Top 10 Countries Home to Nearly Half of India’s Diaspora: US and UAE Lead the Way
India’s diaspora has reached a remarkable milestone, now numbering 3.43 crore, making it the largest in the world. This significant population is evenly divided between Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), each group comprising 1.71 crore individuals. The economic impact of this diaspora is substantial, with remittances hitting a record $135.46 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25, reflecting a 14% increase from the previous year. India has maintained its status as the top global recipient of remittances for over a decade, according to the World Bank.
Distribution of the Indian Diaspora
Nearly half of India’s diaspora resides in just ten countries, with the United States leading the way, home to 56.9 lakh Indians. The United Arab Emirates follows closely with 38.9 lakh, while Malaysia and Saudi Arabia host 29.3 lakh and 27.5 lakh Indians, respectively. Other notable countries include Canada, which has 36.1 lakh Indians, and Sri Lanka, with 16.1 lakh. The Gulf region remains a significant hub for NRIs, with a combined total of 76.5 lakh Indians in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. In contrast, PIOs are primarily concentrated in Western nations, with approximately 66 lakh residing in the US, UK, and Canada, representing nearly 40% of the global PIO population.
Smaller nations also have notable Indian communities. For instance, Mauritius is home to 8.9 lakh Indians, while Trinidad and Tobago has 5.4 lakh. Other countries like Fiji, Guyana, Suriname, and Reunion Island also host significant populations of Indian descent. This diverse distribution highlights the global presence of the Indian diaspora and its varied cultural influences across different regions.
Economic Contributions and Cultural Engagement
The economic contributions of India’s diaspora are significant, particularly through remittances. The record remittance figure of $135.46 billion underscores the vital role that overseas Indians play in supporting their families and communities back home. The Indian government has recognized this contribution and is committed to fostering stronger ties with its diaspora. The Ministry of External Affairs operates 219 missions and posts worldwide and has established migration and mobility partnership agreements with seven countries.
To enhance cultural engagement, India has set up 38 Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) centers in various cities, including London, Sydney, and Tokyo. However, despite the large Indian population, the United States does not have an ICCR center, which means that cultural activities there are managed by embassy officers. The government also offers research grants for NRI, PIO, and OCI scholars in priority areas, promoting intellectual collaboration and engagement with the diaspora.
Government Initiatives and Future Prospects
The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to support its diaspora. Joint Working Groups with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries regularly convene to discuss the welfare of migrant workers. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has emphasized the importance of these connections, stating that the government is dedicated to fostering enduring relationships with the global Indian community.
As India continues to grow as a global economic powerhouse, the role of its diaspora will likely become even more critical. The government’s focus on enhancing cultural ties and supporting Indian communities abroad reflects a broader strategy to leverage the diaspora’s potential for national development. With ongoing efforts to strengthen these connections, the future looks promising for India’s diaspora and its contributions to both the Indian economy and global society.
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