Narendra Modi and the proud Indian diaspora’s Indianness

The diaspora is a bridge between India and the world. They can help us to connect with new markets and opportunities: Narendra Modi

By Sanjay Puri

The Indian diaspora, scattered across the globe, has significantly shaped their adopted countries’ cultural, economic, and political landscapes.

With over 18 million Indians residing in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, they have not only contributed to their host nations’ growth, but have also continued to foster a deep sense of pride in their Indian heritage.

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Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the diaspora has witnessed India’s remarkable progress, and this success story has further strengthened their connection to their Indianness.

Economic and political growth of the Indian diaspora

The Indian diaspora’s economic and political achievements in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have been remarkable and well-documented. Indians have excelled in various fields, including technology, entrepreneurship, academia, medicine, and finance.

In the United States, the Indian diaspora has emerged as one of the most successful and highly educated immigrant communities, making substantial contributions to the American economy and society.

They have founded numerous successful startups and leading multinational corporations and have become prominent figures in academia and research institutions. The Indian diaspora is estimated to be worth over $1 trillion and remitted over $80 billion to India which is about 3% of India’s GDP.

They have made significant inroads in politics with Vice President Kamala Harris, two presidential candidates, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, and five members of US Congress.

Similarly, in the United Kingdom, Indian-origin individuals have risen to prominent positions in politics, business, and the arts. With Rishi Sunak as the Prime Minister, various cabinet members, members of parliament, influential business leaders, and renowned artists enrich the cultural fabric of their adopted country.

The Indian diaspora in Australia has also witnessed remarkable success, with Indians contributing significantly to the country’s diverse sectors, including technology, healthcare, education, and hospitality.

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The rise of India under Modi

Modi’s tenure has been marked by transformative changes in India, spurring economic growth, infrastructural development, and social progress. His leadership has instilled renewed pride in the Indian diaspora as they witness their homeland’s ascent on the global stage.

Under Modi’s administration, India has experienced significant economic growth, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.

His ambitious initiatives, such as Make in India, Digital India, and Startup India, have attracted global investments, encouraged innovation, and fostered entrepreneurship.

The Indian diaspora, with their entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen, has been instrumental in driving this economic growth, forming a vital bridge between India and their adopted countries.

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Political stability and reforms

Prime Minister Modi’s government has emphasized political stability, good governance, and reforms to enhance India’s global standing. His efforts to streamline bureaucracy, promote transparency, and eradicate corruption are widely appreciated.

The Indian diaspora takes pride in witnessing a more accountable and efficient governance system, which positively impacts India’s image abroad and reinforces their pride in their Indianness.

Infrastructure development

The ambitious infrastructure development projects undertaken by the Indian government have transformed India’s landscape and also captured the attention of the Indian diaspora.

Initiatives like smart cities, the modernization of transportation networks, and the construction of world-class airports and highways have showcased India’s commitment to progress.

The diaspora feels a sense of pride when they witness the tangible improvements in India’s infrastructure, realizing that their homeland is undergoing a remarkable transformation.

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Cultural diplomacy and outreach

Modi’s approach to engaging with the diaspora has been two-fold. First, he has made several high-profile visits to countries with large Indian populations, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

During these visits, he has spoken to members of the diaspora about his vision for India and urged them to contribute to its development. Second, Modi has launched several initiatives to facilitate the participation of the diaspora in India’s economy.

For example, he has created a new visa category for “Start-up Founders” that allows entrepreneurs from the diaspora to come to India and set up businesses. He has also launched several programs to encourage investment from the diaspora in India.

Modi has also emphasized cultural diplomacy, harnessing India’s rich heritage and diverse culture to enhance its global influence. Through events like the International Day of Yoga, Diwali celebrations at iconic landmarks, and promoting Indian cinema and arts, India’s soft power has grown.

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Diaspora’s spirit of proud Indianness

The Indian diaspora, being ambassadors of Indian culture in their host countries, celebrates these initiatives, fostering a sense of pride in their Indianness.

Modi’s leadership has invigorated the Indian diaspora, reinforcing their pride in Indianness. Witnessing India’s economic growth, political stability, and infrastructure development under his administration, the diaspora feels a deep connection to their homeland’s progress.

The achievements of the Indian diaspora in their adopted countries and the rise of India under Modi are intertwined, representing a shared journey towards prosperity, success, and an unbreakable bond with their roots.

As the Indian diaspora continues to contribute to the growth and development of their host nations, the stand tall, embodying the spirit of a proud Indianness that flourishes Modi’s leadership.

(Sanjay Puri is Chairman of US India Political Action Committee)