Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 8 (IANS): The Kerala government has decided to launch a medical online facility for the non-resident Keralites (NRKs) in the wake of increase in number of deaths due to Covid-19.

It was announced by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan here on Wednesday. Of late, there had been several frantic calls, he added.

"The medical online facility will be available from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. IST with medical professionals from various specialities available for help. Video and audio facilities will be available," said Vijayan.

He also said the Norka-Roots, the body for diaspora, along with organisations aboard had opened five help desks and help of Indian embassies could also be sought.

"All AKerala students studying abroad will have to register with Roots-Norka website. They will be helped with travel subsidy, if needed," the Chief Minister said.

According to recent studies, over 2.5 million Keralites live abroad. Of this, 90 per cent work in the Middle East. Also, around 2 million Keralites, hold passports of other countries.