"The Indian diaspora and its contributions to post independent India":
The Indian diaspora refers to the people of Indian origin who live outside India, either temporarily or permanently. According to the UN, the Indian diaspora is the largest in the world, with 17.5 million people living in 125 countries¹. The Indian diaspora has a long and diverse history, dating back to ancient and medieval times, when Indians migrated for trade, religious, and cultural reasons. However, the major waves of Indian migration occurred during the colonial and post-colonial periods, when Indians moved as indentured laborers, merchants, professionals, students, and political activists.
The Indian diaspora has made significant contributions to the development of India and its relations with the world. Some of the areas where the diaspora has played a vital role are:
Remittances: The Indian diaspora is one of the largest sources of remittances for India, sending about $83 billion in 2019. Remittances help in boosting the foreign exchange reserves, reducing the current account deficit, and supporting the domestic consumption and investment in India. Remittances also help in alleviating poverty, improving education, health, and social welfare of the families of migrants.
Investment: The Indian diaspora is also an important source of foreign direct investment (FDI) and portfolio investment for India. The diaspora invests in various sectors such as information technology, biotechnology, infrastructure, manufacturing, services, etc. The diaspora also participates in various schemes such as the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), the Foreign Currency Non-Resident (FCNR) accounts, the Non-Resident External (NRE) accounts, etc., to facilitate their investment in India. The diaspora also helps in attracting other foreign investors to India by showcasing its potential and opportunities.
Lobbying: The Indian diaspora is also a powerful lobby group for India in the international arena. The diaspora influences the policies and opinions of their host countries towards India on various issues such as trade, security, human rights, climate change, etc. The diaspora also advocates for India's interests and aspirations in global forums such as the UN, the World Bank, the IMF, etc. The diaspora also mobilizes support for India's candidature for permanent membership in the UN Security Council and other multilateral institutions.
Culture: The Indian diaspora is also a promoter of Indian culture abroad. The diaspora organizes and participates in various cultural events such as festivals, fairs, exhibitions, concerts, etc., to showcase the diversity and richness of Indian art, music, dance, literature, cuisine, etc. The diaspora also supports and sponsors various cultural institutions such as museums, libraries, schools, temples, etc., to preserve and propagate Indian heritage. The diaspora also helps in spreading the values of democracy, secularism, pluralism, tolerance, and peace that are inherent in Indian culture.
Image: The Indian diaspora is also a builder of India's image and reputation in the world. The diaspora demonstrates its intelligence and industry by excelling in various fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine, education, business, politics, sports, entertainment, etc. The diaspora also showcases its achievements and awards by receiving recognition and honors from their host countries and international organizations. The diaspora also reflects its patriotism and loyalty by supporting India during times of crisis and emergency.
In conclusion, the Indian diaspora is a valuable asset for India and its development. The diaspora contributes by way of remittances, investment, lobbying, culture, and image building. The diaspora also acts as a bridge between India and the world, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation. India recognizes and appreciates the role of the diaspora and has taken various steps to engage with it through various platforms such as the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), etc. India also seeks to address the issues and concerns of the diaspora such as consular services, visa facilitation, welfare schemes, legal assistance, etc. India hopes to strengthen its bond with the diaspora and leverage its potential for achieving its vision of becoming a self-reliant and global power.