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Tag: Indian-Origin
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2024 was the year India became the talk of America
America went to polls this year, and chose its former president and Republican Donald Trump 47th President. The election was preceded by an entire year of campaigning, and a neck-and-neck competition between the Democrats and the Republicans. As Democrat nominee and US Vice-President Kamala Harris and Trump vied for the White House, India became the talk of the election.
With 2.6 million eligible Indian-American voters — according to data from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace — the Indian diaspora’s growing political significance was felt in key US swing states. These states, which were won by Trump, accounted for a significant number of Indian-American votes.
Data suggested that there was a shift in the attitude of US voters of Indian origin this year. A large number of them shifted from Democratic Party to Republican Party in this election.
Indian-Americans didn’t just leave a mark by casting their votes though. They were also seen making headlines across both popular political parties in the US. From Presidential contenders of Indian origin to several top leaders with India connection, India came in the spotlight.
As this year comes to an end,we recap how politicians of Indian origin made waves in the US Presidential election.
Kamala Harris
She is no stranger to the world. Harris made global headlines in 2020 when she was chosen by Joe Biden as his running mate during his Presidential campaign. She became the first woman in America’s history to sit on the Vice President’s chair, and also the first person of Indian descent to occupy a top position in the US. Harris’s mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a revered Indian-American scientist who had migrated to the US from India at the age of 19. Her Jamaican-origin father, Donald Jasper Harris, is an economist and professor at Stanford University. During her Presidential campaign, Harris prominently shared her memories of her mother. Harris conceded defeat on November 4, 2024, but her Presidential bid gave prominence to India in the US.
Tulsi Gabbard
Born in Hawaii, Tulsi Gabbard is not of Indian origin but has a connection with India due to her Hindu religion. It was her name and identity as a Hindu that confused people the world over about her origin. Gabbard has been a Congresswoman for decades, since she won her first election in 2002. It was earlier this year that she made headlines for quitting the Democratic party to back Trump. In November, Trump chose her as Director of National Intelligence. The rise of Tulsi in the American politics also brought to light her Hindu religion.
Vivek Ramaswamy
Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy came to prominence when he challenged Trump as a Republican contender for President earlier this year. A 39-year-old politician with roots in Kerala, Ramaswamy holds a degree in Biology from Harvard University and a law degree from Yale Law School. A staunch follower of Hinduism, he is set to co-lead a new initiative aimed at reducing government bureaucracy. Alongside tech mogul Elon Musk, Ramaswamy will head the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Usha Vance
Usha Chilukuri Vance is set to make history as the first Indian-origin Second Lady of the United States. The wife of Vice President-elect JD Vance, Usha came to the global spotlight when she introduced her husband at the Republican National Convention in July this year. Born to Indian immigrant parents in San Diego, Usha married Vance in 2014 in a Hindu ceremony. She had built a career as a litigator before leaving her job to support her husband as he transitioned to politics from the world of practising law. When Trump chose JD Vance as his running mate, Usha’s life, beliefs and Indian connection were widely covered in the media.
Kash Patel
Kashyap “Kash” Patel, a former federal prosecutor and a trusted ally of Trump, has been named Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Patel, born in New York to Indian-origin immigrants from Uganda, rose to prominence for his work on intelligence reform and national security during Trump’s first term. Kash as the FBI head is a very polarising choice by Trump since Kash is seen as a bold man out to reform the FBI and purge it of deep state actors. His name drills fear amiong top Republican leaders and deep state actors just as he is hugely popular among Trump fanbase due to his vow to dismantle the deep state.
Jay Bhattacharya
Kolkata-born Jayanta “Jay” Bhattacharya, a renowned health policy expert and Stanford University professor, has been appointed Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the US ‘s leading medical research agency. Bhattacharya, known for his controversial stance against covid restrictions, has advocated for policies focusing on individual liberty in public health. The eminent epidemiologist was censored by social media platforms, allegedly at the behest of the Biden adminsitration, for his contrarian stance on the pandemic restrictions. As the new NIH Director, Bhattacharya will oversee a budget of nearly $47.3 billion.
Harmeet Kaur Dhillon
Republican lawyer Harmeet Kaur Dhillon has been nominated by Trump as the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. She became an influential figure in the Republican Party for filing lawsuits over election integrity issues and backing Trump’s legal efforts to overturn Presidential election results in 2020. She also filed lawsuits against covid restrictions. She was a legal adviser on the Trump 2020 campaign. Born in Chandigarh, Dhillon found her own law firm in San Francisco. -
The rise and contributions of the Indian diaspora
The Indian diaspora is one of the largest and most diverse global communities, with an estimated 32 million people of Indian origin living across the world. From the shores of the Caribbean islands to the bustling cities of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and beyond, Indians have built thriving communities that are often key to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of their host nations. Over the past few centuries, the Indian diaspora has experienced remarkable growth, playing an influential role in shaping the world’s geopolitical landscape, global markets, and cultural exchanges. This article aims to explore the rise of the Indian diaspora, their historical journey, the factors contributing to their migration, and their diverse and substantial contributions to their host countries and to India itself.
Historical Background of Indian Emigration
Early Waves of Migration
Indian migration has a rich history that spans centuries. The earliest recorded instances of Indian emigration occurred during the ancient and medieval periods, with Indians settling in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. Traders, scholars, and missionaries often traveled across the Indian Ocean, leaving behind traces of Indian culture and religion.
During the British colonial period (18th–20th centuries), however, emigration from India significantly increased. The indentured labor system, implemented by the British after the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, became the primary mechanism for the large-scale migration of Indians. Millions of Indians were transported to various colonies such as Mauritius, Fiji, the Caribbean islands, and South Africa to work on sugar plantations, railways, and in other industries. This wave of migration laid the foundation for the development of vibrant Indian communities in these regions, some of which still maintain strong cultural ties to their Indian roots.
Post-Independence Migration
After India’s independence in 1947, migration patterns began to shift. Many Indians sought better economic opportunities abroad, especially in Western countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of skilled Indian professionals, including doctors, engineers, and IT specialists, migrating to meet labor shortages in these nations. By the 1980s and 1990s, the expansion of India’s global footprint, coupled with economic liberalization, further accelerated the migration of professionals seeking better opportunities in growing economies.
Factors Driving Indian Migration
Economic Opportunities
The most significant factor driving Indian migration has been the search for better economic prospects. As India’s population grew and its economic landscape evolved, many Indians faced limited opportunities for career advancement, education, and financial stability at home. Countries with burgeoning economies and labor shortages, such as the Gulf states, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, offered higher wages, better living standards, and improved career prospects.
In the post-1991 liberalized economy, India’s economic growth allowed many to take advantage of international opportunities. The rise of the Indian information technology (IT) sector also played a crucial role in facilitating the migration of highly skilled professionals to countries like the United States and Canada.
Educational Pursuits
The pursuit of education has also been a driving force for migration. Indian students have flocked to institutions abroad for higher education, particularly in fields like engineering, medicine, management, and the sciences. The United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada remain top destinations for Indian students, who not only benefit from quality education but also gain exposure to international networks, knowledge, and skills.
Political and Social Factors
In some cases, migration was driven by political instability, persecution, or limited opportunities in India. For example, during the period of political turmoil in India during the 1970s and 1980s, large numbers of people sought refuge or better prospects abroad. In countries like Uganda, Fiji, and Kenya, political events (such as Idi Amin’s expulsion of Indians from Uganda) forced many to leave.
Additionally, factors such as religious intolerance, caste-based discrimination, and economic inequalities led to waves of migration from certain regions within India to more developed countries, where better social mobility and opportunities were available.
Indian Diaspora’s Contribution to Global Economies
Economic Impact and Remittances
One of the most important contributions of the Indian diaspora has been in the form of remittances. According to the World Bank, India has been the largest recipient of remittances globally, receiving over $87 billion in 2020 alone. Remittances sent by Indian expatriates to their families back home have been a vital source of income for millions, contributing significantly to poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, and overall economic growth.
The economic footprint of the Indian diaspora extends beyond remittances. Indian entrepreneurs and professionals have made substantial investments in their host countries, contributing to the growth of industries ranging from technology to real estate, hospitality, and retail. The Indian diaspora has played a key role in the global technology boom, especially in sectors like software development, finance, and telecommunications.
Business and Entrepreneurship
Indians have been instrumental in the development of several industries worldwide. In countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, Indian entrepreneurs have built successful businesses that employ thousands of people. In Silicon Valley, Indian-origin entrepreneurs have become some of the most prominent figures in the tech industry, with individuals like Sundar Pichai (CEO of Google), Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), and Vinod Khosla (co-founder of Sun Microsystems) leading major global tech firms.
In the United States, Indian immigrants have made their mark in the healthcare sector, particularly in the fields of medicine and biotechnology. Indian-origin doctors, researchers, and health professionals are highly respected for their expertise and have contributed to the development of cutting-edge medical technologies.
Indian businesses have also flourished in the Gulf states, where large communities of Indians work in construction, retail, and hospitality. Moreover, successful Indian businesspeople, such as Lakshmi Mittal, who heads ArcelorMittal, the world’s largest steel producer, and Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, have become global symbols of entrepreneurship.
Contributions to Culture and Society
Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power
The Indian diaspora has been a powerful vehicle for the spread of Indian culture across the globe. Whether through Bollywood films, traditional dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathak, or global cuisine, the Indian diaspora has brought India’s rich cultural heritage to the forefront of global consciousness. Cultural festivals, such as Diwali and Holi, are celebrated by communities of Indian origin in many countries, fostering a greater understanding of Indian traditions and values.
In countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, the Indian diaspora has been at the center of intercultural dialogues, promoting diversity, tolerance, and understanding. The popularity of yoga and meditation in the West is also largely attributed to the Indian diaspora’s efforts in sharing these practices with the world.
Philanthropy and Social Causes
Indian diaspora communities have also made significant contributions to charitable causes and social development, both in their host countries and in India. Many members of the Indian diaspora have been involved in philanthropy, supporting causes such as education, healthcare, and disaster relief.
The Indian diaspora has also been active in promoting educational initiatives, providing scholarships to students in need, and supporting schools and universities in India. The contributions of Indian-origin individuals to international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization further highlight the global impact of the Indian diaspora.
Political Influence and Advocacy
Engagement in Host Country Politics
The Indian diaspora’s political engagement has grown significantly over the years. In countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, Indian-origin individuals have been elected to high political offices, contributing to the political landscape of their respective nations. Notable figures include Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, and Priti Patel, the Home Secretary of the United Kingdom, both of whom have Indian heritage.
Indian-origin politicians have advocated for the interests of the diaspora, building bridges between their home country, India, and their adopted nations. In the United States, for example, Indian-Americans have emerged as a significant voting bloc, influencing political campaigns, policy decisions, and international relations.
Strengthening India’s Global Presence
The Indian diaspora has also played a crucial role in strengthening India’s global influence. By acting as a bridge between their host countries and India, the diaspora has contributed to enhancing India’s diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with the world. Indian-origin politicians, business leaders, and community organizers have often acted as ambassadors for India, lobbying for greater trade and investment, fostering bilateral partnerships, and promoting India’s interests on the global stage.
The Future of the Indian Diaspora
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of the Indian diaspora is expected to grow even further. In the coming decades, the Indian diaspora will continue to be a critical factor in fostering India’s global standing. The rise of India as an economic powerhouse, along with its expanding influence in global politics, will provide new avenues for the diaspora to contribute to their home country’s growth.
Moreover, as the Indian diaspora becomes more integrated into the societies in which they live, their contributions will likely become more visible and impactful. The focus will likely shift from simple remittances and labor to more complex forms of collaboration, such as joint ventures, innovation partnerships, and global research initiatives.