๐ Non-Resident Bihari (NRB) Portal
The Non-Resident Bihari (NRB) Portal is an innovative and dynamic digital platform conceptualized and initiated by Prof. Ravee Shekhar, designed to forge a strong, unified network among Non-Resident Biharis (NRBs) residing both within India and across the globe. It stands as a powerful, dedicated initiative aimed at harnessing the collective intellect, resources, and influence of the vast Bihari diaspora for the comprehensive transformation and development of their home state, Bihar. According to the Bihar Caste Survey report for 2022-23, there were 53 lakh families and 2.65 crore people who live outside Bihar as migrants.
This unique portal moves beyond a mere social networking site; it is a strategic instrument for engagement. Its primary function is to serve as a singular, accessible hub where NRBs can connect, collaborate, and contribute. By registering on the platform, members gain access to a myriad of opportunities for meaningful involvement, including sector-specific collaboration, mentorship programs, and investment avenues focused squarely on Bihar. The portal facilitates seamless communication among NRBs, allowing for the exchange of ideas, the sharing of expertise - ranging from technology and healthcare to education and governance and the mobilization of philanthropic efforts.
The vision behind the NRB Portal is to transform the traditional concept of 'Brain Drain' into 'Brain Gain'. It actively seeks to channel the experience and capital accumulated by successful NRBs back into Bihar's economy and social fabric. It features dedicated sections for sharing success stories, highlighting impactful projects, and providing up-to-date information on governmental policies and investment opportunities within the state.
Crucially, the platform promotes inclusivity and ownership, ensuring that every NRB, regardless of their current location or profession, has a voice and a tangible means to participate in Bihar’s resurgence. By fostering this powerful sense of collective responsibility and shared heritage, the NRB Portal is building a foundational and sustainable ecosystem for the diaspora to actively shape a prosperous future for Bihar.
๐ก NRB Portal: Features and Contribution Model
The Non-Resident Bihari (NRB) Portal is strategically engineered not just as a directory, but as a high-impact knowledge and investment funnel aimed at Bihar's growth. Its effectiveness is rooted in a clear feature set and a structured model for diaspora engagement.
Key Features of the Digital Hub
The portal is designed around three core functionalities: Connect, Collaborate, and Contribute.
1. Global Networking & Directory: It houses a verified database of NRBs worldwide, categorized by their profession (e.g., Doctors, Engineers, Entrepreneurs, Academics) and current location. This allows for targeted networking and the formation of professional sub-groups dedicated to specific development goals.
2. Sector-Specific Task Forces: The platform hosts virtual 'Working Groups' focused on critical sectors in Bihar, such as Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, and IT/Tech. Members join the relevant task force to pool expertise and develop actionable proposals for state government consideration.
3. Mentorship and Skill Transfer Programs: A dedicated module facilitates high-quality knowledge transfer. Experienced NRB professionals can mentor local entrepreneurs and students in Bihar, helping bridge the skills gap and infuse global best practices into local institutions.
4. Investment and Philanthropy Window: The portal serves as a transparent channel for investment opportunities, showcasing vetted projects (e.g.- infrastructure, start-ups) and philanthropic initiatives. This streamlines the process for NRBs to mobilize capital back home, turning remittances into developmental investment.
The NRB Contribution Model
The NRB Portal operates on a model that transforms sentimental attachment into tangible development:
- Financial Contribution (Capital): Encouraging investment through Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), portfolio investment, and funding for social enterprises within Bihar.
- Knowledge Contribution (Intellect): Utilizing the diaspora's technical expertise for policy advice, R&D partnerships, and educational curriculum development. This is often cited as the most transformative contribution.
- Networking Contribution (Influence): Leveraging the global professional and political influence of NRBs to promote Bihar as an attractive destination for external investment, tourism, and industrial partnerships.
By creating this structured ecosystem, Prof. Ravee Shekhar's initiative ensures that the collective power of the Bihari diaspora is not diffused but concentrated, making it a sustainable and powerful engine for the state's long-term resurgence.
Vande Bihar, Vande Bharatam!