british Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio Meets Punjab Nri Affairs Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh

Aug11,2026 | Jagrati Lahar Bureau | Chandigarh

*Discusses issues concerning Punjabi diaspora in UK and concerns of NRIs with Punjab links*

British Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio, and Madhu Mishra, Senior Adviser (Economics, Climate & Development), British High Commission, today called on Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh at his office in Punjab Civil Secretariat-1, Chandigarh.

During the meeting, Dr. Ravjot Singh held detailed discussions with the British delegation on various issues concerning the Punjabi diaspora residing in the United Kingdom and NRIs having links with Punjab. He said that the Punjab Government is committed to maintaining continuous engagement with Punjabis living abroad and addressing their genuine concerns in an effective manner.

Dr. Ravjot Singh urged Punjabis residing in the UK to remain vigilant against fraudulent and unauthorised travel agents. He said that NRIs and their families should not fall prey to individuals making false promises regarding visas, immigration, overseas travel or other related services. He emphasised that creating greater awareness among the public is essential to protect people from fraud and exploitation by unscrupulous travel agents.

The Minister also informed the British delegation that the Punjab Government is organising an NRI Milni in Bathinda on August 26, which will provide platforms for interaction with NRIs. He invited Punjabis living abroad, particularly those from Bathinda and adjoining areas, to participate in the NRI Milni and place their issues and suggestions directly before the Punjab Government.

During the meeting, various concerns of Punjabis residing in the UK and NRIs having links with Punjab were also discussed, including matters relating to their continued association with Punjab and issues affecting their interests.

Both sides emphasised the need to further strengthen mutual communication and cooperation on matters concerning the Punjabi diaspora.

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