Why in the News?

At the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), the Prime Minister called the Indian diaspora “ambassadors to the world.” He praised them for blending into local societies, helping communities, and contributing to India’s progress.

Why do celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event organized by the Ministry of External Affairs to honor the achievements and contributions of Indians living abroad.
This celebration is held every two years on January 9, marking the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi, regarded as the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa to lead the country’s freedom movement.
Since 2015, the event has been held biennially, with theme-based conferences organized during the intervening years.
The location of the convention changes to showcase the progress and diversity of different regions in India.

Who are the Girmitiyas?

The Girmitiyas were indentured laborers from British India who were transported during the 19th and early 20th centuries to work on plantations in various countries.
The term “Girmitiyas” originates from the Indian pronunciation of the English word “agreement”, referencing the contracts they signed.
The Girmitiyas were sent to places such as Fiji, Mauritius, Seychelles, Reunion, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, British Guiana (now Guyana), Suriname, Malaysia, and Kenya.
These laborers were bound by contracts, called Girmits (agreements), which required them to work for a single employer at a fixed wage for a period of 3 to 5 years.

What are the challenges faced by Indians abroad?

Increasing Visa Restrictions: Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have implemented stricter immigration policies, particularly affecting skilled Indian workers.
- For instance, during Donald Trump’s presidency, uncertainties surrounding H-1B visas created significant anxiety among Indian professionals seeking employment in the U.S. This has led to a perception that Indian workers are being unfairly targeted as competition for local jobs.

Global Conflicts: Many Indians work in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where job security is often threatened by volatile oil prices and changing labour laws.
- For example, “Saudisation” policies in Saudi Arabia have forced many Indian workers to return home unexpectedly, leading to economic hardship.
- Additionally, ongoing conflicts in regions like Iraq and Syria pose risks to the safety of Indians living and working there.

Political Vulnerability: The Indian government’s recent actions to revoke Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards from individuals critical of its policies have created a climate of fear among the diaspora. This has raised concerns about freedom of expression and political rights for those living abroad, making many feel vulnerable and unce.

What role does the Indian diaspora play in India’s global influence?

Economic Contributions: The Indian diaspora plays a crucial role in India’s economy through substantial remittances, which totalled approximately $108 billion in 2022. These funds significantly contribute to poverty reduction and economic stability in India.Example: Remittances from the UAE
Political Influence: Many individuals of Indian origin hold prominent political positions in various countries, enhancing India’s political clout on global platforms such as the United Nations.Example: Kamala Harris
Cultural Diplomacy: The diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors, promoting Indian traditions, values, and soft power globally through initiatives like yoga, Bollywood cinema, and festivals.Example: International Day of Yoga
Networking Opportunities: The diaspora serves as a bridge between India and other nations, facilitating trade relations and foreign direct investment (FDI), thereby enhancing India’s global economic standing.

What are the steps taken by the government?

Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs: Established in 2004, this ministry was created to specifically address issues faced by the Indian diaspora. It was later merged with the Ministry of External Affairs in 2016 to streamline efforts and enhance synergy in engaging with the diaspora.
Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas: Celebrated annually since 2003, this event recognizes the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s progress and fosters a sense of connection between Indians abroad and their homeland.
Know India Programme (KIP): This initiative aims to familiarize youth of Indian origin with contemporary India through a three-week orientation program. It provides exposure to various aspects of Indian culture, economy, and society.
Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Launched to enhance the skills of Indian workers going abroad, this scheme provides training on laws, language, and culture relevant to their destination countries.
Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC): This program offers scholarships for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and Non-Resident Indian (NRI) students pursuing undergraduate courses in India
Proxy Voting for NRIs: The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill 2017 allows NRIs to participate in elections through proxy voting, enhancing their engagement in India’s democratic processes.

How can India better engage with its diaspora? (Way forward)

Inclusive Policies: The Indian government should adopt inclusive and non-partisan policies that foster a sense of belonging among all members of the diaspora, regardless of their political views.
Addressing Concerns: Proactively addressing issues such as visa restrictions and safety concerns in conflict zones can enhance trust and cooperation between the diaspora and the Indian government.
Leveraging Expertise: India can better engage its diaspora by tapping into their expertise in various fields, encouraging knowledge transfer, investment in startups, and collaboration on technological innovations.
Cultural Exchange Programs: Promoting cultural initiatives that celebrate Indian heritage can strengthen ties between India and its diaspora, fostering a sense of identity and community.

Mains PYQ:

Q ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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