Answer

The Indian diaspora, comprising over 32 million individuals worldwide, significantly contributes to India’s development. In 2022, they remitted a record $110 billion, the highest globally, bolstering India’s economy.Their roles as cultural ambassadors and economic contributors underscore the importance of inclusive engagement to strengthen ties and ensure mutual benefits.

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Representation and Contribution of the Indian Diaspora as India’s ‘Ambassadors’

• Cultural Representation: The diaspora showcases India’s rich culture, traditions, and values, building a positive image globally and fostering respect for Indian heritage.
  For example: Indian festivals like Diwali are celebrated in countries like the U.S. and UK, promoting Indian culture and creating cultural diplomacy.
• Economic Contributions: They contribute through remittances, investments, and acting as intermediaries in trade, boosting India’s economic development.
  For example: In 2022, India received $111 billion in remittances, the highest globally, aiding families and local economies.
• Political Influence: Indian-origin leaders in global politics advocate for India’s interests, enhancing India’s international relations and diplomatic standing.
  For example: Leaders like Rishi Sunak in the UK and Kamala Harris in the U.S. reinforce India’s image internationally.
• Technological Advancement: Diaspora professionals contribute to global tech hubs while facilitating knowledge exchange and innovation in India.
  For example: CEOs like Sundar Pichai (Google) and Satya Nadella (Microsoft) highlight Indian talent globally.
• Philanthropic Efforts: The diaspora supports healthcare, education, and disaster relief in India, demonstrating a commitment to their roots.
  For example: The American India Foundation funds education and livelihood projects across rural India.

Need for Inclusive Engagement with the Diaspora

• Promoting Non-Partisanship: Avoiding political bias fosters a sense of belonging and encourages participation in India’s development.
  For example: Revoking OCI cards of critics, as observed in recent years, harms mutual trust and inclusivity.
• Addressing Migration Challenges: Ensuring safer migration processes and addressing visa issues due to populist policies in host countries is crucial.
  For example: Indians faced stricter H1-B visa norms in the U.S., requiring diplomatic intervention.
• Safeguarding in Conflict Zones: Proactive measures are needed for diaspora safety during global conflicts, particularly in regions like West Asia.
  For example: India evacuated 7,000 citizens during the Sudan crisis, ensuring their safety amid turmoil.
• Economic Integration: Encouraging diaspora investments and collaboration in infrastructure and innovation strengthens India’s growth trajectory.
  For example: The Vibrant Gujarat Summit actively engages NRIs for investment and development opportunities.
• Celebrating Achievements: Acknowledging diaspora contributions fosters goodwill and motivates further engagement in India’s progress.
  For example: The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards celebrate contributions in varied fields like science and business.

Indian Diaspora’s Issues

• Visa and Entry Restrictions: Indian nationals face stricter visa and entry policies in many Western countries due to rising far-right populism and immigration controls.
  For example: H-1B visa restrictions in the U.S. have significantly impacted Indian IT professionals seeking work opportunities abroad.
• Safety in Conflict Zones: Indians in conflict-prone regions such as West Asia face risks from political instability, violence, and economic downturns.
  For example: Evacuations during the Ukraine-Russia conflict showcased the precarious situation of Indians in such regions.
• Discrimination Abroad: Diaspora members often encounter racism, xenophobia, and workplace discrimination, which hinders their social integration and professional growth.
  For example: Reports of hate crimes against Indians in countries like the U.S. and UK highlight ongoing challenges.
• Revocation of OCI Cards: Criticism of the Indian government has led to perceived political partisanship in dealing with the diaspora, including the denial or revocation of OCI cards.
  For example: Revocation of OCI status for Amrit Singh, a U.S.-based lawyer, for perceived anti-government comments.
• Lack of Comprehensive Welfare: Limited mechanisms for addressing the welfare of Indian workers in low-paying jobs abroad, especially in the Gulf countries.
  For example: Many Indian laborers in the Gulf face poor working conditions and inadequate grievance redressal mechanisms.

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Measures Taken by the Indian Government

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD): Annual event celebrating the diaspora’s achievements and facilitating dialogue on issues of mutual interest.
  For example: The 18th PBD in Odisha engaged over 3,000 delegates to strengthen ties and discuss India’s development agenda.
• Welfare and Evacuation Efforts: Initiatives such as Vande Bharat Mission and Operation Ganga demonstrate the government’s focus on ensuring the safety of Indians in conflict zones.
  For example: Vande Bharat Mission successfully repatriated millions of Indians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Digital Outreach and OCI Reforms: Introduction of streamlined processes for OCI card applications and grievance redressal mechanisms for faster resolution.
  For example: The MHA’s online portal for OCI grievances addresses issues more effectively for diaspora members.
• Economic Engagement Policies: Programs like Make in India and Viksit Bharat aim to leverage diaspora investment and expertise for national development.
  For example: Diaspora investments in Silicon Valley partnerships have boosted India’s startup ecosystem.
• Bilateral Agreements for Labor Welfare: India has signed agreements with Gulf nations to ensure better working conditions and rights for Indian workers.
  For example: The India-UAE labor agreement (2018) improved employment conditions for Indian workers in the UAE.

The Indian diaspora, with its cultural and economic contributions, is a vital pillar of India’s global presence. Strengthening ties through inclusive engagement, addressing their challenges, and leveraging their potential can enhance India’s soft power and development goals. Continued efforts like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and targeted policies ensure mutual growth and promote deeper national and global integration.