The Indian diaspora comprises over 35 million people across the globe in 2024, making India’s diaspora the largest in the world.
These individuals serve as economic contributors, cultural representatives, and strategic partners for India, with remittances of $129.1 billion in 2024, the highest for any country.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) on January 9th honors their significant role in shaping India's international presence.
Defining the Indian Diaspora
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): Indian citizens living abroad temporarily for work or study.
Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs): Foreign nationals of Indian descent who may have lived abroad for generations but remain culturally connected to India.
Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs): Foreign citizens of Indian heritage granted privileges such as visa-free travel and property ownership in India.
Significance and Contribution of the Indian Diaspora
Economic Impact:
In 2024, India received $129.1 billion in remittances, the largest globally.
Remittances accounted for 14.3% of global remittances, making up 3.3% of India’s GDP, supporting families and investment in local economies.
The diaspora connects Indian businesses to global markets, driving economic growth and supporting underserved regions.
Diplomatic and Administrative Role:
Indian-origin professionals and lawmakers, especially in the US and UK, play a key role in fostering India’s relations with other nations, particularly in trade and defense.
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement discussions are an example of diaspora influence in strengthening strategic partnerships.
Cultural Contributions:
The diaspora promotes Indian culture, traditions, and heritage globally, with initiatives such as celebrating Diwali in multiple US states.
The global spread of Indian festivals, yoga, Bollywood, and cuisine bolsters India’s soft power.
Knowledge Economy:
Indians lead major global tech companies, such as Google, Microsoft, and Adobe.
Many professionals are returning to India, contributing their expertise to the IT, healthcare, and innovation sectors.
Philanthropy:
Indian-origin philanthropists contribute to India’s development, focusing on education, healthcare, and rural development through organizations like the India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians (IDF-OI).
Government Initiatives for Engaging the Diaspora
Employment and Welfare Support:
E-Migrate platform ensures safe and transparent recruitment for overseas employment.
Madad Portal addresses grievances, providing legal and emergency support for Indians abroad.
Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) offers insurance to Indian emigrants for accident-related deaths and disabilities.
Cultural Engagement:
Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) allows PIOs to enjoy privileges such as visa-free travel, property ownership, and access to education in India.
Chalo India Programme encourages youth to reconnect with their heritage through cultural tours and heritage visits.
Bharat Ko Jaaniye Quiz engages diaspora youth with India's history, culture, and contemporary developments.
Academic and Research Initiatives:
Visiting Advanced Joint Research (VAJRA) scheme attracts overseas scientists to collaborate with Indian institutions.
Ramanujan Fellowship and Ramalingaswami Re-entry Fellowship offer opportunities for returning researchers in science and technology fields.
Scholarship Programs support higher education for children of NRIs and PIOs.
Community Support:
Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) provides emergency aid to Indians abroad, including repatriation and legal support.
Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi serves as a hub for diaspora activities.
Crisis Management and Evacuations like Operation Ganga and Operation Kaveri demonstrate India's capacity for large-scale evacuations during crises.
Challenges Facing the Indian Diaspora
Economic Issues:
Indian workers, especially in the Gulf region, face job insecurity due to fluctuating oil prices and shifting labor laws.
Many diaspora members experience underemployment and income disparity, especially those in low-skilled jobs.
Social and Cultural Issues:
Second- and third-generation diaspora members struggle to maintain their cultural identity while adapting to host countries.
Racism and xenophobia remain pressing concerns, affecting the diaspora's integration and well-being.
Political and Legal Barriers:
Strict immigration policies in countries like the US and UK create challenges for NRIs seeking long-term settlement.
Legal issues related to property disputes and marriage require diplomatic intervention.
Engagement Barriers:
Lack of awareness about government schemes prevents effective diaspora engagement.
Bureaucratic hurdles and complex processes often deter participation in diaspora-focused initiatives.
Way Forward for Strengthening Diaspora Engagement
Economic Strategies:
Improve skill-building programs to prepare workers for global markets in sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
Simplify taxation and regulatory frameworks to encourage diaspora investments in India.
Cultural Integration:
Teach Indian languages to diaspora children to maintain cultural ties.
Organize Indian festivals abroad to promote community cohesion and cultural identity.
Policy Reforms:
Streamline voting mechanisms for NRIs to encourage their political participation.
Expand privileges for OCIs, including participation in local governance and access to public services.
Community Support:
Enhance ICWF to provide comprehensive crisis and mental health support.
Develop real-time apps and portals for diaspora engagement, ensuring ease of access.
Strategic Partnerships:
Leverage the diaspora to strengthen bilateral relations and influence global policies, focusing on mutual benefits.
Engage youth through cultural exchange programs and scholarships to sustain intergenerational ties.
Key Takeaways The Indian diaspora plays a crucial role in shaping India’s global identity, contributing to its economy, culture, and soft power. With targeted policies and initiatives, India can further harness this community's potential, ensuring mutual growth and fostering Viksit Bharat.
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