Topic: Indian diaspora
Q3. “The Indian diaspora is often termed as India’s ‘soft power’ asset”. Analyze the role of the Indian diaspora in advancing India’s strategic interests globally. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the Question
To explore the role of the Indian diaspora as a strategic asset, highlighting its importance in soft power and India’s global influence.Key Demand of the Question
The answer must analyze how the Indian diaspora contributes to India’s strategic interests globally, including areas like economic, diplomatic, cultural, and political influence.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly define the concept of “soft power” and introduce the Indian diaspora as a key component of India’s soft power strategy.Body
- Economic Contributions: Mention remittances, investment, and business networks.
- Diplomatic Influence: Explain the diaspora’s role in strengthening India’s diplomatic ties with host countries, especially in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
- Cultural and Social Influence: Discuss how the diaspora promotes Indian culture, language, and values, enhancing India’s image abroad.
- Political Leverage: Highlight the diaspora’s role in influencing policies favorable to India in countries with significant Indian-origin populations.
Conclusion
Summarize the importance of the diaspora as an asset to India’s soft power and suggest how India could further strengthen these ties to enhance its global strategic influence.
