The Indian diaspora plays a critical role in shaping India’s global influence through economic contributions, cultural diplomacy, and soft power. Initiatives like the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and the Know India Programme underline the government’s efforts to strengthen ties with overseas Indians. With over 35.42 million Indians living abroad, India leads the world in emigration.

BulletsIn

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915.
• India has the world’s largest diaspora with 35.42 million overseas Indians.
• Indian diaspora contributes $125 billion in remittances annually, the highest globally.
• Key remittance sources: U.S. (18%) and UAE (second largest contributor).
• Diaspora strengthens India’s soft power by promoting culture and values globally.
• Major host countries: U.S. (5.4M), UAE (3.6M), Malaysia (2.9M).
• Government initiatives: Know India Programme, ICWF, E-Migrate, PBBY.
• Girmitiya migrants formed early diaspora in Pacific and Caribbean plantations.
• The diaspora aids India’s economy via investments, FDI, and entrepreneurial networks.
• Theme of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.”