Saudi extends grace period for illegal expats; Indian embassy thanks King

July 2, 2013

Riyadh, Jul 2: Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, Saudi Arabia has reportedly decided to extend the grace period for illegal expatriates, which was supposed to expire on Wednesday July 3.

Sources in Labor Ministry of Saudi Arabia said the deadline to rectify the status would be extended to Muharram 1, 1435 H (November 2013). This will allow many foreign expats to complete their undocumented work, looking at the seriousness of companies and workers.

It is learnt that the Labor Ministry contacted the higher authorities in regard to extend the grace period. Basically, the Labor Ministry reinforced the need to extend the grace period because of the large number of people.

India thanks Saudi King

Meanwhile, Embassy of India in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reiterated its gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for the 'concessions' that provided opportunity to a large number of expatriates to correct their legal status by getting new jobs or changing their sponsorship/companies. It also provided opportunity to many overstaying Indian expatriates to obtain exit without facing any penal action and with no ban to return to Saudi Arabia. This shows the humanitarian approach that His Royal Majesty and authorities of this country have adopted on this issue, the embassy stated in a release.

The Indian Embassy has registered a significant number of overstaying Indians in Saudi Arabia and issued them with travel documents (Emergency Certificate) to facilitate their return to India. Many of them were able to obtain their exits from various 'Tarheels' across the Kingdom. Many of the overstaying Indian expats were able to correct their legal status at the Labour offices. The Embassy has kept the Saudi authorities at the highest levels in the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior and Labour informed about all issues pertaining to the welfare of the Indian community and also updated them on the progress in obtaining exit for those wanting to leave Saudi Arabia on final exit.

The Embassy has shared with the Saudi authorities at appropriate levels details of Indians who approached the Embassy to avail the concessions announced by Saudi authorities. The Embassy continues to follow-up with Saudi authorities on all the outstanding issues, said the release.

The Embassy said that it is confident that all issues regarding the welfare of Indians in the Kingdom would be addressed as per the Saudi laws and regulations. “The Embassy is fully aware of its responsibilities towards the Indian nationals and it will continue to address all issues of concern for the Indian community within the framework of Saudi laws and regulations, keeping in view our strategic partnership with this country and the welfare of more than two million Indians resident here”, it said.

Helpline

The Embassy officials deployed at the mobile helpline counters at Shumeshi Tarheel and Riyadh International Airport which will continue to provide assistance to the Indians who approach these places. The helpline numbers of Indian Embassy team at Tarheel are 0546843866, 0546843894, 0546843836, 0546843746, and 0546843903. The helpline numbers of Indian Embassy team at Airport are 0546843922, 0546843919, 0546843734, 0546843750, and 0548981774. This is in addition to the 24x7 helpline numbers at the Embassy of India (011 4884697, 011 4881982, 0501699879, 0501700106, 0501699895, 0501699894). The Embassy officials deployed at Tarheel in Dammam will also continue to operate. The large number of registered volunteers who have worked with the Embassy in assisting the community will continue to provide their services to all Indians in need.

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Philanthropist, Visionary Entrepreneur, A K Group Founder M Ahmed passes away

coastaldigest.com news network

October 8,2024

Mangaluru, Oct 8: The city of Mangaluru mourns the loss of M Ahmed, a pioneering businessman, philanthropist, and the Founder Chairman of the AK Group. He passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of service, innovation, and community building.

M Ahmed, also fondly known as A K Ahmed, was a man of humble beginnings who grew into one of the most respected entrepreneurs in South India. He founded the AK Group in 1984, which has since flourished into a multi-faceted business empire. The company, which began as a small frame manufacturing unit, now encompasses a wide range of industries, including plywood, formaldehyde, particle boards, fire-rated products, and more. AK Group's growth extended beyond India, with manufacturing units established in Myanmar and Vietnam.

What began with 18 employees in 1984 has today expanded to provide employment to approximately 3,000 people in India and 400 abroad. M Ahmed’s dedication and vision were instrumental in transforming the company into a market leader, recognized for its high-quality products and innovation. AK Plywood is now one of India’s top plywood manufacturers, and the largest in South India. The company was Karnataka’s first plywood manufacturer to receive ISO certification and has garnered prestigious awards, including the Rising Stars Power Brands Award in London (2017) and the Best Manufacturer Award from MSME Karnataka (2018).

Ahmed’s business success was deeply rooted in values instilled in him during his early years. He worked alongside his father, the late Abdul Khader Moopa, loading sawn timber, and it was from these humble beginnings that he developed his work ethic, pioneering spirit, and respect for time—values that remained the cornerstone of his remarkable career.

His foresight was evident when he recognized the potential of timber from Perumbavoor, Kerala, for plywood and blockboards at a time when it was merely being used as firewood. This strategic move led to the establishment of one of the first frame manufacturing and peeling units there, and soon after, Ahmed launched his own company in Mangaluru, swiftly earning national and international recognition.

Beyond plywood, the AK Group has diversified into multiple industries, including marine food, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, hypermarkets in India and the UAE, and food industries in Indonesia. Under Ahmed’s leadership, the company’s reach expanded, ensuring its position as a formidable player in various sectors.

Ahmed was not only an extraordinary businessman but also a deeply compassionate individual, dedicated to social and religious causes. He served as the founding president of the managing committee of Ihsan Masjid in Mangaluru and established the Highland Educational and Cultural Centre. His philanthropic efforts were as vast as his business ventures, benefiting countless communities both in India and abroad.

His kindness, simplicity, and punctuality were hallmarks of his character. Those who knew him admired his unyielding commitment to excellence, as well as his warmth and generosity. M Ahmed is survived by his wife, three daughters, and four sons, who continue his legacy of philanthropy and social service.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all sectors of society. Social, religious, and political leaders in Mangaluru expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of a man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.

M Ahmed’s journey from humble beginnings to massive success will continue to inspire generations. His life serves as a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and, above all, integrity.

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