Answer: 

Introduction:

According to a Ministry of External Affairs report, there are 32 million NRIs and PIOs (inc. OCIs) residing outside India and overseas Indians comprise the world’s largest overseas diaspora. Every year 2.5 million (25 lakhs) Indians migrate overseas, which is the highest annual number of migrants in the world. India’s large diaspora is distributed across the United Arab Emirates (3.5 million), the United States of America (2.7 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.5 million). Other countries hosting large numbers of Indian migrants included Australia, Canada, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar and the United Kingdom.

• Economic contributions:
  • Investment and entrepreneurship: The Indian diaspora in Europe and America has made substantial investments and established successful businesses, generating employment opportunities. g, Indian entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley have contributed to the growth of the tech industry.
  • Remittances: The Indian diaspora constantly sends remittances back to India, providing a vital source of foreign exchange and supporting the country’s economic development. Remittances from Europe and America contribute significantly to India’s economy.
  • Trade: The Indian diaspora in Europe and America has facilitated the expansion of trade between India and these regions. They actively engage in promoting bilateral trade and attracting investments.
• Political contributions:
  • Representation: Indian diaspora members have achieved political representation in Europe and America. For instance, several Indian-origin politicians hold positions in the European Parliament and various levels of government in the United States.
  • Lobbying: The Indian diaspora in Europe and America actively engages in lobbying efforts to promote their interests and concerns. They advocate for policies that benefit both India and the diaspora community.
  • Influence: The Indian diaspora’s political contributions have had a significant impact on the politics of Europe and America. They leverage their influence to shape policies, especially regarding immigration, diversity, and bilateral relations with India.
• Examples:
  • In the United States, the Indian-American community played a pivotal role in the 2020 US Presidential elections. They organized voter outreach campaigns, fundraising initiatives, and mobilized support for candidate Joe Biden, who acknowledged and valued their contributions.
  • During the Brexit referendum campaign in the UK, the Indian diaspora actively participated in discussions, debates, and campaigns, expressing their perspectives on the impact of Brexit on trade, immigration, and cultural exchanges between India and the UK.
  • In Canada, the Indian diaspora has been vocal in advocating for immigrant rights and policies that support diverse communities. They have successfully influenced government decisions and policies that positively affect the Indian diaspora and other immigrant groups.

Conclusion:

The Indian diaspora has emerged as a powerful force, influencing the economic and political dimensions of America and European countries. The diaspora’s contributions have been instrumental in establishing India’s identity as a global player, thereby strengthening the country’s relations with the world.

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