Let NRI Industrial Parks come up

In earlier times, Malayalis who left their homeland to work abroad and send money back were simply called "Dubai-kaaran" (man from Dubai). Later came terms like "Gulf Malayali," "Singapore Malayali," or "American Malayali." Today, they are collectively known by one name — Pravasi Malayali (expat Malayali). There are very few countries in the world where a Malayali hasn’t gone to earn a living. Crossing oceans, enduring hardship, and surviving on memories of home, every Malayali living abroad sends money home — not just soaked in sweat, but also carrying the sweetness of dreams. Many of these NRIs, after returning home to spend the rest of their lives peacefully with family, dream of starting a small business using their hard-earned savings. But what they often encounter instead are government hurdles and red tape. There have even been tragic cases where individuals, broken by harassment from government officials, took their own lives.

Even to start a modest business like a motor workshop or car wash center, one must go through a maze of clearances and permissions from various government departments — from the panchayat to environmental agencies. Approvals, inspections, and NOCs become nightmarish obstacles. It’s important to note that not every expat is a millionaire. However, collectively, their financial contribution to the state is enormous. According to a recent report by the Reserve Bank of India, NRI deposits in Kerala’s banks have crossed Rs 3 lakh crore — exceeding the state’s annual budget allocation. Kerala ranks second in the country in terms of NRI deposits, just behind Maharashtra.

The government could explore the idea of establishing independent NRI Industrial Parks where the accumulating NRI deposits in banks can be effectively utilized. These parks would ensure the safety of investors' savings, offer a streamlined single-window system for setting up businesses, and provide essential infrastructure — including electricity and water — at subsidised rates. The problem arises when the government tries to redirect these NRI investments into unrelated public projects — leading to dissatisfaction and mistrust.

Following the model of existing IT parks, the government should identify land and develop infrastructure for such NRI Industrial Parks. Research should be conducted to identify mid-sized businesses that don’t require heavy capital, and top priority should be given to creating the facilities these businesses need. Let entrepreneurs construct buildings suitable for their specific ventures, without external interference.

Electricity and water provided here should not be taxed at the higher rates typically imposed on industries. Above all, a Business Facilitation Centre must be established within the park, allowing entrepreneurs to obtain all necessary approvals without having to visit multiple government offices. If the government becomes a partner in these parks, banks will also be more willing to provide loans. If these parks include product manufacturing units, the government should ensure proper marketing support and create expert advisory panels to guide entrepreneurs. This way, the thousands of crores lying idle in banks could be transformed into hundreds of thriving enterprises — not only giving life to the dreams of returning expats but also marking a bold new step in Kerala’s industrial development.