RIYADH – Indian community volunteers hosted an impressive farewell to Indian Embassy Second Secretary Manoj Kumar here recently. The event, which was presided over by Muneeb Pazhoor, began with a welcome speech by Jamal Madurai. He stressed in his address the importance of volunteers and their services, adding that Manoj Kumar had been an important source of help always. Anil Nautiyal, first secretary at the embassy, said "Community volunteers are more close to us than our family members as we work for more than 16 hours with them and are connected to them on various issues." He said Manoj not only has been supporting our activities but also inspiring others to do the same. Narayan Venkateswaran, first secretary, said "Manoj Kumar works more and speaks less. And from his experiences he has been very active throughout his tenure." NRK Patron, Bala Chandra commented, "Manoj has changed our perception that North Indian officials do not support Keralites, his positive approach and support has inspired Kerala community volunteers to support him and his efforts." Bouquets were presented by Mohammed Raja, Social Forum Riyadh, Jamal Madurai, TRS and Dr. Mohammed Ashraf, All India United Society. Shawls were presented by Shajahan, RIA. Ali, Riyadh Takkees, Wali Ur Rahman, vice president BFU, attended. Manoj conveyed his gratitude for the grand farewell and thanked all for the opportunity to interact with community volunteers. He joined the embassy at the end of Nitaqat period and was at hand to assist in the Indian workers' hardships during the grace period, especially handling temporary shelter for 200 labors. He said, "It was a complicated process to deport them and feed them till their departure. But we managed it with you volunteers." Manoj was in the Community Welfare section, especially handling death cases. He has reformed the department assuring professional workflow and reduced the NOC process period. He has asked the staff of community welfare section to expedite further the process after NOC. Reports of death compensation and expediting the same are observed carefully. Community Welfare section officials of the Indian Embassy George TT, Second Secretary, Rajendran, Gambir, Ritesh, Raj Kumar and Meena were present. Muneeb Pazhoor conveyed thanks to all attendees on behalf of Embassy of India Community Welfare Volunteers.
