In a significant administrative overhaul ahead of its inaugural Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas, the Rajasthan government has officially changed the name of its NRI department. The department will now be known as the Department of Domestic & Overseas Rajasthani Affairs (DORA).
Expanded Mandate for Deeper Diaspora Ties
The state administration issued a notification detailing the change, which comes into effect immediately. The restructuring is not merely a symbolic rename but involves a substantial expansion of the department's responsibilities. The core mandate of deepening engagement with the vast Rajasthani diaspora community has been formally assigned to the industry department.
The newly formed DORA will have a comprehensive role covering all coordination related to Non-Resident Rajasthanis (NRRs). Its functions will include designing and executing specific schemes and projects for the diaspora, resolving issues faced by NRRs, and organizing events focused on the community. It will also be responsible for disseminating government policies to Rajasthanis living outside the state.
Consolidating Investment and Oversight Functions
Furthermore, the department will oversee the Rajasthan Foundation and coordinate broader NRI matters. A key revision in the government's first schedule now explicitly includes the state's investment policy, with a focus on policies targeted at NRIs and NRRs. The promotion of overseas and diaspora-linked investments is now a core part of DORA's purview.
Senior officials explained that this strategic shift aims to consolidate all investment-related functions under a single, powerful department. This move is timely as Rajasthan actively courts global capital and entrepreneurs from its diaspora. The state is preparing to host business leaders, global professionals, and expatriate Rajasthani communities for its upcoming diaspora conclave.
From Ceremonial Outreach to Tangible Outcomes
The timing of this administrative overhaul indicates the state's desire to present a streamlined and effective architecture to the global Rajasthani community, rather than a purely ceremonial outreach effort. The government believes this restructuring will help translate the immense goodwill of the diaspora into tangible economic outcomes.
This is expected to be particularly impactful in sectors where diaspora networks are already active and influential. By creating a one-stop department with an expanded mandate, Rajasthan aims to facilitate smoother interactions, faster issue resolution, and a more attractive environment for diaspora investments. The notification makes all these changes effective immediately, setting the stage for a more engaged relationship with Rajasthanis worldwide.
