Q. In what ways has the Indian diaspora influenced the global perception of India, and how has this perception benefitted India’s international standing? (150 words, 10 Marks)

September 1, 2023 14

GS Paper II International Relations

Answer:

Approach:

Introduction: Define the Indian diaspora and briefly mention its significance in influencing the global perception of India.
Body:
- Discuss the various ways the Indian diaspora has influenced the global perception of India.
- Discuss how this perception has benefitted India’s international standing.
- Do provide relevant examples.
Conclusion: Conclude, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the diaspora to leverage these benefits fully and enhance India’s global standing further.

Introduction:

The Indian diaspora, which is one of the largest in the world, has had a significant impact on the global perception of India. This diaspora consists of people of Indian descent living outside India, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). Over the years, the Indian diaspora has influenced the global perception of India in various ways, thereby contributing to India’s international standing. A UN Report – ‘International Migration 2020 Highlights’ by UNDESA (UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs) said that the Indian Diaspora (18 million residing outside India in 2020) is the largest in the world.

Body:

Influencing Global Perception:

Contribution to Economy:
- Indian diaspora members, like Sundar Pichai (CEO of Google) and Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), hold influential positions in global corporations, thereby contributing to the perception of Indians as successful and influential.
Cultural Diplomacy:
- The celebration of Indian festivals like Diwali and Holi by the Indian diaspora helps in promoting Indian culture globally.
Representation in Politics:
- The election of Kamala Harris, whose mother was of Indian origin, as the Vice President of the United States, enhanced the global perception of Indians in politics.

Benefitting India’s International Standing:

Investment and Remittances:
- The Indian diaspora sent back remittances worth $83 billion in 2020, which is the highest in the world and contributes significantly to India’s foreign exchange reserves and GDP.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations:
- The Indian diaspora in the United States has played a crucial role in strengthening India-US relations, particularly in terms of trade and strategic partnerships.
Advocacy and Lobbying:
- The Indian diaspora has advocated for India’s interests in their respective countries, for instance, by lobbying for India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council.
Promoting Tourism:
- The diaspora plays a role in promoting India as a tourist destination among their local communities, thereby contributing to the growth of the tourism sector.

Conclusion:

The Indian diaspora has played a pivotal role in shaping the global perception of India as a land of successful, influential, and culturally rich people. This perception has benefitted India’s international standing by contributing to the economy through remittances, strengthening bilateral relations, advocating for India’s interests, and promoting tourism. It is important for India to maintain a strong relationship with its diaspora to leverage these benefits fully and enhance its global standing further.