Global One-Stop Centres

Context : The Ministry of External Affairs recently received approval from the Empowered Committee of the Ministry of Women and Child Development to establish nine Global One-Stop Centres (OSCs).

About Global One-Stop Centres (OSCs)

These centres aim to provide comprehensive assistance to women in vulnerable situations, addressing their immediate needs and offering critical support.

1. Locations and Facilities

   • Seven OSCs with shelter homes will be established in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia (both Jeddah and Riyadh).
   • Two OSCs in Toronto and Singapore will function without shelter home facilities.

2. Funding and Implementation

   • The Ministry of External Affairs has introduced a dedicated budget line to support these initiatives.
   • The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) will play a pivotal role in extending welfare measures to distressed Indian nationals, especially women.

3. Scope of ICWF Assistance

   • Provides emergency support, including boarding, lodging, medical care, air travel, and repatriation of mortal remains.
   • Offers legal aid and counselling for women abandoned by their overseas Indian or foreign spouses.
   • Facilitates the payment of fines for minor legal infractions to secure the release of Indian nationals.

4. Legal Support Measures

   • Dedicated legal panels have been set up in countries with significant Indian populations to provide timely support.

The initiative reflects a significant step toward safeguarding the welfare of Indian women and vulnerable groups abroad.