Mr. Manoganesan ,Honorable Member of Parliament for Sri Lanka;
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Historically, Tamils have ventured abroad for trade, expeditions and also to settle abroad. A large number of Tamils migrate to foreign countries due to economic reasons, globalization of economy and in search of employment for their livelihood. This Commissionerate is involved in the welfare of such Non-Resident Tamils.
As per the Government order G.O.Ms No.1141 Public (RH.I) Department, dated 13.12.2010, the Department of Rehabilitation was re-named as "Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils" and is functioning w.e.f. 13-12-2010. In the Districts, the Personal Assistant (General) to the Collector has also been designated as "District Welfare Officer (NRTs)" and the section under the Magisterial Head Assistant has been designated as "District Welfare Centre" (Non-Resident Tamils) and is entrusted with the welfare activities.
This Commissionerate co-ordinate with the various Indian Missions abroad in resolving the grievances of the Non-Resident Tamils. They are mainly in the form of who are in distress, settlement of their claims from the foreign employer and also to bring back the mortal remains of the Non-Resident Tamils, who die abroad, in co-ordination with the respective Indian Missions abroad.
Now the name of this Department has changed into “Ayalaga Tamizhar Nalan & Maruvazhvuthurai Anaiyaragam”. Considering the focus on Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils and for this department a separate Minister for Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils have been appointed by the Government.
The Tamil Nadu Non-Resident Tamils' Welfare (Amendment) Act 2022 had been passed and noticed in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette on 25.04.2022 for the Constitution of the establishment of the Tamil Nadu Non-Resident Tamils' Welfare Board for the welfare of Non-Resident Tamils' in India and Abroad.
Tamil people who have either migrated or gone for employment to foreign countries due to economic reasons and the globalization of the economy, face a number of problems which need to be addressed. The Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India was deemed adequate to address these issues. However, in view of large number of Tamils living abroad, it was considered that the state must step into to protect the rights of its people, especially those from low-income groups staying abroad.
In order to look into the welfare of Non - Resident Tamils, the Commissionerate was reorganaized and a separate wing for the said purpose was created. Also the Department was re-named as “Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils” with the focus predominantly in the welfare of Non- Resident Tamils. Subsequently, , the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed the Tamil Nadu Non-Resident Tamils Welfare Act, 2011,(Act - 4 of 2011) and the Act has been notified in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette.
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Historically, Tamils have ventured abroad for trade, expeditions and also to settle abroad. A large number of Tamils migrate to foreign countries due to economic reasons, globalization of economy and in search of employment for their livelihood. This Commissionerate is involved in the welfare of such Non-Resident Tamils.
As per the Government order G.O.Ms No.1141 Public (RH.I) Department, dated 13.12.2010, the Department of Rehabilitation was re-named as "Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils" and is functioning w.e.f. 13-12-2010. In the Districts, the Personal Assistant (General) to the Collector has also been designated as "District Welfare Officer (NRTs)" and the section under the Magisterial Head Assistant has been designated as "District Welfare Centre" (Non-Resident Tamils) and is entrusted with the welfare activities.
This Commissionerate co-ordinate with the various Indian Missions abroad in resolving the grievances of the Non-Resident Tamils. They are mainly in the form of who are in distress, settlement of their claims from the foreign employer and also to bring back the mortal remains of the Non-Resident Tamils, who die abroad, in co-ordination with the respective Indian Missions abroad.
Now the name of this Department has changed into “Ayalaga Tamizhar Nalan & Maruvazhvuthurai Anaiyaragam”. Considering the focus on Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils and for this department a separate Minister for Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils have been appointed by the Government.
The Tamil Nadu Non-Resident Tamils' Welfare (Amendment) Act 2022 had been passed and noticed in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette on 25.04.2022 for the Constitution of the establishment of the Tamil Nadu Non-Resident Tamils' Welfare Board for the welfare of Non-Resident Tamils' in India and Abroad.
Tamil people who have either migrated or gone for employment to foreign countries due to economic reasons and the globalization of the economy, face a number of problems which need to be addressed. The Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India was deemed adequate to address these issues. However, in view of large number of Tamils living abroad, it was considered that the state must step into to protect the rights of its people, especially those from low-income groups staying abroad.
In order to look into the welfare of Non - Resident Tamils, the Commissionerate was reorganaized and a separate wing for the said purpose was created. Also the Department was re-named as “Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils” with the focus predominantly in the welfare of Non- Resident Tamils. Subsequently, , the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed the Tamil Nadu Non-Resident Tamils Welfare Act, 2011,(Act - 4 of 2011) and the Act has been notified in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette.
The Government of Tamil Nadu provides housing amenities to Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the rehabilitation camps as part of its commitment to ensuring a life of dignity, safety, and stability for displaced families. These housing provisions aim to address the basic need for secure shelter, reduce overcrowding, and improve living conditions within the camps. By offering proper housing, the government not only ensures physical safety but also fosters a sense of community, belonging, and well-being among residents. This initiative reflects the state's long-standing humanitarian approach and its dedication to supporting vulnerable populations in rebuilding their lives.
The Government of Tamil Nadu promotes livelihood and women empowerment schemes to ensure economic independence and self-reliance among Sri Lankan Tamils in the rehabilitation camps. By supporting skill development and income generation—especially for women the State fosters gender equality, social inclusion, and sustainable community development.
The Tamil Nadu Government is committed to empowering the Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the rehabilitation camps community by providing skill development opportunities and facilitating employment. In 2024-25, TNSDC successfully trained 2,404 individuals and identified an additional 5,519 candidates for skill development programs.
Recognizing the mental health challenges faced by Sri Lankan Tamils, the Tamil Nadu government has taken significant steps to provide the necessary support. From September 2024 to June 2025, mental health professionals visited 103 camps and counselled 5434 beneficiaries on mental health issues, addressed mental health issues, and provided critical psychological support to refugees who had experienced trauma and displacement.
To ensure the well-being of Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the rehabilitation camps, the government provides comprehensive welfare support:
The Tamil Nadu government prioritizes food security for Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the rehabilitation camps. In addition to the 12 kg of free rice per adult and 6 kg per child under 8 years, the government ensures that all rice is provided free of charge post-2021 (formerly, 20 kg was provided free, with the remaining subsidized). Additionally, essential items like oil and sugar are made available at concessional rates through the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensuring no family goes hungry.
The Tamil Nadu Government firmly believes in providing access to quality education for refugee children, empowering them for a better future. In 2024–25, the government offers the following:
These initiatives reflect the Tamil Nadu Government’s continuous effort to uplift and support the Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the rehabilitation camps community by addressing their basic needs, providing opportunities for development, and empowering them through education and livelihood opportunities.
In response to the need for long-term solutions and self-reliance for Sri Lankan Tamils residing in camps and outside, the Advisory Committee established by the Government of Tamil Nadu has provided key recommendations to address the challenges faced by these communities. The Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Non-Resident Tamil Welfare has submitted the following proposals to the government:
These proposals aim to provide a structured path for citizenship, self-reliance, and social integration, ensuring that Sri Lankan Tamils can build stable, dignified lives while contributing to society in the long run.
In line with the government’s commitment to providing secure accommodation and support for Sri Lankan Tamils, 77 refugees with pending legal cases are housed in restricted conditions in Tiruchirappalli and Ramanathapuram. To ensure their basic needs are met, the government provides ₹175 per person/day for meals, contributing to their welfare during this uncertain period
In response to the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, the Tamil Nadu Government has accommodated 328 new arrivals at Mandapam. Immediate support, including food, clothing, and essential supplies, has been provided to help ease the transition for these individuals who have fled difficult circumstances.
The Tamil Nadu Government continues to provide comprehensive welfare schemes to enhance the quality of life for refugees:
These schemes reflect the Tamil Nadu Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being and integration of Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the rehabilitation camps, offering them the resources and opportunities necessary for a better future in India.
The Government of Tamil Nadu provides housing amenities to Sri Lankan Tamil refugees residing in rehabilitation camps as part of its commitment to ensuring a life of dignity, safety, and stability for displaced families. These housing provisions aim to address the basic need for secure shelter, reduce overcrowding, and improve living conditions within the camps. By offering proper housing, the government not only ensures physical safety but also fosters a sense of community, belonging, and well-being among residents. This initiative reflects the state's long-standing humanitarian approach and its dedication to supporting vulnerable populations in rebuilding their lives.
The Government of Tamil Nadu promotes livelihood and women empowerment schemes to ensure economic independence and self-reliance among Sri Lankan Tamils in the rehabilitation camps. By supporting skill development and income generation—especially for women the State fosters gender equality, social inclusion, and sustainable community development.
The Tamil Nadu Government is committed to empowering the Sri Lankan Tamil refugee community by providing skill development opportunities and facilitating employment. In 2024-25, TNSDC successfully trained 2,404 individuals and identified an additional 5,519 candidates for skill development programs.
Recognizing the mental health challenges faced by Sri Lankan Tamils, the Tamil Nadu government has taken significant steps to provide the necessary support. From September 2024 to June 2025, mental health professionals visited 103 camps and counselled 5434 beneficiaries on mental health issues, addressed mental health issues, and provided critical psychological support to refugees who had experienced trauma and displacement.
To ensure the well-being of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees, the government provides comprehensive welfare support:
The Tamil Nadu government prioritizes food security for Sri Lankan Tamil refugees. In addition to the 12 kg of free rice per adult and 6 kg per child under 8 years, the government ensures that all rice is provided free of charge post-2021 (formerly, 20 kg was provided free, with the remaining subsidized). Additionally, essential items like oil and sugar are made available at concessional rates through the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensuring no family goes hungry.
The Tamil Nadu Government firmly believes in providing access to quality education for refugee children, empowering them for a better future. In 2024–25, the government offers the following:
These initiatives reflect the Tamil Nadu Government’s continuous effort to uplift and support the Sri Lankan Tamil refugee community by addressing their basic needs, providing opportunities for development, and empowering them through education and livelihood opportunities.
In response to the need for long-term solutions and self-reliance for Sri Lankan Tamils residing in camps and outside, the Advisory Committee established by the Government of Tamil Nadu has provided key recommendations to address the challenges faced by these communities. The Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Non-Resident Tamil Welfare has submitted the following proposals to the government:
These proposals aim to provide a structured path for citizenship, self-reliance, and social integration, ensuring that Sri Lankan Tamils can build stable, dignified lives while contributing to society in the long run.
In line with the government’s commitment to providing secure accommodation and support for Sri Lankan Tamils, 77 refugees with pending legal cases are housed in restricted conditions in Tiruchirappalli and Ramanathapuram. To ensure their basic needs are met, the government provides ₹175 per person/day for meals, contributing to their welfare during this uncertain period
In response to the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, the Tamil Nadu Government has accommodated 328 new arrivals at Mandapam. Immediate support, including food, clothing, and essential supplies, has been provided to help ease the transition for these individuals who have fled difficult circumstances.
The Tamil Nadu Government continues to provide comprehensive welfare schemes to enhance the quality of life for refugees:
These schemes reflect the Tamil Nadu Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being and integration of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees, offering them the resources and opportunities necessary for a better future in India.
World Tamil Diaspora Day 2024 was celebrated with the theme ‘Tamizhvellum’ on 11.01.2024 and 12.01.2024 at Nandambakkam, Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai. In last year celebration, special guests participated only for one day.
This year, the first day (11.01.2024) was chaired by the Honorable Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development and the second day (12.01.24) was chaired by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
The following 12 foreign dignitaries were participated as special guests in the opening ceremony of World diaspora Day 2024 (11.01.2024) under the leadership of Hon'ble Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development.
Mr. Manoganesan ,Honorable Member of Parliament for Sri Lanka;
Mr. Chanakyan Rasamanikam, Honorable Member of Parliament for Sri Lanka;
Datuk. Pa. Kamalanathan, Former Deputy Minister of Higher Education for Malaysia;
Mr. Ra. Dinakaran, Former Member of Parliament for Singapore;
Mr. S. Lakshmana , Chairman Tectonic Group Dubai;
Tansri. R. Duraisingampillai, Chairman Vismalotus Group Malaysia;
Mr. Martevenkatasamy, Chairman, Air Mauritius;
Warts. Ramasamythanapal, Harley with HealthcareGroup, London;
Mr. Thirunavukarasu, Ex-Chairman, Board of Trustees, Singapore;
Mr. Abdulhadi, Chief Executive Officer, BioluminexHealthCare Limited, London;
Mr. Subhash Sundarraj, Founder CEO, Global Action Foundation, Toronto, Canada;
Datuk Shri. Muhammad Iqbal Rauthar, Founder, Faith Islamic Education Foundation,
The following 12 foreign dignitaries were participated as special guests under the leadership of the Hon'ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister participated on the second day of the ceremony (12.01.2024).
For the first time, on this year World Diaspora Tamils Day, it has been decided to give awards to the Diaspora Tamils who excels in the fields of Tamil literature, Education, Social Development, Women, Business, Science & Technology, Sports and Medicine, and Thirteen Diaspora Tamils who excel in the above eight fields have been awarded in the name of Kaniyan Pungundranar by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
SI No | Fields | Awardees |
---|---|---|
1 | Tamil literature | 1) Mrs. Vaidegi Herbert – USA 2) Mr. Subramanian Dinappan - Singapore |
2 | Education | 1) Mr. Bala Swaminathan - USA 2) Mr. Murugesu Paramanathan - Australia |
3 | Social development | Mr. Y. B. Datuk Sri. Saravanan – Malaysia |
4 | Women | 1) Mrs. Chitra Ramesh – USA 2) Mrs. Jesila Banu – U.A.E. |
5 | Business | 1) Mr. Pakiriswamy Rasamanikam 2) Mr. Syed Muhammad Salahuddin |
6 | Science and Technology | Mr. Sudhakar Pichaimuthu - England |
7 | Sports | 1) Mr. Raman Duraisamy – South Korea 2) Mrs. Saranya Devi - Kuwait |
8 | Medicine | INR 50000 |
9 | Medical Expenses | Mr. Jayaram Lingamanayakar – Singapore |
The Stalls was set up as part of the World Diaspora Day Celebrations on the following four themes
Welfare of Tamils
Tamil Art, Culture and Commerce
Antiquity and Continuity of Tamils
Government, Non-Government Organizations and 9 Tamil Sangams from overseas set up their stalls / sales halls.
Also, 100 books were published under the title Kalaingar 100 and exhibited at the event.
In this event, in order to encourage the interest of learning tamil among the tamils living abroad, through the Tamil Virtual Academy, speech competition, Thirukkural story competition and Fancy dress competition were conducted to the students studying in their centers, and prizes were awarded.
A total of 1602 persons, (874 members of 485 associations and 728 individuals from 58 countries and 8 states of India) had registered to participate in the event through our website and around 1379 people were participated in this event.
754 rooms were booked in 20 hotels near Chennai Trade Center to accommodate the above mentioned persons.
Special Guests were hosted at ITC Grand Chola Hotel. Additionally, Representatives of Tamil Associations from India and various countries were accommodated in 5-star and 4-star hotels for a three-day stay.
Air tickets were arranged for the special guests and brought to Chennai from their respective countries. Also, transportation services were provided to all the participants of the event and brought to the venue where the event was held.
Also, apart from those who registered on the website, many people also participated in the program directly.
World Tamil Diaspora Day 2024 was celebrated with the theme ‘Tamizhvellum’ on 11.01.2024 and 12.01.2024 at Nandambakkam, Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai. In last year celebration, special guests participated only for one day.
This year, the first day (11.01.2024) was chaired by the Honorable Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development and the second day (12.01.24) was chaired by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
The following 12 foreign dignitaries were participated as special guests in the opening ceremony of World diaspora Day 2024 (11.01.2024) under the leadership of Hon'ble Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development.
Mr. Manoganesan ,Honorable Member of Parliament for Sri Lanka;
Mr. Chanakyan Rasamanikam, Honorable Member of Parliament for Sri Lanka;
Datuk. Pa. Kamalanathan, Former Deputy Minister of Higher Education for Malaysia;
Mr. Ra. Dinakaran, Former Member of Parliament for Singapore;
Mr. S. Lakshmana , Chairman Tectonic Group Dubai;
Tansri. R. Duraisingampillai, Chairman Vismalotus Group Malaysia;
Mr. Martevenkatasamy, Chairman, Air Mauritius;
Warts. Ramasamythanapal, Harley with HealthcareGroup, London;
Mr. Thirunavukarasu, Ex-Chairman, Board of Trustees, Singapore;
Mr. Abdulhadi, Chief Executive Officer, BioluminexHealthCare Limited, London;
Mr. Subhash Sundarraj, Founder CEO, Global Action Foundation, Toronto, Canada;
Datuk Shri. Muhammad Iqbal Rauthar, Founder, Faith Islamic Education Foundation,
The following 12 foreign dignitaries were participated as special guests under the leadership of the Hon'ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister participated on the second day of the ceremony (12.01.2024).
For the first time, on this year World Diaspora Tamils Day, it has been decided to give awards to the Diaspora Tamils who excels in the fields of Tamil literature, Education, Social Development, Women, Business, Science & Technology, Sports and Medicine, and Thirteen Diaspora Tamils who excel in the above eight fields have been awarded in the name of Kaniyan Pungundranar by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
SI No | Fields | Awardees |
---|---|---|
1 | Tamil literature | 1) Mrs. Vaidegi Herbert – USA 2) Mr. Subramanian Dinappan - Singapore |
2 | Education | 1) Mr. Bala Swaminathan - USA 2) Mr. Murugesu Paramanathan - Australia |
3 | Social development | Mr. Y. B. Datuk Sri. Saravanan – Malaysia |
4 | Women | 1) Mrs. Chitra Ramesh – USA 2) Mrs. Jesila Banu – U.A.E. |
5 | Business | 1) Mr. Pakiriswamy Rasamanikam 2) Mr. Syed Muhammad Salahuddin |
6 | Science and Technology | Mr. Sudhakar Pichaimuthu - England |
7 | Sports | 1) Mr. Raman Duraisamy – South Korea 2) Mrs. Saranya Devi - Kuwait |
8 | Medicine | INR 50000 |
9 | Medical Expenses | Mr. Jayaram Lingamanayakar – Singapore |
The Stalls was set up as part of the World Diaspora Day Celebrations on the following four themes
Welfare of Tamils
Tamil Art, Culture and Commerce
Antiquity and Continuity of Tamils
Government, Non-Government Organizations and 9 Tamil Sangams from overseas set up their stalls / sales halls.
Also, 100 books were published under the title Kalaingar 100 and exhibited at the event.
In this event, in order to encourage the interest of learning tamil among the tamils living abroad, through the Tamil Virtual Academy, speech competition, Thirukkural story competition and Fancy dress competition were conducted to the students studying in their centers, and prizes were awarded.
A total of 1602 persons, (874 members of 485 associations and 728 individuals from 58 countries and 8 states of India) had registered to participate in the event through our website and around 1379 people were participated in this event.
754 rooms were booked in 20 hotels near Chennai Trade Center to accommodate the above mentioned persons.
Special Guests were hosted at ITC Grand Chola Hotel. Additionally, Representatives of Tamil Associations from India and various countries were accommodated in 5-star and 4-star hotels for a three-day stay.
Air tickets were arranged for the special guests and brought to Chennai from their respective countries. Also, transportation services were provided to all the participants of the event and brought to the venue where the event was held.
Also, apart from those who registered on the website, many people also participated in the program directly.