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General Studies 1 >> World History

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PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS

PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS

 
 
1. Context
 
Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo will be the chief guest at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) program to be held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, officials said on Friday. Notably, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on 9th January since 2003 to mark the contribution of the Overseas Indian community in the development of India
 
A vibrant and artistic illustration depicting the theme of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and the Indian diaspora. The image features a globe at the center, with connections radiating from India to various countries, symbolizing the global reach of the diaspora. Surrounding the globe are diverse figures representing Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), showcasing their cultural and professional contributions. Include elements like cultural symbols (e.g., Indian flag, traditional attire, and landmarks like the Taj Mahal), along with modern elements like technology and business. The scene is celebratory, with bright colors and a festive atmosphere.
 
2. Pravasi Bhartiya Divas
 
  • In January 2002, a High-Level Committee on the Indian Diaspora, led by jurist and parliamentarian LM Singhvi, recommended that the government enhance and reinforce connections between overseas Indians and their homeland, as well as among themselves.

  • The committee also suggested the establishment of a Pravasi Bharatiya Bhavan to serve as a hub for fostering ties between India and its global Indian community and as a space to honor the experiences and contributions of the Indian diaspora. This led to the idea of dedicating a day for the government to acknowledge the diaspora, which was first celebrated in 2003.

  • January 9 was selected for the celebration as it marks the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, beginning his leadership in the freedom struggle and transforming the lives of Indians. Starting in 2015, which marked the centenary of Gandhi’s return, the event’s format was revised to be held every two years.

  • The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is being organized in collaboration with the Odisha State Government from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar. This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” highlights the enduring bond between India and its overseas Indian community

 
3. Classification of Overseas Indians
 
  • Overseas Indians are broadly divided into three groups: Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs).

  • NRIs are Indian nationals residing in other countries. In 2015, the PIO category was discontinued and integrated into the OCI category.

  • As per the Ministry of External Affairs, a PIO referred to a foreign citizen (excluding nationals of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal) who either previously held an Indian passport, had parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents born and permanently settled in India under the Government of India Act, 1935, or was married to an Indian citizen or a PIO.

  • The OCI category was introduced in 2006. OCI cards were issued to foreign nationals who qualified to become Indian citizens on January 26, 1950, were Indian citizens on or after that date, or belonged to territories that became part of India after August 15, 1947. Minor children of such individuals, except those with citizenship in Pakistan or Bangladesh, were also eligible for OCI cards

 
4. Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA)
 
  • The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is presented as part of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas programme. As stated on the official website, it is the highest recognition awarded to a Non-Resident Indian, a Person of Indian Origin, or an organization or institution established and managed by them.

  • The award acknowledges the Indian diaspora's contributions in promoting a better understanding of India internationally, advocating for India’s interests, and supporting the welfare of Indian communities abroad.

  • This year, 27 individuals and organizations from countries such as the US, Fiji, Guyana, Mauritius, Moldova, Myanmar, Russia, and Saudi Arabia will be recognized. President Droupadi Murmu will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman during the concluding session of the PBD Convention

 
5. History and Indian diaspora
 
  • The Indian diaspora has expanded significantly since the first group of Indians was sent to countries in the East Pacific and the Caribbean islands as indentured laborers under the ‘Girmitiya’ system.

  • During the 19th and early 20th centuries, thousands of Indians were transported to these regions to work on plantations in British colonies, which faced a labor shortage following the abolition of slavery in 1833-34.

  • In the second wave of migration, around 2 million Indians moved to Singapore and Malaysia to work on farms. The third and fourth waves saw professionals migrating to Western nations and workers heading to Gulf and West Asian countries, particularly during the oil boom.

  • Today, the Indian diaspora stands at over 35.4 million, comprising 19.5 million Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and 15.8 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The United States and the UAE host the largest diaspora groups, with over 2 million PIOs in the US and more than 3.5 million NRIs in the UAE. These communities continue to play a vital role in strengthening India’s economy and fostering international relations

 
6. Significance of Indian diaspora in global context
 
The Indian diaspora holds immense significance in the global context due to its size, diversity, and contributions to both their host countries and India.
 
Here are some key aspects of its importance:
 
  • The Indian diaspora plays a vital role in the economies of their host countries, particularly in sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, finance, and entrepreneurship.
  • They are significant contributors to India’s economy as well, with remittances from NRIs amounting to over $100 billion in 2022, the highest globally. These remittances help boost India’s foreign exchange reserves and support its development goals
  • The diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors, promoting Indian traditions, cuisine, festivals, and art globally. This enhances India’s soft power and fosters cultural exchange.
  • Events like Diwali and Yoga Day celebrated worldwide showcase India’s rich heritage and help build positive perceptions about the country
  • The Indian diaspora often holds key positions in politics, business, and academia in their host nations, influencing policies and strengthening bilateral ties with India. Prominent examples include leaders of Indian origin in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Singapore.
  • Diaspora organizations often advocate for India’s interests and contribute to shaping international opinions on Indian policies and issues
  • Indian professionals, particularly in fields like IT, engineering, and medicine, contribute to innovation and technological advancements globally.
  • Many diaspora members actively engage in knowledge-sharing and skill development initiatives in India, aiding its growth in critical sectors.
  • The presence of a significant Indian community in various countries strengthens India’s diplomatic relations with those nations.
  • For example, India’s strong ties with Gulf countries are partly influenced by the large Indian workforce contributing to their economies
 
7. Way Forward
 
Indian diaspora serves as a vital bridge between India and the global community, playing an instrumental role in shaping India's economic, cultural, and political footprint worldwide. Their contributions as professionals, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and cultural ambassadors have not only strengthened India's ties with other nations but have also bolstered its global reputation. The diaspora’s ability to influence policies, foster bilateral trade, and promote Indian culture makes them an invaluable asset in advancing India’s soft power and strategic interests. As India continues to rise as a global power, the role of its diaspora will remain pivotal in reinforcing its position on the world stage and fostering a collaborative, interconnected future
 
For Prelims: Indian Diaspora: Includes NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs
 
For Mains: General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations)
 
Source: Indianexpress

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