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An Indian expat group has filed a writ petition in the Kerala High Court against the Kerala government over a significant hike in NORKA Care health insurance premiums for Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs). The Pravasi Legal Cell (PLC) has challenged the new premium structure, which increases with age for the 2026–27 policy year. In 2025–26, a Rs 5 lakh family health cover cost Rs 13,411, but under the new system, the same coverage now costs Rs 35,664 for the 51–60 age group and Rs 44,718 for the 61–70 age group.

This represents increases of approximately 166% and 233%, respectively. PLC argues that these changes are not a routine annual revision but a major alteration to the scheme's basic pricing system. The petition also highlights that the basic Rs 5 lakh family coverage remains unchanged despite the higher premiums, while post-hospitalisation coverage has been reduced from 60 days to 30 days.

PLC contends that the notice period for renewal was shortened from 45 days to less than a week, leaving existing members little time to adjust to the new rates or explore alternatives. The group fears that many expat families, especially older members, may be forced to abandon the scheme due to the sudden cost increase, potentially disrupting their insurance continuity and benefits.

The Kerala government introduced NORKA Care in September 2025, offering health and personal accident cover to expatriate Keralites and their families. The scheme initially provided Rs 5 lakh family coverage for Rs 13,411 and a separate Rs 10 lakh personal accident cover. In 2026–27, the scheme shifted to age-based rates, with premiums ranging from Rs 13,036 for those aged 18–30 to Rs 77,773 for those aged 71–80.

The government defends the revision, citing the high claims related to pre-existing illnesses and insurer reluctance to continue under the previous terms, as reasons for the premium hike.