New project for rehabilitation of Gulf returnees

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarai Vijayan told the Assembly on Thursday that a new project would be drawn up for rehabilitation of Gulf returnees.

Replying to a Calling Attention by K. V. Abdul Khader (CPI-M), the Chief Minister said that assistance to returnees under  welfare scheme for them would also be increased.

Mr. Vijayan noted that the self-employment scheme implemented for Gulf returnees was not very efficient.

He said that the impact of lower oil prices had started to be felt in the employment sector. Many working abroad would eventually have to return. The attempt was to ensure maximum job opportunities.

He said that effective steps would be taken to solve the travel related problems of overseas Keralites.

Mr. Khader said that rehabilitation of Gulf returnees had become more important because many were losing jobs on account of economic slump and emphasis on jobs for locals in Gulf countries.