Allow NRIs to exchange old notes at banks, govt urged

Minister of State for External Affairs M J Akbar inaugurated the annual convention of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) here on Thursday.

Speaking at the event, Akbar appreciated the role of non-resident Indians (NRIs) in strengthening relations between India and other countries.

“India will have its first-ever strategic discussion with UAE on January 20 and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi, will be our guest at the Republic Day,” he said.

The external affairs ministry will soon launch portals to help Indians who are travelling abroad in search of jobs, he said.

Talking about demonetisation, Akbar said, “A single, historic move by the prime minister has converted black money into white and this will now be used for the nation’s development.”

Thomas Abraham, chairman of the organisation, raised the issue of provisions for NRIs to exchange old currency.

“We are thankful that the deadline has been extended to June 30. However, notes can be exchanged only in certain branches of the Reserve Bank of India. For a few thousand rupees, people cannot travel to a different city.”

To ensure that the money does not go waste, he requested the government to make provisions for NRIs to exchange notes in other banks.