Doha: The Centre for Indian Community (CIC) has expressed disappointment that the Kerala Budget 2026 did not adequately address the concerns and expectations of the expatriate community, which has played a vital role in the state's economic growth and social development for decades.

In a statement, CIC noted that expatriate Malayalis have made unparalleled contributions to Kerala's development through remittances and investments, and therefore expected the state budget to include clear and impactful measures aimed at their welfare, rehabilitation, investment promotion, employment support, and social security.

The organization pointed out that many expatriates continue to face challenges such as job insecurity, financial instability, healthcare concerns, and a lack of sufficient rehabilitation and entrepreneurship support for those returning to Kerala. Given these realities, CIC said greater importance should have been accorded to expatriate-related issues in the budget, especially since the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs portfolio is directly under the Chief Minister.

"Expatriates are not merely a source of foreign exchange earnings; they are key partners in Kerala's social and economic progress," the statement said, urging the government to give higher priority to the welfare, participation, and development aspirations of the expatriate community in future policy decisions and budgetary announcements.

CIC President R. S. Abdul Jaleel expressed hope that the government would introduce more comprehensive and effective schemes for the welfare and empowerment of expatriates in the coming months.

He emphasized that meaningful initiatives focused on social security, healthcare, rehabilitation, and investment opportunities would help strengthen the bond between Kerala and its global expatriate community while ensuring their continued contribution to the state's growth.

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