S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, stressed the importance of the Indian diaspora in creating a “global workforce” in his speech at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention on January 9, 2025. He emphasized that the diaspora serves as a conduit between India and the nations in which they live, enabling a two-way exchange of best practices, technology, and resources that are crucial for India’s development in an increasingly globalized world.
Jaishankar told the diaspora that “you can be confident that the Modi government has got your back” and that the Indian government is prepared to help them in times of need overseas. He recognized their contributions to a number of industries, including trade, investment, and tourism, all of which are crucial to boosting India’s standing internationally and its economic growth.
The minister also pointed out that over the past ten years, consular services and diaspora welfare initiatives have improved, including more responsive embassies and streamlined passport procedures. He reaffirmed that these adjustments are a part of the government’s larger plan to make it easier for Indians living and doing business overseas, utilizing digital technologies to guarantee the welfare of the diaspora.
To sum up, Jaishankar’s comments highlight the growing significance of the Indian diaspora as a major force behind India’s globalization initiatives and its tactical function in building global ties.
