Amid Israel-Iran tension, Kerala-based agency Norka has started a help desk for migrants. Till now 381 calls have been received, and all Malayalees who contacted from abroad are safe. Most of the questions were related to flights, travel and security.
Thiruvananthapuram: After the tension between Israel and Iran, Kerala Government agency NORKA has created a special help desk. This help desk has received 381 calls till today afternoon. Of these, 137 people called from abroad and 244 people called from within the country. Norka said that all Malayalees calling from abroad are safe. Most of the people asked questions related to current status of flights, ticket cancellation, travel advisory and security. Norka said that he is in constant touch with the Central Government, Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Embassies present in different countries, members of Lok Kerala Sabha and migrant organizations. Expatriates living in stressed countries have been advised to pay attention only to information from official channels.
This 24-hour help desk was started on the instructions of the Chief Minister’s Office for overseas Keralites and their families. Secretary of Norka Department T.V. Anupama said that till 11.30 am on Sunday, March 1, 2026, a total of 381 calls were received. He gave this information after a review meeting held at Norca Center in Thakod. He said that in view of the tension, Norca’s help desk will continue to work in future also. 137 people from abroad and 244 people from inside the country contacted the help desk. Most of the questions were related to the current status of flights, cancellations, travel and safety instructions. Norka Routes Chief Executive Officer Ajit Kolasheri also said that questions were also asked regarding the possibilities of evacuating people from Gulf countries and travel safety. Non-resident Keralites who contacted the Norka help desk are safe. However, he also said that there is increasing concern due to increasing tension and continuous attacks in the area.
The main objective of this help desk is to provide correct information to the migrants of Kerala and to provide necessary help in emergency. All calls have been officially registered so that further action can be taken. The Kerala government is continuously monitoring the situation. Coordination is ongoing with the Central Government, Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions in the respective countries, members of the Lok Kerala Sabha and diaspora organisations. Expats in stressed countries should follow information from official sources. For emergency assistance, Norca Routes help desk can be contacted on +91-8802012345 (International missed call) and 18004253939 (Toll-free number, from India).