Labor Ministry Plans Rescue Operation for Stranded Nepali Workers Abroad Due to Document Issues
The Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security has devised a plan to rescue 155 Nepali citizens stranded abroad due to lack of documents, with assistance from the National Welfare Fund. Labor Minister Ramjee Yadav informed the parliamentary committee that the ministry has outlined 12 action plans this year aimed at generating 100,000 jobs domestically. The ministry has also established a task force to curb frauds associated with “free visa” and “free ticket” scams, and is advancing the process to amend the Foreign Employment Act.
On 20th Shrawan in Kathmandu – The Ministry of Youth, Labor and Employment has prepared a plan to rescue 155 Nepali nationals stranded in various countries on visitor visas or lacking proper documentation, with support from the national welfare fund. Minister Ramjee Yadav updated the Industry, Commerce, Labor and Consumer Welfare Committee of the House of Representatives that rescue efforts have been intensified. The ministry plans to utilize a budget of NPR 150 million for this operation.
Minister Yadav also briefed the committee on the current status of foreign employment, conditions of domestic workers, job creation initiatives, and the progress on drafting various related laws. The ministry has declared 12 specific action plans under the National Employment Program, including the “Green Job Mission,” aiming to create employment for 100,000 people within Nepal this year. He emphasized, “The ministry is prioritizing the creation of employment opportunities within the country.”
Additionally, to address health issues faced by migrant workers abroad, the ministry is preparing to independently manage a facility named “Mediciti.” Previously, doctors from Bir Hospital provided treatment remotely via phone, but due to its limited effectiveness, a new arrangement is being introduced, clarified Minister Yadav.
During the meeting, Minister Yadav conveyed that steps have been taken to amend the Foreign Employment Act to reflect current realities. A dedicated task force has been formed to control fraud involving “free visa” and “free ticket” schemes. Highlighting the challenges faced by domestic workers abroad, the minister noted that there are ample opportunities for domestic workers within Nepal. The ministry has initiated a process to offer dignified and organized employment opportunities for domestic workers domestically.
To address complaints from individuals defrauded in foreign employment, the ministry has effectively implemented an online complaint system, reducing the need for complainants to travel to Kathmandu, Minister Yadav added.