Indian Diaspora

Indian Diaspora

The Prime Minister inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention at Bhubaneswar, Odisha on January 9, 2025. The theme for this year was the “Diaspora’s contribution to a Viksit Bharat”. 

About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)

  • Initiated: 2003 by the Government of India under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
  • Frequency: Celebrated biennially on January 9th.
  • Significance of the Date:
    • Marks Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa in 1915.
    • Symbolizes the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s development and freedom struggle.
  • The primary goals of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are:
    • To commemorate the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s development
    • To create a better understanding of India abroad
    • To support India’s causes and work for the welfare of local Indian communities worldwide
    • To provide a platform for overseas Indians to engage with the government and people of their ancestral land.  
  • Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award: An award called The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is given out as part of the programme. 
    • It is the highest honour conferred on a Non-Resident Indian, Person of Indian Origin; or an organisation or institution established and run by them.
  • Key Initiatives in 2025
    • Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana: Special trains for diaspora tourists to explore India’s heritage.
    • Diaspora Heritage Documentation: Efforts to preserve stories of migration (e.g., Mandvi to Muscat).
    • Thrust on Technology: Highlighting diaspora contributions in tech innovations.
    • Cultural Outreach: Emphasis on Ramayana, Odisha’s heritage, and Tamil cultural connections (e.g., Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centers).

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About Diaspora

  • The term “diaspora” is derived from the Greek words dia (meaning “through”) and speiro (meaning “to scatter”), signifying dispersion or scattering.
  • Initially, the term was used exclusively for the Jewish dispersion, but now it applies to any group maintaining cultural identity despite being scattered across different regions.
  • The key elements of a diaspora include collective memory, cultural retention, integration into host societies, and a persistent sense of connection to the homeland.

Historical Evolution of Indian Diaspora

Indian Diaspora

  • Ancient Migration: The first recorded migration from India was the movement of the Romani people from Rajasthan to Eastern Europe during the 1st century AD.
    • Around 500 AD, the Chola Empire facilitated migration to Southeast Asia, influencing regions such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
  • Colonial Era (19th–20th Century): The Old Diaspora began during the early 19th century, following the abolition of slavery in 1833, and lasted until the mid-20th century.
    • The indentured labor system transported Indians to work in sugar and rubber plantations in colonies like Mauritius, Trinidad, Fiji, and Suriname. This system was abolished in 1916, but by then over 1.5 million Indians had migrated.
  • New Diaspora (Post-1960s): The New Diaspora began after the 1960s and involved migration to developed countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, driven by demand for skilled professionals.
    • Policies such as the Hart-Celler Act (1965) in the US and the Points System (1968) in Canada facilitated skilled immigration.
  • Gulf Diaspora (Post-1970s): The Gulf Diaspora emerged during the 1970s oil boom, with semi-skilled and unskilled labor migrating to Gulf countries under temporary contractual schemes.
    • This group faced limited rights and no naturalization policies in host countries.
  • Modern Period: Globalization and advancements in technology spurred skilled migration.
    • India’s IT boom of the 1990s significantly contributed to Indian migration to countries like the USA.

Categories of Indian Diaspora

The Indian diaspora can also be categorized based on legal definitions and their connection to India, such as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs)

  • Non-Resident Indian (NRI)

    • Definition: An Indian citizen who resides outside India for employment, business, or any other purpose for an uncertain duration.
    • Key Characteristics:
      • Holds an Indian passport.
      • Enjoys voting rights and the ability to purchase property in India (except agricultural land).
      • Tax liability depends on the duration of their stay in India (less than 182 days in a financial year to maintain NRI status).
  • Person of Indian Origin (PIO)

    • Definition: A foreign citizen (other than Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal) who:
      • At any time held an Indian passport, or
      • Is the child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of an Indian citizen, or
      • Is a spouse of an Indian citizen or a PIO.
    • Key Characteristics:
      • PIO status was merged with OCI in 2015; all PIO cardholders are now considered OCIs.
      • Earlier, PIOs had limited access to India-specific benefits compared to OCIs.

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  • Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)

    • Definition: A foreign national of Indian origin who is registered as an OCI cardholder under Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955.
    • Key Characteristics:
      • OCI cardholders enjoy visa-free travel to India and other benefits such as property ownership (except agricultural land).
      • Cannot vote, hold public office, or take government jobs in India.
      • Merged with the PIO scheme in 2015 to streamline privileges.

Comparison of NRI, PIO, and OCI

Feature NRI PIO (Merged into OCI) OCI
Definition Indian citizens residing abroad. Foreign citizen of Indian origin. Foreign nationals registered as OCI.
Citizenship Indian passport holder. Held foreign citizenship and PIO card. Foreign citizenship; OCI cardholder.
Voting Rights Yes No No
Government Jobs Yes No No
Visa Requirement Not required Required earlier; now merged into OCI. Visa-free lifelong entry to India.
Eligibility for Citizenship Already an Indian citizen. 7 years’ residence in India. 5 years as OCI and 1 year residence.

Significance of the Indian Diaspora

The Indian diaspora, with over 35 million individuals spread across 125 countries, plays a crucial role in shaping India’s global influence, economy, and cultural heritage.

  • Economic Contributions

    • Remittances: India received $129.1 billion (14.3% of global remittances) in remittances in 2024, which was the highest ever for a country in a single year. 
      • Remittances from countries like the USA, UAE, and the UK help alleviate poverty, fund education, and support infrastructure in India, especially in states like Kerala and Punjab.
    • Trade and Investment: Diaspora members facilitate trade and promote investments in India.
      • Indian-American entrepreneurs, such as Sundar Pichai (Google) and Satya Nadella (Microsoft), contribute to India’s tech partnerships and global branding.
    • Labor Force and Foreign Exchange: Workers in the Gulf contribute significantly to India’s foreign exchange reserves.
      • Example: The Gulf diaspora, primarily from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, sends billions in remittances annually.

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  • Cultural Diplomacy

    • Promotion of Indian Culture: The diaspora actively preserves and promotes Indian traditions, languages, festivals, yoga, and Ayurveda worldwide.
      • Example: Ramlila performances in Indonesia, Diwali celebrations in the UK Parliament, and International Yoga Day events globally highlight India’s cultural heritage.
    • Global Recognition: Diaspora contributions have led to recognition of Indian practices.
      • Example: UNESCO’s inclusion of yoga as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage.
    • Representation in Arts and Literature: Indian-origin artists and writers enhance India’s cultural image.
      • Example: Writers like Salman Rushdie and Jhumpa Lahiri bring Indian narratives to the global stage.
  • Political Influence

    • Lobbying for India’s Interests: The diaspora lobbies host governments for policies favorable to India.
      • Example: Indian-American organizations advocated for the US-India nuclear deal in 2008.
    • Representation in Host Countries: Indian-origin leaders hold key political positions, showcasing India’s influence.
      • Example: Kamala Harris (USA), Rishi Sunak (UK), and António Costa (Portugal).
    • Diplomatic Bridges: The diaspora strengthens India’s bilateral relations with host countries.
      • Example: In Canada, the Indian diaspora contributes to robust trade and cultural ties.
  • Social and Knowledge Contributions

    • Human Capital and Expertise: Skilled Indian professionals enhance global industries while strengthening India’s reputation for talent.
      • Example: Indian doctors and nurses are integral to healthcare systems in the UK and USA.
    • Knowledge Transfer: Diaspora members share expertise and promote innovation in India.
      • Example: The Global Innovation and Technology Alliance facilitates knowledge sharing between Indian-origin professionals abroad and startups in India.
    • Philanthropy and Education: Diaspora organizations fund social welfare and educational initiatives in India.
      • Example: The American India Foundation (AIF) supports educational programs and disaster relief in India.
  • Global Image Building

    • Enhancing India’s Soft Power: Diaspora success stories highlight India’s potential as a global leader in innovation and culture.
      • Example: Indian-origin CEOs like Sundar Pichai and Indra Nooyi (PepsiCo) improve India’s global image.
    • Countering Stereotypes: The diaspora challenges outdated perceptions of India as a developing nation.
      • Example: The Indian community’s economic and social achievements in the USA and UK reinforce India’s modern identity.

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  • Strategic and Diplomatic Significance

    • Strengthening Global Alliances: The diaspora helps advance India’s foreign policy goals.
      • Example: Diaspora lobbying contributed to India’s support for the African Union’s G20 membership.
    • Crisis Support: Diaspora contributions during crises demonstrate solidarity with India.
      • Example: During COVID-19, Indian-origin communities abroad sent medical supplies, oxygen concentrators, and financial aid.
    • Strategic Presence: Large Indian communities in countries like the USA, UAE, and the UK serve as valuable assets in India’s global engagements.

Challenges Faced by the Indian Diaspora

  • Social Challenges

    • Discrimination and Racism: Many diaspora members face racial prejudice and xenophobia in host countries.
      • Example: Indian students in Australia experienced racially motivated attacks in 2009–2010.
    • Integration Issues: Cultural differences and stereotypes hinder integration into the host society.
      • Example: Diaspora communities in Europe often face barriers in blending with local cultures due to language and traditions.
    • Identity Crisis: Younger generations often struggle to balance their Indian heritage with the culture of their host country.
      • Example: Indian-origin youth in the USA sometimes experience identity conflicts between their Indian upbringing and American lifestyle.
    • Lack of Political Representation: In many countries, Indians lack sufficient political voice to address community issues.
      • Example: In Gulf nations, Indian workers have no voting rights or political representation.
    • Restrictive Immigration Policies: Host countries periodically tighten visa and immigration laws.
      • Example: The USA has imposed restrictions on the H-1B visa program, affecting skilled Indian professionals.
    • Legal Restrictions: Indian-origin individuals in Gulf countries face limited rights to own property or attain citizenship.
      • Example: Migrants in Saudi Arabia cannot acquire citizenship, regardless of how long they reside there.
  • Geopolitical Challenges

    • Impact of Global Conflicts: Diaspora communities often face hostility in host countries during geopolitical crises.
      • Example: Indian students in Ukraine faced severe hardships during the Russia-Ukraine war, requiring evacuation.
    • Polarization in Host Countries: Rising nationalism and xenophobia in Western nations, as seen in Brexit-era UK or during the US-China trade war, have created challenges for Indian-origin communities.

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  • Economic Challenges

    • Exploitation in Employment: Migrant workers, particularly in the Gulf, face poor working conditions, low wages, and limited job security.
      • Example: Construction workers in Qatar have reported exploitative practices under the Kafala system.
    • Brain Drain: Skilled professionals migrating abroad lead to a loss of talent in critical sectors within India.
      • Example: India faces shortages of healthcare workers due to the emigration of doctors and nurses to developed countries.
  • Cultural Challenges

    • Erosion of Heritage: The younger diaspora generations often lose touch with Indian culture, language, and traditions.
      • Example: Indian-origin communities in Trinidad and Fiji report challenges in preserving Hindi and Tamil languages.
    • Cultural Conflicts: Host communities sometimes perceive Indian cultural practices as alien or outdated.
      • Example: Practices such as arranged marriages and vegetarianism can create misunderstandings in Western societies.
  • Challenges with India

    • Limited Government Support: Indian missions abroad are sometimes criticized for inadequate support to distressed diaspora members.
      • Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were delays in repatriating stranded Indian workers from Gulf countries.
    • Inconsistent Policy Frameworks: Lack of clear policies to address the needs of overseas Indians and streamline their investments or contributions.
      • Example: PIO and OCI schemes caused confusion before they were merged in 2015.
    • High Costs of Remittance Transfers: Transaction fees for sending remittances to India remain high, especially for low-income workers.
  • Know India Program (KIP): Aims to connect diaspora youth (18–30 years) with their Indian roots through educational and cultural programs.
  • India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians (IDF-OI): Encourages philanthropic contributions from the diaspora for social and development projects in India.
  • E-Migrate Portal: Simplifies and regulates overseas employment for Indian workers, particularly in Gulf countries.
  • Vande Bharat Mission (VBM): A massive repatriation initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic to bring stranded Indians back from abroad.
  • Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana:
    • Organizes pilgrimage tours for older members of the diaspora to visit significant religious and cultural sites in India.
  • Inter-Governmental Labour Migration Agreements: These agreements provide an overarching framework for cooperation on labor and manpower issues. 
    • They also include provisions for implementation through a Joint Working Group, where worker-related issues are discussed in periodic meetings.
  • Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY): It is an insurance scheme available to all Indian workers emigrating from India, requiring a nominal premium payment made to insurance companies.

Way Forward for Strengthening Diaspora Engagement

  • Strengthen Consular Support: Enhance services through Indian embassies, especially for workers in Gulf countries, to address issues like exploitation and emergencies.
  • Promote Diaspora Investments: Create incentives and streamlined procedures for diaspora-led investments in India, particularly in infrastructure and startups.
  • Cultural and Educational Outreach: Expand programs like the Know India Program (KIP) and Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz to involve younger generations in Indian culture and heritage.
  • Policy Alignment: Develop a comprehensive diaspora policy to address their needs, simplify OCI-related issues, and ensure effective implementation.
  • Leveraging Soft Power: Utilize the diaspora’s achievements in fields like IT, healthcare, and politics to enhance India’s global influence and soft power.
  • Collaboration in Skill Development: Partner with host countries for skilling initiatives to ensure the diaspora remains competitive in global markets.

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Conclusion

The Indian diaspora is a vital bridge between India and the world, contributing to economic growth, cultural preservation, and global influence. In the context of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas 2025, celebrating the diaspora’s role in shaping a “Viksit Bharat” reinforces India’s commitment to engaging with its global community while acknowledging their invaluable contributions.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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