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Indian Diaspora
Context:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated his election victory at a diaspora event organised by the Indian American Community U.S. (IACU) in Long Island, New York, attended by approximately 15,000 people from 40 states.
Current Status of the Indian Diaspora:
- Population Size: Estimated at around 18 million, the Indian Diaspora is one of the largest globally.
- Key Host Countries: Significant populations are found in the U.S., Saudi Arabia, UAE, Malaysia, Myanmar, the U.K., Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Canada, each hosting over 1 million people of Indian origin.
- Migration Trends: According to the Global Migration Report 2020, India is the largest origin country for international migrants, with a Diaspora population of about 17.5 million.
- Remittances: According to Economic Survey India received approximately $124 billion in remittances in 2024.
Qualifications for Membership in the Indian Diaspora:
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): Indian citizens residing outside India for more than 182 days in a financial year, maintaining strong ties with their homeland.
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs): Foreign nationals of Indian origin or their spouses granted permanent residency in India.
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs): Individuals of Indian birth or ancestry who are citizens of other countries. This category merged into the OCI category in 2015.
Distinct Characteristics of the Indian Diaspora:
- Diversity: Includes individuals from various regions, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Economic Success: Many are highly educated and successful in business, holding influential positions in their host countries.
- Cultural Preservation: Despite living abroad, they maintain strong ties to Indian customs and traditions.
- Political Involvement: Actively engaged in politics and advocacy in both host countries and India.
- Family Values: Strong family networks and support systems contribute to the community’s cohesion.
- Identity: A strong sense of pride in their Indian heritage.
Factors Contributing to the Large Indian Diaspora:
- Historical: Many Indians migrated during British colonial rule as indentured labourers.
- Economic: Job shortages in India have driven many to seek better prospects abroad.
- Social: Family support systems have facilitated migration and establishment abroad.
- Cultural: Indian culture, especially cuisine and spirituality, is embraced globally, aiding in the integration of the Diaspora.
Significance of the Indian Diaspora:
- Economic Contributions: Significant job creation and investments in host countries, with India benefiting from being the largest remittance recipient.
- Cultural Influence: The Diaspora has helped popularise Indian food, music, and traditions worldwide.
- Political Impact: Many hold public office in their host countries and advocate for Indian community issues.
- Diplomatic Relations: The Diaspora strengthens India’s diplomatic ties with host countries by fostering mutual understanding.
Government Initiatives for Engagement with the Diaspora:
- OCI Scheme (2005): Offers foreign nationals of Indian origin lifelong visas and investment opportunities in India.
- Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD): Recognizes the Diaspora’s contributions and facilitates interaction with India.
- Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award: Honours outstanding NRIs and PIOs.
- Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF): Provides financial aid to Indians in distress abroad.
- Swarna Pravas Yojana: Enhances employability for Indian workers abroad.
- Tracing the Roots Program: Helps PIOs reconnect with their heritage.
Major Issues:
- Cultural Preservation: The Indian Diaspora is deeply connected to their cultural heritage and strives to preserve their identity as descendants of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
- Consular and Immigration Issues: Diaspora members often report mistreatment and demands for illegal gratification by customs and immigration officials at entry points in India.
- Dual Citizenship: Many Indians abroad prefer dual citizenship, allowing them to maintain ties with both India and their host countries.
- Security Threats: Indian workers, especially in the Middle East, face security risks due to regional violence, such as abductions by groups like ISIS.
- Employment Threats (Nitaqat Law): Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat Law aims to replace foreign workers with locals, impacting many Indian workers, particularly those from Kerala.
Measures Needed for the Welfare of the Diaspora:
- Consular Services: Improve access and efficiency of consular services, including visa and passport assistance.
- Cultural Programs: Promote cultural events abroad to strengthen community ties.
- Legal Assistance: Provide legal support for Diaspora members facing issues in host countries.
- Education Access: Offer scholarships and promote the learning of Indian languages.
- Financial Assistance: Provide aid during crises like natural disasters or emergencies.