India’s engagement with Diaspora: government communication, platforms and structures

• Published in: Diaspora Studies 2013-01, Vol.6 (1), p.50-60
• Main Author: Sahai, Paramjit S
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Communication; Diaspora engagement; Diaspora policy; Diaspora structures; Emigration; Human rights; Immigration policy; Industrialized nations; Labor contracts; Labour contract; Migration; Multiculturalism & pluralism; United Kingdom
• ISSN: 0973-9572; 0976-3457
• DOI: 10.1080/09739572.2013.843292

The paper looks at India’s engagement with its Diaspora, which is akin to ‘Jugalbandi’ (partnership) between India and its Diaspora, as it got manifested at the first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on 9 January 2013. How has this relationship unfolded over a decade? What are the policy framework and the structures that have been created? What is the nature and level of Indian government’s engagement with its Diaspora? What role has been designed for Indian Diplomatic Missions abroad as these work as bridge between the Indian government and the Diaspora? What are the platforms India uses in engaging with Diaspora? How are the Indian Diaspora organized and the nature and extent of its connectivity with the Indian government? To understand the above issues, it would be necessary to understand the role and importance of Diaspora in this globalized world? How is Indian Diaspora placed in terms of its size, strength and involvement, not only at global level, but also in a particular country? The paper attempts to answer all above issues in so far as these relate to India, drawing comparison with other countries, as are applicable and relevant for this paper. Based on these broad trends and observations, policy recommendations have been made, as to how the present level of India’s engagement with its Diaspora could be enhanced? Would this require strengthening of the existing structures or taking up new initiatives? Furthermore, the paper explores what steps are required to develop an effective communication system between the government, states, diplomatic missions and Diaspora organizations, which would result in a win–win situation?