Deepender Singh Hooda, a Congress MP, has requested for non-resident Indians (NRIs) to have representation in Parliament during a recent meeting of the parliamentary committee on external affairs. This is due to the increasing population of NRIs and the unique challenges they face, as well as examples from other countries such as Italy that provide legislative seats for citizens residing overseas. This move could address issues specific to the Indian diaspora, as highlighted by Hooda and various organizations from regions like Kerala and Punjab. Currently, NRIs are considered as 'overseas electors' and do not have voting rights from abroad, but Hooda argues that they deserve to be included in Parliament as the diaspora grows in numbers. However, the issue of proxy voting for NRIs has not been resolved since a 2018 bill lapsed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the Chalo India Global Diaspora Campaign, where he encourages the Indian diaspora to bring in their non-Indian friends to visit India and contribute to the country's tourism. The campaign will be launched in all Indian embassies and high commissions abroad and a portal will be created for NRIs to register and nominate their non-Indian associates. The PM will also inaugurate multiple tourism projects worth over Rs 1,400 crore and announce 42 tourist destinations under the Challenge-Based Destination Development scheme.
Karnataka's Home Minister announces plans to create a separate ministry for non-resident Indians, following a demand from NRIs from more than 15 countries. The move aims to strengthen relationships with NRIs and encourage investment in the state. Other leaders also highlight the importance of strengthening bonds with NRIs for the development of the state.