by the diaspora, including property disputes, legal complications, and bureaucratic delays.
The “Online NRI Milni” is expected to set a precedent for other Indian states in terms of inclusive and technology-driven governance. It also reaffirmed Punjab’s strong connection with its global diaspora and the government’s willingness to innovate for better service delivery.