Videsh Sampark, a government programme started by the Ministry of External Affairs in India, is gaining momentum. The objective of the programme is to work closely with the State governments and inform them about the Ministry’s programmes for overseas Indians, focussing on migration and mobility, passport and consular initiatives, investment promotions and diaspora issues.

Under Videsh Sampark, six outreach programmes have been organised in partnership with the State governments of Karnataka, Kerala, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
Uttarakhand joined the fray recently at its outreach programme that saw the participation of authorities of the State government, business representatives, Chambers of Commerce, and overseas recruiting agencies from Uttarakhand.

The programme was led by Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, in charge of overseas Indian affairs, along with Radha Raturi, Chief Secretary of the Uttarakhand government, in Dehradun, the State’s capital.

A presentation by the Ministry projecting the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand, its favourable location as a travel destination, and nature’s bounty on display through its forests and wildlife, showcased the potential for international tourism and investments within the region.

Through Videsh Sampark, the Ministry of External Affairs coordinates with several Indian States and Union Territories to facilitate the promotion of exports and tourism in order to attract sizable overseas investments and expertise. – editor@nrifocus.com