As the number of Gujaratis living abroad increases, the Gujarat Government has decided to launch an online service for them to apply for a "Gujarat Card."
The Gujarat Card is a state government initiative for people of Gujarati origin living abroad and in other states of India.
Gujarat Minister of State for Home Pradeepsinh Jadeja said in an official release, "Gujaratis living abroad and in other parts of the country can apply online for the state's 'Gujarat Card'".
As per the current practice, NRGs had to apply for Gujarat Card by submitting the application forms and other documents in person when they visited Gujarat.
"Now they can do it online, and the card will be posted to the address mentioned by them," Gujarat Minister of State for Home Pradeepsinh Jadeja said in an official release.
To obtain this card, an NRG person has to visit -www.nri.gujarat.gov.in and fill up the application form with all required documents.
The purpose of the card was to allow people to participate in the progress of the state and also resolve their issues with the government. So far, Gujarat Government has issued total 20975 Gujarat cards. Out of this, there are 2033 NRI Gujarat Cards and 18972 NRG Gujarati Cards.
Source: screen
NRGs who have this card are given preference over others when they come to Gujarat to resolve outstanding issues with various state departments.
"They also get discounts at more than 600 private establishments like hotels and stores with whom the Gujarat government has signed MoUs for Gujarat Card holders," Mr Jadeda said in a media release.
"We are in the process of signing MoUs with more such establishments to maximise the benefits of the card," he added.
Why Gujarat card?
One of the prominent post holders of a leading Gujarati organisation abroad told SBS Gujarati on the condition of anonymity, "I welcome this step, but I do not understand why Gujarat card is important? I have Gujarat Card for more than a decade, I do not see any good. It just recognises you as a Gujarati and I do not need anyone to authorise that."
He further adds, " Even though I am a Gujarat card holder, I have waited for 5 to 6 hours to meet ministers. None of the Gujarat government department gave my priority. I had to go from one table to another. "
Instead, he suggests the Government should give a cardholder discount for such things as medical tourism or some reputable government guest houses, not at unknown establishments.
