(a) whether the World Bank report released in April 2003 has highlighted that the annual remittances by the Indian workers abroad were around $ 10 billion in 2001 and there is a scope to double it with some efforts; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI SANTOSH GANGWAR)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b): In an effort to increase the remittances made by the Indian workers working abroad and address various problems being faced by the Indian workers, the Central Government in the Ministry of Labour has already introduced Emigration (Amendment) Bill, 2002 in the Lok Sabha on 21.11.2002 providing the establishment of a Central Manpower Export Promotion Council. One of the functions of the Council will be to promote employment opportunities for emigrant workers abroad.