{"id":151022,"date":"2025-01-10T19:47:46","date_gmt":"2025-01-10T14:17:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/?post_type=current-affairs&#038;p=151022"},"modified":"2025-01-10T19:49:03","modified_gmt":"2025-01-10T14:19:03","slug":"indian-diaspora","status":"publish","type":"current-affairs","link":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/current-affairs\/indian-diaspora","title":{"rendered":"Indian Diaspora"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Prime Minister inaugurated the <\/span><b>18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at Bhubaneswar, Odisha on January 9, 2025. The theme for this year was the \u201c<\/span><b>Diaspora\u2019s contribution to a Viksit Bharat\u201d.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Initiated:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 2003 by the Government of India under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Frequency:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Celebrated biennially on <\/span><b>January 9th<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Significance of the Date:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marks Mahatma Gandhi&#8217;s return to India from<\/span><b> South Africa in 1915.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symbolizes the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India&#8217;s development and freedom struggle.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>primary goals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To commemorate the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India&#8217;s development<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To create a better understanding of India abroad<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To support India&#8217;s causes and work for the welfare of local Indian communities worldwide<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To provide a platform for overseas Indians to engage with the government and people of their ancestral land.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An award called The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is given out as part of the programme.\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is the <\/span><b>highest<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> honour conferred on a <\/span><b>Non-Resident Indian, Person of Indian Origin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; or an organisation or institution established and run by them.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Key Initiatives in 2025<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Special trains for diaspora tourists to explore India\u2019s heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Diaspora Heritage Documentation:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Efforts to preserve stories of migration (e.g., Mandvi to Muscat).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Thrust on Technology:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Highlighting diaspora contributions in tech innovations.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Cultural Outreach:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Emphasis on Ramayana, Odisha\u2019s heritage, and Tamil cultural connections (e.g., Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centers).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pw.live\/batches\/upsc?utm_source=seo+upsc+batch&#038;utm_medium=seo+upsc&#038;utm_campaign=seo&#038;utm_id=upsc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enroll now for UPSC Online Course<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>About Diaspora<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The term &#8220;diaspora&#8221; is derived from the <\/span><b>Greek words <\/b><b><i>dia<\/i><\/b><b> (meaning &#8220;through&#8221;)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">s<\/span><\/i><b><i>peiro<\/i><\/b><b> (meaning &#8220;to scatter&#8221;)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, signifying dispersion or scattering.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Initially, the term was used exclusively for the<\/span><b> Jewish dispersion,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> but now it applies to any group maintaining cultural identity despite being scattered across different regions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>key elements<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of a diaspora include collective memory, cultural retention, integration into host societies, and a persistent sense of connection to the homeland.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Historical Evolution of Indian Diaspora<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-151001 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/101-67811fffbfc02.webp\" alt=\"Indian Diaspora\" width=\"451\" height=\"446\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/101-67811fffbfc02.webp 677w, https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/101-67811fffbfc02-300x297.webp 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 451px) 100vw, 451px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Ancient Migration: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first recorded migration from India was the movement of the <\/span><b>Romani people from Rajasthan to Eastern Europe<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during the <\/span><b>1st century AD.<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Around <\/span><b>500 AD, the Chola Empire <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">facilitated migration to Southeast Asia, influencing regions such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Cambodia.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Colonial Era (19th\u201320th Century): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Old Diaspora began during the<\/span><b> early 19th century<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, following the <\/span><b>abolition of slavery in 1833<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and lasted until the mid-20th century.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>indentured labor system<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> transported Indians to work in sugar and rubber plantations in colonies like <\/span><b>Mauritius, Trinidad, Fiji, and Suriname.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This system was <\/span><b>abolished in 1916<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but by then over 1.5 million Indians had migrated.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>New Diaspora (Post-1960s): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Policies such as the <\/span><b>Hart-Celler Act (1965) in the US <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and the Points System (1968) in Canada facilitated skilled immigration.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Gulf Diaspora (Post-1970s): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Gulf Diaspora emerged during the <\/span><b>1970s oil boom, with semi-skilled and unskilled labor<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> migrating to Gulf countries under temporary contractual schemes.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This group faced limited rights and no naturalization policies in host countries.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Modern Period: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Globalization and advancements in technology spurred skilled migration.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India&#8217;s <\/span><b>IT boom of the 1990s <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">significantly contributed to Indian migration to countries like the USA.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Categories of Indian Diaspora<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Indian diaspora can also be categorized based on legal definitions and their connection to India, such as <\/span><b>Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Non-Resident Indian (NRI)<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Definition:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> An Indian citizen who resides outside India for employment, business, or any other purpose for an uncertain duration.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Key Characteristics:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Holds an <\/span><b>Indian passport<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enjoys voting rights and the ability to purchase property in India (except agricultural land).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tax liability depends on the duration of their stay in India (less than 182 days in a financial year to maintain NRI status).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Person of Indian Origin (PIO)<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Definition:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A foreign citizen (other than Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal) who:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At any time held an Indian passport, or<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is the child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of an Indian citizen, or<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is a spouse of an Indian citizen or a PIO.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Key Characteristics:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PIO status was merged with OCI in 2015; all PIO cardholders are now considered OCIs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Earlier, PIOs had limited access to India-specific benefits compared to OCIs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+CSE+Books\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Definition:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A foreign national of Indian origin who is registered as an OCI cardholder under Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Key Characteristics:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">OCI cardholders enjoy <\/span><b>visa-free travel<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to India and other benefits such as property ownership (except agricultural land).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cannot vote, hold public office, or take government jobs in India.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Merged with the PIO scheme in 2015 to streamline privileges.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 16pt;\"><b>Comparison of NRI, PIO, and OCI<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"vc_table_green\"><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 99.7979%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Feature<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 22.8916%;\"><b>NRI<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 28.1124%;\"><b>PIO (Merged into OCI)<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 27.9281%;\"><b>OCI<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Definition<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.8916%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian citizens residing abroad.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.1124%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreign citizen of Indian origin.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27.9281%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreign nationals registered as OCI.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Citizenship<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.8916%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian passport holder.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.1124%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Held foreign citizenship and PIO card.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27.9281%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreign citizenship; OCI cardholder.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Voting Rights<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.8916%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.1124%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27.9281%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Government Jobs<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.8916%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.1124%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27.9281%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Visa Requirement<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.8916%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not required<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.1124%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Required earlier; now merged into OCI.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27.9281%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visa-free lifelong entry to India.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 21.5863%;\"><b>Eligibility for Citizenship<\/b><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.8916%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Already an Indian citizen.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 28.1124%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7 years&#8217; residence in India.<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27.9281%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5 years as OCI and 1 year residence.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><\/div>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Significance of the Indian Diaspora<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Indian diaspora, with over 35 million individuals spread across 125 countries, plays a crucial role in shaping India&#8217;s global influence, economy, and cultural heritage.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Economic Contributions<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Remittances: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India received <\/span><b>$129.1 billion (14.3% of global remittances)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in remittances in <\/span><b>2024<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which was the highest ever for a country in a single year.\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remittances from countries like the <\/span><b>USA, UAE, and the UK<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> help alleviate poverty, fund education, and support infrastructure in India, especially in states like <\/span><b>Kerala and Punjab.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Trade and Investment: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaspora members facilitate trade and promote investments in India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Indian-American entrepreneurs,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as Sundar Pichai (Google) and Satya Nadella (Microsoft), contribute to India\u2019s tech partnerships and global branding.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Labor Force and Foreign Exchange: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Workers in the Gulf contribute significantly to India&#8217;s foreign exchange reserves.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The Gulf diaspora, primarily from <\/span><b>Kerala and Tamil Nadu<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, sends billions in remittances annually.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-textbooks?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Textbooks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Cultural Diplomacy<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Promotion of Indian Culture: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diaspora actively preserves and promotes <\/span><b>Indian traditions, languages, festivals, yoga, and Ayurveda <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">worldwide.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b> <b>Ramlila performances in Indonesia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Diwali celebrations in the UK Parliament, and<\/span><b> International Yoga Day events<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> globally highlight India\u2019s cultural heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Global Recognition: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaspora contributions have led to recognition of Indian practices.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> UNESCO\u2019s inclusion of yoga as part of the<\/span><b> world\u2019s intangible cultural heritage.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Representation in Arts and Literature: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian-origin artists and writers enhance India&#8217;s cultural image.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Writers like <\/span><b>Salman Rushdie and Jhumpa Lahiri <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">bring Indian narratives to the global stage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Political Influence<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Lobbying for India\u2019s Interests: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diaspora lobbies host governments for policies favorable to India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian-American organizations advocated for the <\/span><b>US-India nuclear deal<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in 2008.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Representation in Host Countries: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian-origin leaders hold key political positions, showcasing India\u2019s influence.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Kamala Harris (USA), Rishi Sunak (UK), and Ant\u00f3nio Costa (Portugal).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Diplomatic Bridges: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diaspora strengthens India\u2019s bilateral relations with host countries.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In Canada, the Indian diaspora contributes to robust trade and cultural ties.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Social and Knowledge Contributions<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Human Capital and Expertise: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skilled Indian professionals enhance global industries while strengthening India\u2019s reputation for talent.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian doctors and nurses are integral to healthcare systems in the UK and USA.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Knowledge Transfer: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaspora members share expertise and promote innovation in India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The <\/span><b>Global Innovation and Technology Alliance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> facilitates knowledge sharing between Indian-origin professionals abroad and startups in India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Philanthropy and Education: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaspora organizations fund social welfare and educational initiatives in India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The American India Foundation (AIF) supports educational programs and disaster relief in India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Global Image Building<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Enhancing India\u2019s Soft Power: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaspora success stories highlight India\u2019s potential as a global leader in innovation and culture.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian-origin CEOs like Sundar Pichai and Indra Nooyi (PepsiCo) improve India\u2019s global image.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Countering Stereotypes: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diaspora challenges outdated perceptions of India as a developing nation.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The Indian community\u2019s economic and social achievements in the USA and UK reinforce India\u2019s modern identity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-modules?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Modules\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Strategic and Diplomatic Significance<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Strengthening Global Alliances: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diaspora helps advance India\u2019s foreign policy goals.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Diaspora lobbying contributed to India\u2019s support for the <\/span><b>African Union\u2019s G20 membership<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Crisis Support: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diaspora contributions during crises demonstrate <\/span><b>solidarity with India<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> During <\/span><b>COVID-19<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Indian-origin communities abroad sent medical supplies, oxygen concentrators, and financial aid.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Strategic Presence: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Large Indian communities in countries like the USA, UAE, and the UK serve as <\/span><b>valuable assets <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">in India\u2019s global engagements.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Challenges Faced by the Indian Diaspora<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Social Challenges<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Discrimination and Racism: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many diaspora members face racial prejudice and xenophobia in host countries.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian students in Australia experienced racially motivated attacks in 2009\u20132010.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Integration Issues: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cultural differences and stereotypes hinder integration into the host society.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Diaspora communities in Europe often face barriers in blending with local cultures due to language and traditions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Identity Crisis: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Younger generations often struggle to balance their Indian heritage with the culture of their host country.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian-origin youth in the USA sometimes experience identity conflicts between their Indian upbringing and American lifestyle.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Political and Legal Challenges<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Lack of Political Representation: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In many countries, Indians lack sufficient political voice to address community issues.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In Gulf nations, Indian workers have no voting rights or political representation.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Restrictive Immigration Policies: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Host countries periodically tighten visa and immigration laws.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The USA has imposed restrictions on the H-1B visa program, affecting skilled Indian professionals.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Legal Restrictions: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian-origin individuals in Gulf countries face limited rights to own property or attain citizenship.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Migrants in Saudi Arabia cannot acquire citizenship, regardless of how long they reside there.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Geopolitical Challenges<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Impact of Global Conflicts:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Diaspora communities often face hostility in host countries during geopolitical crises.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian students in Ukraine faced severe hardships during the Russia-Ukraine war, requiring evacuation.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Polarization in Host Countries:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 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.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+CSE+Books\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Economic Challenges<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Exploitation in Employment: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Migrant workers, particularly in the Gulf, face poor working conditions, <\/span><b>low wages, and limited job security.<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Construction workers in Qatar have reported exploitative practices under the <\/span><b>Kafala system.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Brain Drain: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skilled professionals migrating abroad lead to a loss of talent in critical sectors within India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> India faces <\/span><b>shortages of healthcare workers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> due to the emigration of doctors and nurses to developed countries.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Cultural Challenges<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Erosion of Heritage: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The younger diaspora generations often l<\/span><b>ose touch with Indian culture<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, language, and traditions.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indian-origin communities in <\/span><b>Trinidad and Fiji<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> report challenges in preserving Hindi and Tamil languages.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Cultural Conflicts: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Host communities sometimes perceive Indian cultural practices as <\/span><b>alien or outdated<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Practices such as <\/span><b>arranged marriages and vegetarianism <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can create misunderstandings in Western societies.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Challenges with India<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Limited Government Support: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian missions abroad are sometimes criticized for <\/span><b>inadequate support <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to distressed diaspora members.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were delays in repatriating stranded Indian workers from Gulf countries.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Inconsistent Policy Frameworks: Lack of clear policies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to address the needs of overseas Indians and streamline their investments or contributions.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> PIO and OCI schemes caused <\/span><b>confusio<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">n before they were merged in 2015.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>High Costs of Remittance Transfers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transaction fees for sending remittances to India remain high, especially for low-income workers.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Key Initiatives of the Indian Government Related to the Indian Diaspora<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Know India Program (KIP): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aims to connect diaspora youth (18\u201330 years) with their Indian roots through educational and cultural programs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians (IDF-OI): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Encourages philanthropic contributions from the diaspora for social and development projects in India.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>E-Migrate Portal: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simplifies and regulates overseas employment for Indian workers, particularly in Gulf countries.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Vande Bharat Mission (VBM): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A massive repatriation initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic to bring stranded Indians back from abroad.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana:<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Organizes pilgrimage tours for older members of the diaspora to visit significant religious and cultural sites in India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Inter-Governmental Labour Migration Agreements: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These agreements provide an overarching framework for cooperation on labor and manpower issues.\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They also include provisions for implementation through a Joint Working Group, where worker-related issues are discussed in periodic meetings.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It is an insurance scheme available to all Indian workers emigrating from India, requiring a nominal premium payment made to insurance companies.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Way Forward for Strengthening Diaspora Engagement<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strengthen Consular Support: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enhance services through Indian embassies, especially for workers in Gulf countries, to address issues like exploitation and emergencies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Promote Diaspora Investments: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create incentives and streamlined procedures for diaspora-led investments in India, particularly in infrastructure and startups.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cultural and Educational Outreach: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expand programs like the <\/span><b>Know India Program (KIP)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to involve younger generations in Indian culture and heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Policy Alignment: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Develop a comprehensive diaspora policy to address their needs, simplify OCI-related issues, and ensure effective implementation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Leveraging Soft Power: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Utilize the diaspora\u2019s achievements in fields like IT, healthcare, and politics to enhance India\u2019s global influence and soft power.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Collaboration in Skill Development: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Partner with host countries for skilling initiatives to ensure the diaspora remains competitive in global markets.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pw.live\/batches\/upsc\/pw-only-ias?utm_source=seo+upsc+batch&#038;utm_medium=seo+upsc&#038;utm_campaign=seo&#038;utm_id=upsc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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\u2019s role in shaping a &#8220;Viksit Bharat&#8221; reinforces India\u2019s commitment to engaging with its global community while acknowledging their invaluable contributions.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"vc_table_green\"><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 99.6375%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 111.19%; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Also Read<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/editorial-analysis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>UPSC Daily Editorials<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/daily-current-affairs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>UPSC Daily Current Affairs<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/quiz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Daily Current Affairs Quiz<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/mains-answer-writing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Daily Main Answer Writing<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-previous-year-papers?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Previous+Year+Papers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/upsc-test-series-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>UPSC Test Series<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-textbooks?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Textbooks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-modules?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Modules\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store<\/b><\/a><b>\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Prime Minister inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention at Bhubaneswar, Odisha on January 9, 2025. The theme for this year was the \u201cDiaspora\u2019s contribution to a Viksit Bharat\u201d.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":151005,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_lock_modified_date":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"paper-wise":[2084],"subject":[2102],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs\/151022"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/current-affairs"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=151022"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs\/151022\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":151030,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs\/151022\/revisions\/151030"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/151005"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=151022"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=151022"},{"taxonomy":"paper-wise","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/paper-wise?post=151022"},{"taxonomy":"subject","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/subject?post=151022"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}