Dr Arathi Krishna interacts with non-resident Kannadigas in Riyadh, assures govt’s support

coastaldigest.com news network

March 6, 2018

Riyadh: Dr Aarti Krishna, Deputy Chairperson, Non Resident Indian Forum, Karnataka govt, during her recent visit to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, interacted with Kannadiga expatriates in Riyadh. This is the first such event ever held in Riyadh.

Addressing over 700 non-resident Kannadigas on February 23, Dr Arathi Krishna said that most of the demands of the Karnataka NRIs are very genuine and promised to take-up with the Chairman of KNRI Forum, the Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramiah.

She stressed that the government of Karnataka would fulfill the aspirations and needs of the people of Karnataka in Riyadh. She announced that roll out of NRK card for Karnataka NRIs is on the anvil and will be executed very soon. She said that the government of Karnataka this year has allocated budget for NRI welfare activities. She informed that Karnataka NRI Forum has already set up NRI Welfare Centers in Commissioner Office at each district in Karnataka. She assured that her government would make necessary arrangements for Karnataka NRIs returning from Saudi Arabia on final exit.

Santhosh Shetty Ardi, President of Karnataka NRI Forum, Riyadh, while delivering welcome speech recalled the vast experience and determination of Dr Arathi Krishna and apprised the audience of her contribution to the Kannadigas staying globally.

He expressed optimism in her efforts to address genuine issues pending for NRIs, Santosh Shetty also assisted Dr. Arthi Krishna in answering some questions raised by audience on her behalf. Shetty also thanked Ahmed Javed, Ambassador of India in Saudi Arabia and Anil Nautial, Community Welfare Councilor Indian Embassy for giving opportunity showcase the theme “ONE STATE MANY WORLDS” - Karnataka’s culture, tradition, people and their progress in Janadriyah Festival. India is the guest of honor country in this magnificent Saudi cultural festival this year.

Dr Anwar Khursheed, Advisor, KNRI Forum Riyadh delivered a short speech outlining his experience in KSA spread over four decades. He stressed the need to be united and exhibit the solidarity of Karnataka NRIs in Riyadh. He conveyed to the visiting dignitary Dr. Arathi that Indians are very well known and respected for being law abiding and hardworking expatriate community in Saudi Arabia.

A memorable memento of appreciation was presented to Dr. Arathi Krishna by the dignitaries present on the dais on behalf of Kannadigas in Riyadh.

Many Karnataka organizations participated and contributed financially to make this event highly successful including, Karnataka NRI Forum, Karavali Welfare Association, JF Riyadh, Karnataka Cultural Forum Riyadh (KCF), PANORAMA, NRI Forum Riyadh, NRI Muslim DK, Khidma Foundation, Mangalore Cricket Association,

Konkan Ghar Riyadh, Hidaya Foundation, Dakshina Kannada Muslim Okkuta Riyadh, Karnataka Welfare Association, Katipalla Muslim Youth Association, Bhatkal Muslim Welfare Association, BISMI, BARSA ,ISF,and Indian Fraternity Forum.

Well-known entities in Riyadh, such as Friendi Mobiles, Taj Restaurant, Kadesiah Medical Center co-sponsored the event.

Karnataka NRI Forum Riyadh, office bearers Santhosh Shetty Ardi , President, Roshan Shabbir, Treasurer, Usman Kunjathur, Secretary, Nazir Ahmad Joint Secretary, Irfan Sheikh Mani, coordinator, Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed and Dr. Sayeed Mohiuddin, Advisors graced their presence on the dais along with the Chief Guest, Dr. Arathi Krishna.

Dr. Arathi Krishna had personal interaction with office bearers of the different Organizations individually and heard patiently the issues faced by them. She promised to resolve the problems faced by Karnataka NRIs in Saudi Arabia and to maximize the facilities for returning NRIs for their rehabilitation, children’s education, loan and other legal support.

Vote of thanks was proposed by KNRI Forum, Treasurer, Roshan Shabbir. He extended his thanks and appreciation to Dr. Arthi Krishna in her dedication to visit Saudi Arabia and assured all support required by NRIs in building vibrant Karnataka.

Further, visiting dignitary paid avisit to Janadriyah Cultural Festival as “Representative of the people and Government of Karnataka” and appreciated the efforts and hard work done by Indian Community. She was welcomed at Janadriyah Festival by ShriAnil Nautial, Community Welfare Officer of the Indian Embassy, Riyadh.

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Great... good intiative by karnataka govt. But what sort of benefit govt provide for returning NRI'S no one knows. No officials of commissioner office knows about this. And site is not working to register. Is anyone can answer about the actual facilities or its only publicity.

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Puttur's Healthcare Dream Cleared: State Finance Gives Nod for 300-Bed Hospital

News Network

December 2,2025

Puttur: The long-cherished dream of a government medical college in Puttur has moved a decisive step closer to reality, with the Karnataka State Finance Department granting its official approval for the construction of a new 300-bed hospital.

Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai announced the crucial development to reporters on Monday, confirming that the official communication from the finance department was issued on November 27. This 300-bed facility is intended to be the cornerstone for the establishment of the government medical college, a project announced in the state budget.

Fast-Track Implementation

The MLA outlined an aggressive timeline for the project:

• A Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the hospital is expected to be ready within 45 days.

• The tender process for the construction will be completed within two months.

Following the completion of the tender process, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the project.

"Setting up a medical college in Puttur is a historical decision by the Congress government in Karnataka," Rai stated. The project has an estimated budget allocation of Rs 1,000 crore for the medical college.

Focus on Medical Education Department

The MLA highlighted a key strategic move: requesting the government to implement the hospital construction through the Medical Education Department instead of the Health and Family Welfare Department. This is intended to streamline the entire process of establishing the full medical college, ensuring the facilities—including labs, operation theatres, and other necessary infrastructure—adhere to the strict guidelines set by the Medical Council of India (MCI). The proposed site for the project is in Bannur.

Rai also took the opportunity to address political criticism, stating that the government has fulfilled its promise despite "apprehensions" and "mocking and criticising" from opposition parties who had failed to take similar initiatives when they were in power. "Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has kept his word," he added.

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Stranded, hungry, and helpless: Last-minute cancellation of Dammam flight sparks chaos at Mangaluru Airport

News Network

November 24,2025

Mangaluru, Nov 24: The original departure time of 11.10 pm was a distant memory for scores of Dammam-bound passengers at Mangaluru International Airport last Friday night, as their Air India Express flight was abruptly cancelled at the eleventh hour, sparking hours of frustration and chaos.

The flight, IX 885, initially scheduled to depart at 11.10 pm on November 22, was subject to two back-to-back reschedules—first pushed to 11.45 pm and then significantly postponed to 1.40 am—before the final, crushing announcement of cancellation was made. For the travellers, many of whom are likely expatriate workers with tight schedules, the last-minute change marked the beginning of a distressing ordeal.

"There was no drinking water, no food, and absolutely no proper guidance. We were left stranded like refugees," complained a stranded passenger.

According to multiple passenger accounts, the airline's ground staff failed to provide adequate support or essential amenities following the cancellation. Complaints poured in about the total absence of drinking water, food provisions, and any reliable guidance from the carrier's representatives. Travellers alleged they were left stranded for a considerable period, with no immediate arrangements or clear communication offered regarding accommodation or alternative travel to send them back home.

The incident has highlighted serious concerns over the carrier's contingency planning and customer service protocols during flight disruptions at one of India's key international gateways. The airline is yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the alleged lapse in passenger care.

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