APNRTS Intensifies Support for Andhra NRIs in Gulf Amid Escalating Tensions
In response to the escalating tensions in the Gulf region, the Andhra Pradesh Non-Resident Telugu Society (APNRTS) has significantly ramped up its coordination and outreach initiatives to safeguard the well-being of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from Andhra Pradesh residing in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The organization is actively monitoring the volatile situation and maintaining continuous communication with its extensive network of coordinators across the region.
Monitoring and Coordination Efforts
APNRTS President Dr. Ravi Vemuru emphasized that the society is closely tracking the evolving geopolitical landscape. "We are in constant touch with our coordinators throughout the Gulf to ensure timely support and assistance," he stated. Dr. Vemuru highlighted that approximately 10 lakh Andhra NRIs are living in GCC nations, with the majority concentrated in Kuwait. The organization has established a robust presence across all GCC countries, except Iran, through a well-structured coordinator system at both national and regional levels.
"We have nearly 96 coordinators representing almost all GCC countries. The complete list of coordinators is accessible on our official website for easy reference," Dr. Vemuru added. This network is crucial for providing localized support and information to the Telugu diaspora during this period of uncertainty.
Helpline and Initial Response
APNRTS operates a 24/7 helpline with numbers +91 0863-2340678 and +91 8500027678 to assist Telugu individuals abroad. "Although the helpline is available round the clock, many calls are coming directly to us or to our local coordinators," Dr. Vemuru explained. Initially, on Saturday, several resident Telugus in GCC countries contacted the society expressing concerns. At that time, the conflict appeared limited in scope, and APNRTS advised them to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement unless it was an emergency. Most residents opted to stay in their homes, feeling relatively safe.
Shift in Distress Calls and Support Options
However, since Sunday, there has been a noticeable shift in the nature of distress calls received by APNRTS. "The majority of calls are now from Telugu people who traveled to GCC countries for business or short visits and are stranded due to flight disruptions," Dr. Vemuru noted. Many of these individuals are staying in hotels or at airports, facing uncertainty about their return to India.
To address this, APNRTS has provided three primary options for those stranded:
- Flights from Muscat in Oman to Kochi are continuing. If tickets are available, individuals may travel by cab to Muscat and board flights to India. Oman does not require a visa for those who have previously traveled to the United States.
- Stranded individuals may contact APNRTS coordinators for local assistance or temporary accommodation.
- If immediate travel is not feasible, they may stay at the airport or hotel until the situation becomes clearer.
Evacuation Considerations and Future Plans
Regarding the possibility of large-scale evacuation, Dr. Vemuru expressed caution. "Considering the huge numbers—over 10 lakh Andhra NRIs in the GCC—a large-scale evacuation may not be practical at this stage," he said. The society is awaiting further directions from the Ministry of External Affairs and remains fully committed to supporting every Telugu person in the region. APNRTS continues to prioritize safety and coordination, ensuring that NRIs have access to necessary resources and information during this challenging time.
APNRTS Network and Helpline Details
The organization's extensive network includes registered coordinators and members across GCC countries, as detailed below:
- Kuwait: 7,00,000 Andhra NRIs, 54,323 registered, 2,110 coordinators
- UAE: 1,50,000 Andhra NRIs, 15,005 registered, 838 coordinators
- Bahrain: 60,000 Andhra NRIs, 8,108 registered, 333 coordinators
- Oman: 40,000 Andhra NRIs, 7,003 registered, 242 coordinators
- Saudi Arabia: 80,000 Andhra NRIs, 6,657 registered, 463 coordinators
- Qatar: 40,000 Andhra NRIs, 5,704 registered, 469 coordinators
Total for GCC: 10,70,000 Andhra NRIs, 96,800 registered, 4,455 coordinators. For Iran, there are 2,000 Andhra NRIs and 28 coordinators.
The 24/7 APNRTS helpline remains active: +91 0863-2340678 and +91 8500027678, providing crucial support to the Telugu community abroad during this period of heightened tensions in the Gulf region.
