Dubai – The Norka Care health and accident insurance scheme, launched by the Government of Kerala in partnership with Norka Roots for the welfare of expatriate Malayalees, has received enthusiastic backing from recognized Indian community organizations in the UAE. During a recent meeting of representatives from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain-based Indian associations, leaders pledged to promote the scheme and enroll eligible members.
The announcement and logo launch of the scheme took place at the gathering, where attendees also engaged in a Q&A session. While expressing support, many expatriates also voiced concerns and sought clarifications about the scheme.
According to Norka Roots CEO Ajith Kolassery, only those with valid Norka membership are eligible to enroll in the insurance plan. Authorized organizations will receive user IDs and passwords to facilitate member registrations, while temporary credentials will be provided to unaffiliated groups upon request. Currently, around 300,000 individuals hold Norka membership, and they face no obstacles in enrolling. The Norka card is valid for three years and can be renewed online. In July, celebrated as Membership Month, 12,000 new members joined.
Enrolled members can join the scheme by paying the premium through the Norka Care mobile app. Once the application is submitted, an e-card will be issued within a few days, which is sufficient to activate the insurance. A physical card will be delivered later to the registered address.
Key Features of the Scheme:
Coverage: Cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh is available in over 14,200 hospitals across India.
Premium: For a family of four (husband, wife, and two children), the annual premium is ₹13,411 (approx. AED 563). Each additional child can be added for ₹4,130 (AED 173). Individual premium is ₹8,101 (AED 340).
Eligibility: Indian expatriates aged 18 to 70 with a Norka ID or student ID are eligible. Currently, coverage extends to the member’s spouse and children.
Accident Cover: In addition to health benefits, the scheme offers accident insurance coverage of up to ₹10 lakh.
Waiting Period: Policy benefits become active within 24 hours of premium payment.
Hospitalization Support: Coverage is limited to inpatient care. Pre-hospitalization expenses for 30 days and post-hospitalization expenses for up to 60 days are included if linked to the covered illness. In the unfortunate event of death during treatment, the insurance will also cover the repatriation costs of the body.
The official launch of the Norka Care insurance scheme will be held on September 22, officiated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram. Beneficiaries will begin receiving coverage from November 1, which coincides with Kerala Piravi (Kerala Formation Day).
This initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for the global Malayali diaspora, especially those working in the Gulf.
