Centre Opens 7 Gulf Centres For Distressed Indian Women Workers

The Indian government has set up seven One-Stop Centres in major cities across the Gulf region to provide immediate assistance to distressed Indian women workers.

These centres, located in Manama, Muscat, Doha, Riyadh, Dubai, Jeddah, and Kuwait, offer 24x7 emergency helplines, medical, legal, police, and psychological support.

The initiative aims to address concerns over the exploitation of migrant women under the controversial kafala system. Between 2014 and June 2026, over 50.25 lakh Indian emigrant workers were granted clearance to work in the six Gulf nations.

To curb exploitation, the government has imposed strict recruitment norms for female workers, allowing recruitment only through state-run agencies or direct foreign employers registered with Indian Missions.

Foreign employers hiring Indian women must deposit a financial guarantee of $2,500 with the concerned Indian post and ensure the employment contract is officially attested.

In addition to the One-Stop Centres, Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendras operate in Dubai, Jeddah, and Riyadh to offer guidance and counseling. Workers can also raise grievances through digital portals like MADAD, eMigrate, and CPGRAMS.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) insurance cover is also available to workers. Despite international pressure, migrant workers continue to face severe abuses across the region.

In 2023, an NGO documented multiple cases in Oman involving Indian women who had their passports confiscated, were denied wages, and suffered physical abuse.

The establishment of the One-Stop Centres is a significant step towards addressing the concerns of distressed Indian women workers in the Gulf region.

The government's efforts to provide support and protection to migrant workers are crucial in ensuring their safety and well-being.

The issue of exploitation of migrant workers is a complex one, and the government's initiatives are a step in the right direction.

The One-Stop Centres will provide a safe and supportive environment for distressed Indian women workers to seek help and guidance.

The government's commitment to protecting the rights of migrant workers is evident in its efforts to establish these centres and provide support through various initiatives.

In conclusion, the establishment of the One-Stop Centres in the Gulf region is a significant development in the government's efforts to support distressed Indian women workers.

It is a crucial step towards addressing the concerns of migrant workers and ensuring their safety and well-being.

The government's initiatives are a testament to its commitment to protecting the rights of migrant workers and providing them with the support and guidance they need.