Indian Diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago

The Prime Minister declared that sixth generation Indian-descendant citizens of Trinidad and Tobago will soon obtain the Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card.

The statement represents India's initial engagement with the Caribbean country, which is celebrating the 180th anniversary of the Girmitiyas' arrival in 2025.

Girmitiya Community: “Girmitiyas” referred to Indian workers who departed India in the 19th century to labor in British territories, where numerous eventually made their homes.

The word “Girmit” is a mispronunciation of “Agreement,” which pertains to the contract that facilitated their migration.

The workers were transported to territories such as Mauritius, Fiji, Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa, and others

They share deep connections with Bihar and Eastern UP and possess a bhojpuri-speaking background.

Trinidad and Tobago became the inaugural nation in the Caribbean to implement India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface) system, facilitating financial transfers between both parties.

Indian Diaspora

The diaspora includes individuals who can trace their roots to India or are Indian citizens residing overseas, either for a short time or long term.

According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs [2024], the worldwide Indian diaspora is estimated to be around 35.42 million, which includes 15.85 million non-resident Indians (NRIs) and 19.57 million individuals of Indian origin (PIOs).

Five leading nations with significant Indian diaspora populations: United States (USA): 5.4 million, United Arab Emirates (UAE): 3.6 million, Malaysia: 2.9 million, Canada: 2.8 million, and Saudi Arabia: 2.4 million.

According to the UN World Migration Report 2024, India accounts for the highest number of international migrants globally, reaching almost 18 million.

Significance of the Diaspora

Remittances: In 2024, India received approximately $129.1 billion in remittances, the largest amount recorded for any country in a single year.

India accounted for 14.3% of global remittances this year, marking the highest percentage for any country since the turn of the millennium.

These play a crucial role in foreign exchange reserves and the incomes of rural households.

Investment & Trade: NRIs and PIOs place funds in Indian real estate, startups, and infrastructure, serving as trade intermediaries between India and their countries of residence.

Tech & Innovation: Professionals of Indian descent in Silicon Valley, academia, and international companies play a role in knowledge exchange, mentorship, and fostering innovation connections.

Cultural Ambassadors: The diaspora spreads Indian languages, yoga, food, cinema, and celebrations worldwide.

Policy Advocacy: Diaspora groups frequently impact foreign policy choices in host nations to benefit India.

Citizen Diplomacy: Involvement of the diaspora aids India in navigating relations amid bilateral conflicts or adverse media portrayal.

Worldwide Acknowledgment: Their accomplishments boost India's reputation as a place of skill and potential.

Obstacles Encountered by the Indian Diaspora

No Dual Citizenship: India prohibits dual citizenship, restricting political rights and emotional connections to the motherland.

Racism and Xenophobia: Increasing racial assaults in nations such as the USA, UK, Australia, and South Africa.

Religious or Cultural Bias: Discrimination based on apparent religious emblems or eating practices.

Inequitable Legal Handling: Strict labor regulations and inadequate legal safeguards for migrant workers in West Asia.

Low-Paid Migrant Laborers: Numerous Indian workers in Gulf nations endure abusive contracts, payment delays, unsafe accommodations, and extended working hours.

Challenge of Maintaining Identity: Youth of Indian descent in Western nations frequently encounter an identity crisis and feelings of cultural disconnection.

Anti-Immigrant Sentiment: The growth of right-wing politics in the West has turned immigrants into subjects of distrust.

Government Programs to Involve Diaspora

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (9 January): This day is observed to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa.

It acknowledges the efforts of the Indian diaspora.

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Card: It provides lifetime visa-free access, property rights (excluding agriculture), and economic benefits to qualified PIOs up to the fourth generation (not including those of Pakistan/Bangladesh origin).

Know India Programme (KIP): A brief orientation initiative for diaspora youth (ages 21-35) to engage with Indian culture, institutions, and states.

Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): Enhances Indian culture overseas via cultural exchanges, academic positions, and artist groups.

e-Migrate System: Digital platform designed to safeguard Indian workers overseas by simplifying recruitment, employment agreements, and complaint resolution.

Bharatiya Pravasi Samman Award: The top recognition awarded by the Indian government to distinguished diaspora individuals for their exceptional contributions.

Madad Portal: An online platform by MEA for Indians overseas to address grievances related to passports, consular services, and legal matters.

VAJRA Scheme: Welcomes scientists of Indian origin from overseas to partner with Indian institutions on cutting-edge research initiatives.

Global Pravasi Rishta Portal & App: A digital platform designed to link the diaspora with Indian missions for registration, communication, and engagement activities.