NORKA Roots Renews Agreement with SBI for NDPREM Scheme

Thiruvananthapuram: Non Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) Roots has renewed its agreement with the State Bank of India (SBI) for the implementation of the NORKA Department Project for Returned Emigrants (NDPREM scheme), which provides business loans to Keralites who have returned after working abroad. The agreement was signed at the NORKA Centre in Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram by the Chief Executive Officer of NORKA Roots and the Deputy General Manager of SBI. The renewed agreement will be in effect for three years.

Through this partnership, the services of the NDPREM scheme will continue to be available across 1,200 SBI branches in Kerala. The scheme is intended to support the rehabilitation of returning emigrants by helping them start new enterprises or expand existing ones. It is being implemented through 17 banking and financial institutions in the state, including SBI.

Keralites who have worked abroad for at least two years are eligible to apply. The scheme supports ventures in sectors such as taxi services, MSME-based operations, agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. Loans of up to Rs. 30 lakh are provided. Those who repay on time are eligible for a 15% capital subsidy and a 3% interest subsidy.

Applications can be submitted through the NORKA Roots website at www.norkaroots.org. The agency also provides free services including entrepreneurship training and preparation of project reports for submission to banks.

Further information is available through the NORKA Global Contact Centre via the toll-free number 1800 425 3939 for calls from within India, or +91-8802 012 345 for missed call service from abroad.

NORKA Roots is the field agency of the Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs, Government of Kerala. It was established to provide assistance to Malayalis living abroad and to support their reintegration upon return, through welfare programs, legal aid, skill development, and financial support for self-employment.