9.3 Transnational networks and global Indian identity

Indians abroad maintain strong ties with their homeland through technology and cultural practices. This transnationalism allows them to stay connected while integrating into host societies, creating a global network of over 30 million people worldwide.

The Indian diaspora has fostered a global Indian identity, uniting people across borders through shared heritage and values. This identity enhances India's reputation globally and serves as a bridge for cultural exchange and diplomacy between India and other nations.

Transnationalism and the Indian Diaspora

Concept of transnationalism

• Refers to the maintenance of social, economic, and political ties across national borders
• Involves the flow of people, ideas, and resources between countries (remittances, cultural practices, political engagement)
• Enables migrants to maintain connections with their country of origin while integrating into host societies (dual citizenship, transnational families)
• Particularly relevant to the Indian diaspora due to its large size and diversity, estimated at over 30 million people worldwide
• Indian migrants maintain strong ties with their homeland through remittances, cultural practices, and political engagement
• Transnational networks facilitate the exchange of knowledge, skills, and resources between India and its diaspora (technology transfer, business partnerships)

Technology in transnational ties

• Advances in technology and communication have greatly facilitated transnational connections
• Affordable air travel has made it easier for migrants to visit their home countries regularly (budget airlines, frequent flyer programs)
• The internet and social media platforms allow for instant communication and information sharing across borders (WhatsApp, Facebook, Skype)
• Mobile banking and online money transfer services simplify the process of sending remittances (Western Union, PayPal, cryptocurrency)
• Enabled the creation of virtual transnational communities
  • Online forums, social media groups, and diaspora-focused websites connect Indians across the globe (Global Indian Network, Indian Diaspora Forum)
  • Virtual spaces provide a platform for cultural expression, political activism, and knowledge exchange (online language classes, virtual cultural events)
  • Help maintain linguistic and cultural ties, particularly among second and third-generation migrants (online resources for learning Indian languages, virtual religious ceremonies)

Global Indian Identity and Its Implications

Global Indian identity

• The Indian diaspora has contributed to the development of a global Indian identity
• Shared cultural heritage, values, and experiences unite Indians across national boundaries (Hinduism, Bollywood, cricket)
• The success and visibility of Indian migrants in various fields have enhanced India's global reputation (Satya Nadella, Kamala Harris, Priyanka Chopra)
• The diaspora acts as a bridge between India and their host countries, facilitating cultural understanding and exchange (Indian cultural festivals, yoga classes)
• Has implications for cultural exchange and diplomacy
  1. Diaspora members serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting Indian traditions, cuisine, and art forms in their host societies (Indian restaurants, classical dance performances)
  2. The diaspora's economic and political influence can be leveraged to advance India's interests abroad (lobbying for favorable trade policies, advocating for India's foreign policy objectives)
  3. Transnational networks and the global Indian identity contribute to India's soft power and public diplomacy efforts (cultural diplomacy, people-to-people exchanges)
• The Indian government has recognized the importance of engaging with its diaspora
  • Initiatives such as the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrate the contributions of the diaspora and strengthen ties with India
  • The Ministry of External Affairs has established a dedicated Overseas Indian Affairs division to address diaspora issues and facilitate engagement
  • India has entered into bilateral agreements and partnerships with countries that host large Indian populations to protect their rights and promote their welfare (social security agreements, labor mobility partnerships)