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India's 35.4mn-strong diaspora boosts economy and culture
Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita pointed out the Indian government’s ongoing efforts to harness the full potential of the Indian diaspora.
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India’s diaspora, the largest in the world with 35.4 million people, plays a crucial role in strengthening economic and cultural ties with key regions, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita informed the Lok Sabha on Mar.28.
Responding to a question on regional strategic cooperation, Margherita highlighted the government’s initiatives to deepen diplomatic and economic relations in the Gulf, Middle East, and North Africa (MENA) regions, emphasizing the diaspora’s role as a bridge in these efforts.
“The 35.4 million-strong Overseas Indian community, comprising 15.9 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and 19.5 million Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), is an invaluable partner in the nation’s progress,” Margherita stated. He underscored the diaspora’s contributions through remittances, trade, investment, cultural exchanges, and the transfer of expertise and knowledge, calling them an essential link in advancing India’s global interests.
Margherita stressed the government’s ongoing efforts to harness the full potential of the Indian diaspora. “A successful, prosperous, and influential diaspora is an asset to India. By strengthening engagement with overseas Indians, the country stands to gain significantly through enhanced economic cooperation and the soft power that comes from a thriving global community,” he said.
Expanding strategic cooperation
The minister outlined India’s ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening political, economic, and security ties in the Gulf, MENA, and Mediterranean regions. “India has leveraged its diplomatic efforts to establish multifaceted strategic partnerships with several countries, focusing on economic growth, energy security, technological innovation, and infrastructure development,” he said.
As part of these efforts, India is a key participant in the I2U2 initiative—a partnership with Israel, the UAE, and the USA—focused on enhancing cooperation in water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food security. “Through such collaborations, India is mobilizing private sector capital and expertise to modernize infrastructure, decarbonize industries, and promote the development of emerging technologies,” he added.
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