New Delhi: The government is considering a proposal to establish a welfare fund for the benefit of emigrants.

The proposal envisages provision of welfare services to the emigrants at all stages, financial support to meet emigration expenses at the pre-emigration stage, on-site welfare during their stay abroad and need based rehabilitation services after their return to India.

The Welfare Fund is likely to be established during the financial year 2008-09,the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs said in a release.

Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojna is already being implemented to provide insurance safeguards to the emigrants against unforeseen exigencies.

The government has launched a helpline for emigrants and is implementing a scheme for skill upgradation and pre-departure orientation. A Council for Promotion of Overseas Employment is being set up.

The government is signing MOUs with the receiving countries for the protection and welfare of emigrants.

Source : PTI