CONCEPT NOTE

The Indian diaspora has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient and medieval times. In these earlier periods, Indians travelled to various parts of the world, primarily as preachers, traders, and businessmen. These migrants not only engaged in trade but also played key roles in spreading Indian culture, religion, and traditions. A notable impact of their migration can be seen in Southeast Asia, where Indian influence led to the establishment of Hindu dynasties. For instance, kingdoms such as the Khmer Empire in Cambodia and the Srivijaya Empire in Indonesia were deeply influenced by Indian culture, art, and religion. Indian merchants also established trading centres along the east coast of Africa, leaving a mark on the cultural and economic landscape there.

Among the regions where the Indian diaspora is most prominent, Southeast Asia stands out. A large number of Indians, especially from Orissa (modern-day Odisha) and the eastern coast of India, migrated to Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia. These Indians brought with them their customs, traditions, and religious practices, many of which became integral parts of the local culture.

During the colonial period, a significant portion of the Indian diaspora was created through the system of indentured labour. The British, along with other colonial powers, recruited Indians to work in sugarcane plantations and other industries in their colonies. This system, which began in the 19th century, involved hiring Indian labourers on a contract basis, usually for a period of five years. These workers, often referred to as “coolies”, were sent to various British colonies in Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America. While many of them initially migrated under contract, a significant number chose to settle permanently in these regions after their contracts ended. They established vibrant communities, contributing to the local economy, politics, and society.

In Africa, for example, Indian labourers and traders played a crucial role in the economic development of countries like Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa. Similarly, in the Caribbean, particularly in countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and Suriname, the descendants of Indian indentured labourers form a substantial part of the population today. These communities have preserved aspects of Indian culture, including language, religion, and cuisine, while also integrating with the local culture. The Indian diaspora in these regions has produced notable political and economic leaders, shaping the development of their host nations.

After India’s independence in 1947, the Indian diaspora evolved into a more diverse and significant global force. In the post-independence era, particularly from the late 20th century onward, a new wave of migration began. Unlike the earlier migrations of indentured labourers during the colonial period, this new migration was primarily composed of highly skilled workers, particularly in fields like information technology, engineering, and medicine. Many of these professionals moved to developed Western countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, where they became integral to the growth of sectors like technology and healthcare.

A significant segment of India’s diaspora also migrated to Gulf countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, as semi-skilled and low-skilled workers. Unlike those who moved to Western countries, these workers went primarily on temporary contracts and were unable to settle permanently in the Gulf due to stringent immigration policies. By 2024, nearly 6 million Indian workers have worked in the Gulf, playing a crucial role in India’s economy. These workers, many of whom came from less affluent regions of India, sent a large portion of their earnings back home in the form of remittances. This steady inflow of foreign currency bolstered India’s economy during periods of financial crisis, including during the Cold War and later during India’s foreign exchange crisis in the early 1990s. Their remittances provided much-needed support to families in India and were an important source of foreign exchange reserves for the country, stabilizing its economy and promoting development.

As of 2024, India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a fast-track trajectory toward becoming a developed nation by 2047, the centenary of its independence. Various stakeholders within India, including the government, private sector, and civil society, are actively contributing to this goal of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). The Indian diaspora, which has grown into a global powerhouse, has also emerged as a crucial player in this journey.

Today, the Indian diaspora is the largest in the world, and its contributions are multifaceted. Economically, it is the single largest contributor to remittances, with US$ 125 billion being sent back to India in 2024 alone. This infusion of capital supports families, stimulates local economies, and strengthens India’s financial position. But the impact of the Indian diaspora goes far beyond just economic contributions. They are also contributing significantly to India’s rise as a global power through knowledge exchange, philanthropy, and skill transfer. Diasporic professionals working in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and financial services are sharing their expertise with Indian companies, helping the country advance in the knowledge economy.

Moreover, the Indian diaspora plays a vital role in promoting India’s soft power on the global stage. As cultural ambassadors, they help spread India’s message of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family), reflecting India’s ancient civilizational ethos of inclusivity and unity. They promote India’s cultural heritage, values, and political interests in their host countries, strengthening diplomatic ties and opening new opportunities for collaboration.

In this era of globalization, the Indian diaspora acts as a bridge between India and the rest of the world, advocating for India’s interests and fostering goodwill. Many members of the diaspora are influential figures in politics, business, and academia, and they use their positions to strengthen the bond between India and their host countries. Whether through their contributions to India’s economic growth, or through their efforts to enhance India’s standing on the global stage, the Indian diaspora is playing a crucial role in helping India achieve its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

With this background, the Conference would like to propose the following themes for deliberation:

1. Pre-colonial migration of Indians-  South East Asia and Africa
2. Indian migration during colonial period- indenture and free passengers.
3. Modern Global Indian Diaspora
4. Role and contributions of Indian Diaspora for Viksit Bharat
5. Indian Diaspora as cultural ambassadors and carrier of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam Philosophy.
6. Other Global Diasporas and comparative experience of Indian Diaspora in home connect.