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150 Words10 Marks

Q.Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples.

UPSC Mains 2020•International Relations

Model Answer

Topper's Answer

Introduction

The Indian diaspora, comprising millions of non-resident Indians (NRIs) and persons of Indian origin (PIOs), has emerged as a highly influential global community, playing a pivotal role in shaping the political and economic landscapes of North America and Europe.

Body

Political Dimensions

  • Electoral Influence: The diaspora represents a highly educated, affluent, and politically active demographic. In the US, Indian-Americans make up ~1% of the electorate but wield significant influence in key swing states.
  • Leadership Roles: Individuals of Indian descent hold top political offices, such as Kamala Harris (US Vice President), Rishi Sunak (former UK Prime Minister), and António Costa (former PM of Portugal).
  • Lobbying Power: Actively shapes host-country foreign policies in favor of India (e.g., the historic India-US Civil Nuclear Deal).
  • Soft Power: Promotes Indian culture, yoga, and values, fostering deep bilateral goodwill.

Economic Contributions

  • Technological Leadership: Dominates the global tech sector, heading major multinational corporations like Google (Sundar Pichai) and Microsoft (Satya Nadella).
  • Entrepreneurship & Industry: Eminent business leaders and industrialists (e.g., Lakshmi Mittal, Hinduja brothers) have built massive enterprises in Europe and America.
  • Investment & Employment: Indian MNCs (like Tata, which owns Jaguar Land Rover) are major employers and investors in Western economies.

Conclusion

The Indian diaspora acts as a living bridge between India and the West, serving as a powerful instrument of soft power, economic collaboration, and strategic diplomacy.

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