NoRKA Care portal enables Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) to register for or renew insurance online. The launch adds to Kerala’s state welfare initiatives.
Quick answer: Kerala launched the NoRKA Care portal for its 2026–27 health and accident insurance scheme. New applicants can register until 30 November 2026, while existing members can renew policies. The portal and updated app serve NRKs worldwide and offer eight coverage slabs, from ₹3 lakh to ₹1 crore.
What is NoRKA Care?
NoRKA Care is Kerala’s health and accident insurance scheme for eligible NRKs. For 2026–27, the NoRKA Care portal and updated mobile app support enrolment and online services worldwide. NoRKA Roots announced the registration and renewal arrangements.
The scheme is distinct from other state health initiatives, such as Kerala’s drug procurement scheme for spinal muscular atrophy.
Who can enrol and what does the policy cover?
Expatriates aged 18–70 can enrol if they hold an eligible identity (ID) card. The premium depends on the policyholder’s age.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accepted cards | NoRKA Pravasi ID, Student ID or NRK ID card |
| Coverage slabs | ₹3 lakh, ₹5 lakh, ₹10 lakh, ₹15 lakh, ₹20 lakh, ₹25 lakh, ₹50 lakh and ₹1 crore |
| Family inclusion | From the ₹3 lakh slab, the NRK, spouse and parents up to age 110 can be included |
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered from day one; this benefit is valid only within India |
Previously, the scheme had a single coverage limit of ₹5 lakh. In contrast, the revised scheme offers eight slabs.
What services does the portal provide?
The NoRKA Care portal supports enrolment, policy documents and claims-related services. The updated app also provides health and emergency assistance.
- Documents and claims: Users can download e-cards, payment receipts and reimbursement claim forms; they can also track claim status in real time.
- Hospital and family details: The platform lists cashless hospitals and allows users to update family member details.
- Health services: The app offers doctor consultations, laboratory tests, pharmacy services and a wellness store.
- Assistance: Users can raise support tickets, request a callback or an ambulance, and share their live location during an emergency.
Within India, assistance is available round the clock in Malayalam, English and Hindi at 1860 4191 401 and 1860 4191 402. For members abroad, app-based calling operates on working days from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Indian Standard Time.
Why does the launch matter?
The launch gives eligible NRKs a digital route to enrol and manage insurance services from anywhere. Moreover, the expanded slabs and day-one cover for pre-existing conditions are important features to distinguish in prelims questions.
For comparison, see the separate Employees’ State Insurance amnesty scheme update.
Source: The Hindu, 29 October 2026
State PCS General Studies questions may test the scheme’s state, beneficiaries and coverage features. Additionally, candidates can revise how digital portals deliver welfare services to people living outside their home state.
Prelims Practice Corner
Mains Practice Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for new NoRKA Care registrations?
The deadline is 30 November 2026. Existing members can also renew their policies online.
Can parents be included in NoRKA Care?
Yes, parents up to age 110 can be included from the ₹3 lakh slab. The NRK and spouse can also be included.
Are pre-existing medical conditions covered under NoRKA Care?
Yes, coverage begins on the first day. However, this benefit is valid only within India.
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