Kerala court orders review of expatriate health insurance premium increase
India's High Court directs NORKA to reconsider complaint over steep rise in health insurance costs for non-resident Keralites.
At a glance
- Kerala High Court ordered NORKA to review premium increase complaint within six weeks
- Petition challenges shift from group-based to age-based insurance rates for 2026–27
- Pravasi Legal Cell and two beneficiaries filed the petition on behalf of affected expatriates
- Court directed department to hear all affected parties before issuing decision
The Kerala High Court has directed the state's Non-Resident Keralites' Affairs Department to review a complaint against increased NORKA Care health insurance premiums for 2026–27 and issue a decision within six weeks. The petition was filed by the Pravasi Legal Cell along with two beneficiaries, challenging changes to the scheme that shifted from group-based premiums to age-based rates.
The court instructed the NORKA Department Secretary to consider representations from the petitioners and other affected parties before passing an order. The respondents in the case include the Kerala Government, the NORKA Department, NORKA Roots and National Insurance Company Limited, which provides the insurance cover.
Why it matters
The ruling affects non-resident Indians relying on NORKA Care health insurance, a significant concern for expatriate communities dependent on affordable coverage.
Original reporting
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