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As a global traveler with roots firmly planted in India, I have been fortunate enough to witness first-hand the breathtaking pace at which my home country is evolving. Gone are the days when India was synonymous with stagnation; today, it is a beacon of change, progress and boundless opportunity.
One of the most striking aspects of India's transformation is the rise of its young generation. With an unparalleled blend of intelligence, ambition and confidence, today's Indian youth are redefining the nation's trajectory. Unlike the hesitancy and shyness that may have characterized previous generations, today's youth exudes a palpable sense of optimism and determination. They are dreamers, innovators and trailblazers poised to lead India into a new era of prosperity.
For those of us Indians living abroad, this newfound confidence is a source of immense pride. We no longer hesitate to proclaim our Indian identity; instead, we wear it as a badge of honor, confident in our nation's potential and achievements. To me, this sense of pride is not merely a figment of imagination; it is rooted in the tangible progress that is visible across the length and breadth of India.
But perhaps the most telling sign of India's rapid growth is evident in its villages, where the winds of change are blowing stronger than ever before. From AI engineers to YouTube influencers to online educators, the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and thriving in every corner of the country.
This progress is not merely a result of chance; I find it a reflection of India's deeply ingrained ethos of karma, as espoused in the Bhagavad Gita. Across the country, individuals are seizing opportunities, taking risks and shaping their own destinies, embodying the principle that action is the key to success.
As someone who has witnessed the evolution of India's education system first-hand, I can attest to the seismic shift in attitudes toward entrepreneurship and leadership. Whereas once pursuing a career in politics might have been viewed with skepticism and stigma, today's young Indians are embracing the challenge with gusto, eager to leverage their tech-savvy skills and entrepreneurial mindset to drive meaningful change.
But perhaps most heartening of all is the unity that prevails among Indians, transcending differences of opinion or background. Whether it's in the spirited debates of YouTube comments or the collective aspirations for a brighter future, there is a shared sense of purpose that binds us all together. And while opinions may differ on many issues, there is a unanimous desire for India to grow, thrive and fulfil its immense potential.
In the midst of this whirlwind of progress, it is easy to lose sight of the challenges that remain. But as a society, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to progress, recognizing that each obstacle is an opportunity for growth. As the saying goes, "We Indians have a tendency to never give up," and I believe it is this indomitable spirit that will propel India toward its rightful place as a global superpower.
In recent years, there has been a recurring question posed to individuals like myself who have chosen to live outside India despite professing a deep love for our homeland: "If you love India so much and if you are so positive about India, why aren’t you living here?" It's a valid question, one that deserves a thoughtful response.
Firstly, it's essential to acknowledge the reality of the Indian diaspora, which stands as the largest in the world. According to the UN, approximately 18 million Indians retain their nationality while living abroad. This diaspora is not merely a dispersion of people; it is a testament to the indomitable spirit and drive of the Indian community.
Contrary to misconceptions, most Indians abroad have not only succeeded but have excelled in their chosen fields. The Economist notes that in 2023 alone, the Indian diaspora sent nearly $125 billion in remittances back to India, equivalent to around 3.4% of the country's GDP. Moreover, individuals of Indian descent hold influential positions in leading global institutions such as Google, the World Bank and even in Britain. This newfound prosperity and influence underscore the transformative power of hard work, resilience and determination.
For many of us who venture abroad, the journey is not just about personal gain; it's about leveraging opportunities to uplift our communities and contribute to India's development. Living in foreign lands exposes us to new technologies, diverse cultures and innovative ideas, all of which enrich our perspectives and skillsets. The earnings we accrue are not just for personal wealth but are often invested back into our homeland, whether through entrepreneurial ventures, philanthropic initiatives or supporting our families and communities.
Many successful Indian professionals abroad have a unique chance to empower Indian communities both locally and back home. Their desire to see India thrive on the world stage is clear. These accomplished individuals, often in prominent positions, act as powerful advocates, amplifying India's voice and influence internationally. By sharing their expertise, they become ambassadors of progress, bridging the gap between India and the global arena.
These high-achieving Indians can uplift their fellow Indians in various fields by sharing their knowledge. This can be done through articles, blogs or videos that address specific challenges faced by the Indian business community. For example, I founded the Indian Tech Society in London to build a strong community and offer mentorship. Here, I guide aspiring Indian entrepreneurs, professionals and students as they navigate the U.K. We leverage our network by hosting quarterly events to connect Indian professionals with potential collaborators, clients and investors.
Indians abroad can also be instrumental in helping Indian businesses go global. Their knowledge of local market dynamics and regulations in their host countries is invaluable. They can connect Indian businesses with investment opportunities abroad and vice versa. Furthermore, they can share best practices and innovative approaches gleaned from their international experiences, giving Indian business leaders a valuable edge.
Living away from India also fosters a deep appreciation for our roots and heritage. In unfamiliar surroundings, we cherish our Indian identity more fervently, finding solace and strength in our shared cultural heritage. The bonds of community and kinship become even more precious as we navigate the challenges of life in a foreign land. Through our endeavors and contributions, we serve as ambassadors of progress, bridging the gap between India and the world.
