India's diaspora—an extensive and vibrant community across the globe—has become increasingly significant as the country seeks to bolster its international relationships. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent diplomatic efforts, it was clear the Indian government is strategically engaging with this community, channeling their influence to reinforce ties and advance India's global standing. Modi's outreach became more pronounced with the anticipation of the upcoming U.S. visit on September 21-23, 2024, where, as has become tradition, he planned large-scale events with Indian Americans.
The Indian diaspora, estimated at around 35 million globally, has found popularity and privilege particularly within the United States, where nearly 5 million people of Indian descent reside. This community is not just prosperous; they are also increasingly influential across various sectors such as technology, politics, and business. Modi's past visits have often seen him addressing large gatherings of Indian Americans, giving his speeches the feel of political rallies and serving to galvanize support for his policies. His visit this time coincides with significant geopolitical discussions and events, including the sixth Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) leaders' summit, which is seen as pivotal for both regional and international stability.
Before embarking on his U.S. trip, the Irish Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, expressed ambitions to strengthen economic ties with India, underscoring the country's rapid ascent economically and diplomatically. He highlighted India's path to becoming the world’s third-largest economy and suggested the establishment of a joint economic commission. Kelly's comments reflect the growing recognition of India's role not only as the largest democracy but also as a significant player within the Asia-Pacific region. The Irish diaspora, with Indian nationals forming approximately 2% of the population, plays a role here as well, creating bridges between the two nations.
When it came to Modi’s plans, he aimed to make waves at the Quad summit held at President Biden's Delaware residence, which aimed to unify the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia against the backdrop of growing Chinese influence. Discussions would focus on security, economic ties, and cooperative trade efforts—crucial elements for maintaining balance and peace within the Indo-Pacific. Modi’s participation signifies not only India's position as a key player but also its aspiration to lead discussions on major strategic alliances. This also included discussions around uplifting other Indo-Pacific nations through developmental initiatives.
Following the Quad meetings, Modi planned to hold the much-anticipated ‘Modi & US Progress Together’ event aimed at the Indian-American community. With over 25,000 registrations expected, this gathering at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum reinforces the long-standing tradition of Modi connecting with the diaspora during his foreign tours—a practice started during his first visit to the U.S. back in 2014. At each event, Modi's speeches present India’s achievements and growth story, instilling pride and unity among overseas Indians, presenting them as integral to India's development narrative.
Notably, such diaspora engagements serve dual purposes. They don’t just boost the morale and identity of Indian nationals abroad, but they also serve as platforms for Modi to showcase the potential of India to foreign audiences. Hence, events are often carefully curated for maximum outreach and impact, merging diplomacy with spectacle. Organizers and close observers note how these meetings help cultivate goodwill and also assist Indian policymakers by positioning the government favorably in the eyes of policymakers and business leaders alike.
Adding another layer of complexity to the diplomatic picture, Modi's engagement is significant at home, isolatively fostering voter loyalty, especially as elections loom. The Indian political apparatus recognizes the potential of the diaspora as advocates who can influence U.S. lawmakers and public opinion, amplifying voices on issues ranging from investment to policy-making.
Yet, challenges persist. Modi's relationship with the diaspora was tested recently by geopolitical tensions surrounding terrorism and contentious issues related to Khalistani separatist movements. Such instances highlight how Modi's diaspora outreach is not only about celebration and unity but also managing international narratives and leveraging cultural ties to navigate sensitive issues related to India’s domestic policy.
The focus on the diaspora extends to include significant voices like Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who addressed Indian nationals during his recent visit to Dallas, describing them as bridges between the U.S. and India. Gandhi has highlighted to the diaspora their importance as not only contributors to the economy but also as pivotal stakeholders able to provide feedback and push for Indian interests on various platforms.
With this dynamic backdrop, the upcoming U.S. visit looms, signaling not just another diplomatic sortie but also encapsulating the essence of the Indian ethos—highlighting how identities and interconnections shape politics and beyond. The diverse narratives surrounding diaspora engagements reveal their weight as strategic tools within larger foreign policy frameworks.
Going forward, the connections forged through these events will undoubtedly enrich India's narrative on the world stage. Both Modi and Kelly are working to embed their respective countries’ influences more deeply within the global order, each using the diaspora as leverage to create substantial ties, and asserting the shared future they envision through economic and social collaboration.
These layers of engagement will reverberate through political corridors across nations, impacting strategies for business, leadership, and cooperation, all as the world looks on. The Indian diaspora's capacity to sway matters of bilateral relations cannot be understated, as both public sentiment and political will continue to hinge upon these extensive networks.
Beyond the rallies and speeches, the focus on economic and cultural ties, joint strategy discussions, and the establishment of frameworks for dialogue will shape the discourse going forward. The relevance of the diaspora, their successes, and their strategic importance will remain at the forefront of India's bid to wield greater influence internationally.
