Riyadh, March 8: A delegation from the Global Indian Organization (GIO) Riyadh met officials at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to discuss collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening community welfare and support services for the Indian diaspora living in Saudi Arabia.
During the meeting, the delegation briefed embassy officials on GIO’s ongoing initiatives in areas such as social services, community welfare, youth development, women empowerment, employment support, and digital literacy. The embassy officials appreciated the role played by community organizations like GIO and expressed their willingness to support initiatives that benefit the Indian community across the Kingdom.
GIO Riyadh President Preeti Chauhan highlighted the organization’s commitment to serving Indians living abroad and spoke about several community support initiatives undertaken by the group. She also raised the issue involving nearly 40 nurses who were reportedly misled by a recruitment agency, Tamkeen, regarding job placements. Chauhan sought guidance from the embassy on possible ways to extend support and assistance to the affected individuals.
Vice President Amit K. Kauntia briefed officials about GIO’s social initiatives, including blood donation drives, health awareness programs, and cultural activities organized for the Indian community in Riyadh. He emphasized that such initiatives help promote community welfare and unity among expatriates.
General Secretary Chakshu Shrivastava informed that GIO members have been actively guiding community members with travel and tour-related information, particularly in view of the current regional situation in the Gulf. He stressed the importance of timely awareness and reliable information for the safety of expatriates.
Sarvani Vidyadharani, representing the Science & Technology Council, discussed initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy among women and youth. She highlighted the importance of digital awareness, safe online practices, and technology empowerment within the community.
From the Youth Council, Shagufta Qureshi spoke about efforts to engage young members of the community and create awareness on responsible behaviour, safety, and social participation. She also emphasized the need for awareness campaigns addressing issues such as drug abuse among youth.
Ramesh Chaudhary, Executive Committee Member from the Jobs & Entrepreneurship Council, shared insights on employment guidance and entrepreneurship opportunities for community members. He also provided information about possible avenues and procedures that may help address concerns related to the nurses’ recruitment issue.
Embassy officials appreciated the proactive role played by GIO and highlighted that the embassy welcomes community volunteers to complement its ongoing efforts in areas such as youth awareness, women empowerment, labour welfare, and community support initiatives. They also emphasized the importance of spreading awareness among youth about issues such as drug abuse and other social challenges.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation between the Indian Embassy and community organizations to better support the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia.
GIO Riyadh also announced plans to expand its Executive Committee (ExCom) in the near future to bring in more active members who will work collectively to enhance community outreach and welfare activities across the Kingdom.
