Pallavi Aiyar:

Capturing China, Europe, and the Human Condition through Writing

Dhruva Jaishankar:

Rooted in Legacy, Driven by Vision

Sahar Mansoor:

Building Zero-Waste Products through Bare Necessities

Remembering Ratan Tata:

The Visionary Who Transformed Indian Industry

Shriya Naheta Wadhwa:

Champions Indian Ingredients with Zama Organics

MasterChef Australia Judges:

Exploring the Flavours of India

How Going Abroad Can Transform Your Life |

TEDxISH | Xavier Augustin, CEO, Y-Axis

GI walks hand in hand with Global Indians. Game changers who lead by example.
Get on the GI coveted list.

Global Indian, A hero’s journey

We are an online publication that focuses on the journeys of Indians and Indian companies abroad

Pallavi Aiyar:

Capturing China, Europe, and the Human Condition through Writing

Dhruva Jaishankar:

Rooted in Legacy, Driven by Vision

Sahar Mansoor:

Building Zero Waste Products through Bare Necessities

Remembering Ratan Tata:

The Visionary Who Transformed Indian Industry

Shriya Naheta Wadhwa:

Champions Indian Ingredients with Zama Organics

MasterChef Australia Judges:

Exploring the Flavours of India

How Going Abroad Can Transform Your Life |

TEDxISH | Xavier Augustin, CEO, Y-Axis

GI walks hand in hand with Global Indians. Game changers who lead by example.
Get on the GI coveted list.

Global Indian, A hero’s journey

You can’t win if you don’t even start

GLOBAL INDIAN | EXCLUSIVE STORIES

Stories that are researched and written by our editorial team

GLOBAL INDIAN YOUTH | EXCLUSIVE STORIES

Stories that are researched and written by our editorial team

Global Indian | Good Reads

 Top reads curated from the internet 

#1How Indians settled abroad
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a celebration of resilience of Indian diaspora, especially in situations like Ukraine
Reading Time: 5 minutes
#2
Beside Vasco da Gama’s tomb, 500 years later: A story of neglected opportunities to lure foreign tourists
Reading Time: 5 mins
#3Justin Trudeau Steps Down
What Justin Trudeau’s Exit Means For Indian Canadians
Reading Time: 5 minutes
#4
Indians own more property in London than Englishmen; netizens take ‘karma’ jibe: ‘At least they did it legally’
Reading Time: 5 mins
#5H1B Visa Program
America’s H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here’s why
Reading Time: 5 minutes
#6
EB-5 visa offers an investment route to US citizenship and permanent residency
Reading Time: 5 mins
Indians in London Own More Property

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a celebration of resilience of Indian diaspora, especially in situations like Ukraine

The article first appeared in Indian Express on Jan 9, 2025. India, with the world’s largest population, has been increasingly recognized for its global influence, both economically and culturally. A vital part of this influence is the Indian diaspora, comprising over 3.5 crore Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who have established roots worldwide. Over the years, the diaspora's role has evolved significantly, with Indians abroad now being hailed as lifesavers and ambassadors of Indian culture and values. This shift reflects India's growing commitment to its citizens, regardless of their location. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a testament to this recognition, celebrating the contributions of NRIs and their impact across various sectors. One of the proudest moments for the Indian diaspora came in the aftermath of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Witnessing the resilience and unity of Indians in Poland was truly inspiring. However, as the crisis unfolded, this number swelled to over 24,000. Bound by shared values and patriotism, the Indian community in Poland played a critical role in supporting one another and aiding evacuation efforts. It was a powerful reminder of the strength and solidarity of the diaspora during times of crisis. Poland’s proximity to Ukraine, sharing eight land borders, added complexity to the situation. The invasion triggered panic not only within Ukraine and India but also among neighboring nations hosting Indian missions. The swift response of the Indian government and the unwavering support from the diaspora were instrumental in ensuring the safety of Indian citizens caught in the turmoil. This effort showcased India’s resolve to safeguard its people, no matter the challenges. Today, as India marches towards becoming a viksit (developed) nation, the contributions of its diaspora are integral to its journey. Their achievements abroad and their efforts to uphold the well-being of fellow Indians during crises reflect the indomitable spirit of a nation firmly rooted in unity and compassion. Read More: Indian Express Find more Global Indian Top Reads

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Vasco da Gama Tomb

Beside Vasco da Gama’s tomb, 500 years later: A story of neglected opportunities to lure foreign tourists

This article first appeared in The Economic Times on January 11, 2025. In the heart of Kochi, St. Francis Church stands as a silent witness to history, housing the tomb of Vasco da Gama for 14 years before his remains were taken back to Portugal. Visiting the church on December 24, I realized it marked exactly 500 years since da Gama’s death in 1524. Yet, the milestone passed unnoticed by the government or tourism boards, despite its potential to attract European, especially Portuguese, tourists. Da Gama’s legacy, albeit contested, could have been a springboard for cultural diplomacy and tourism innovation. India’s approach to leveraging its colonial past for tourism remains lackluster. Iconic slogans like “Incredible India” and “God’s Own Country” need a dynamic refresh. Neglected landmarks, such as Assam’s British-era tramway near Raimona National Park, highlight missed opportunities. These steam engines, now used to dry clothes, could be restored into an interactive historical attraction. Pairing this with the park’s elusive golden langurs would create a unique blend of history and nature to draw visitors. Further east, Manipur’s Red Hills offers another example of untapped potential. The site of a fierce World War II battle between Japanese and Allied forces, it now hosts a peace museum inaugurated in 2019 with support from Japan’s Nippon Foundation. The museum and a Japanese-built memorial bearing the poignant message, “This monument will stand as a prayer for peace,” reflect a commitment to reconciliation. Red Hills could be reimagined as a pilgrimage for Japanese and British tourists, honoring a shared history of sacrifice and peace. India’s tourism sector, which sustains 45 million jobs and contributes 6.8% to the GDP, is underperforming. Between January and June 2024, only 4.7 million foreign tourists visited India, a 10% decline from pre-Covid numbers in 2019. Amid global “revenge travel,” this decline underscores the urgency for creative strategies. Instead of dismissing colonial-era relics as remnants of exploitation, India should embrace their narratives to attract global tourists. Integrating historical preservation with compelling storytelling can bring fresh energy to the tourism sector. By highlighting overlooked landmarks and creating immersive experiences, India can harness its rich past to build a vibrant future in tourism. Let the echoes of history transform into opportunities for global connections and economic growth... Read more in The Economic Times

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Canada-India Relations | Justin Trudeau Resignation

What Justin Trudeau’s Exit Means For Indian Canadians

The article first appeared in NDTV on Jan 7, 2025. Justin Trudeau's resignation as Canada’s Prime Minister marks the end of an era characterized by ambitious immigration policies, humanitarian commitments, and a mixed legacy. After nearly a decade in office, his departure leaves Canada at a pivotal moment, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre emerging as the frontrunner to shape the nation’s future direction. Poilievre's platform promises a departure from Trudeau’s policies, with an emphasis on reforming the immigration system among other sweeping changes. Trudeau’s tenure stood out for its bold immigration targets and global humanitarian efforts. His government’s plan to welcome over 500,000 permanent residents annually by 2025 aimed to address critical labour shortages and counteract Canada’s ageing population. However, this strategy sparked debate. While it was lauded for its vision, critics contend that the rapid influx of immigrants has placed immense pressure on essential public services, including housing, healthcare, and infrastructure. Among Trudeau’s notable accomplishments was Canada’s commitment to refugee resettlement. His government facilitated the arrival of over 40,000 Syrian refugees and introduced the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, which granted temporary refuge to over 200,000 Ukrainians fleeing the war. These initiatives underscored Canada’s role as a global leader in humanitarian efforts, earning praise both domestically and internationally. Despite these achievements, Trudeau’s immigration policies also faced backlash. Some Indian Canadians, for instance, described his resignation as "bittersweet," acknowledging his efforts to create opportunities for newcomers while criticizing the challenges these policies introduced. Additionally, tensions in Canada-India relations, particularly surrounding diplomatic disagreements and issues of separatist movements, added another layer of complexity, influencing public perception of his leadership within the Indian diaspora. As Pierre Poilievre positions himself as Trudeau’s potential successor, his platform signals a shift. Poilievre has criticized the Liberal government’s handling of immigration, vowing to implement reforms aimed at ensuring a balanced approach that supports Canada’s economic needs while addressing the capacity of public services. Trudeau’s resignation offers an opportunity for Canada to reflect on the successes and shortcomings of his leadership. While his tenure cemented Canada’s reputation as a welcoming and compassionate nation, it also highlighted the complexities of balancing humanitarian goals with domestic realities, including managing Canada-India relations amid diplomatic tensions and disagreements. As Canada enters this new political chapter, the choices made in the coming months will shape the nation’s identity and priorities for years to come. Read more: NDTV Find more Global Indian Top Reads

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Indians in London Own More Property

Indians own more property in London than Englishmen; netizens take ‘karma’ jibe: ‘At least they did it legally’

This article was published in the Mint January 2, 2025.

A recent report by Barratt London, a prominent property developer, has revealed a significant milestone: Indians have emerged as the largest group of property owners in London, surpassing native British residents. This finding, which reflects the growing global economic influence of Indians, sparked widespread discussions online. Many users interpreted it as a poetic twist of history, drawing parallels to Britain’s colonial past in India. The report categorizes Indian property owners in London into several groups: UK residents of Indian origin who have lived there for generations, non-resident Indians (NRIs), foreign investors, and those relocating for educational purposes. This diverse representation underscores the multifaceted contributions of the Indian diaspora and highlights their robust financial presence in a highly competitive real estate market. The news gained traction after being shared by the BRICS official account on X (formerly Twitter), amassing 15 million views in just two days. The comment section brimmed with reactions, many linking this phenomenon to historical events. One user pointed out that the word “loot” originated from the Hindustani language during colonial times, symbolizing the plunder of India’s wealth between 1765 and 1938 by the British Empire. Another emphasized the $45 trillion estimated wealth drained from India under British rule, calling for its restitution, alongside the iconic Kohinoor diamond still set in the British Crown Jewels. Social media discussions were rife with a sense of justice and irony. A recurring sentiment was that Indians acquired their ownership legally, unlike the exploitative methods of colonial rule. “At least Indians did it legally,” one user noted, contrasting it with Britain's history of taking resources from India during their 200-year rule. Another aptly summed up the scenario as “karma,” with Indians now owning a significant stake in Britain’s capital, but through fair competition in a globalized environment. This phenomenon is more than a mere shift in property ownership; it symbolizes the evolving dynamics of power and influence in the modern world. It highlights how a nation that once suffered under colonial rule has risen to reclaim its place on the global stage through resilience, hard work, and legal avenues. As Indians continue to assert their presence in London, it serves as a reminder of how history can take transformative turns, balancing past injustices with contemporary achievements. Read more at the Mint Find more Global Indian Top Reads
 

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H1B Visa Program

America’s H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here’s why

The article first appeared in WION on Dec 31, 2024. The United States' increasing protectionism under the H1B visa program, particularly during Donald Trump’s second term, is poised to bring unexpected advantages to India. As the U.S. implements policies aimed at curbing the inflow of foreign skilled workers to protect domestic employment, Indian professionals and the country’s broader economy stand to gain from the ripple effects of this shift. For decades, the H1B visa program has been a key avenue for Indian talent, especially in technology and engineering, to contribute to the U.S. economy. India has consistently been the largest source of H1B applicants, with its skilled workforce playing an integral role in the success of Silicon Valley. However, tightening restrictions on these visas—through reduced quotas, stricter eligibility criteria, and increased costs for employers—may limit opportunities for Indian professionals to work in the U.S. While this initially appears disadvantageous, it could catalyze a significant reversal of talent flow and bolster India’s own innovation ecosystem. First, as the U.S. imposes barriers, many Indian professionals will choose to remain in India, leading to a "brain gain" rather than the "brain drain" of previous decades. This shift will strengthen India's tech industry, fostering a surge in entrepreneurship and innovation within the country. With global companies increasingly establishing operations in India, particularly in the IT and startup sectors, skilled professionals are likely to find attractive opportunities closer to home. Second, U.S. firms facing challenges in accessing Indian talent through H1B visas may opt to expand their offshore operations in India. This trend could lead to greater investment in Indian tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune. Companies may also ramp up remote work policies, enabling Indian professionals to contribute to global projects without the need for physical relocation. While U.S. protectionism under the H1B program may create short-term disruptions for individual workers and companies, it offers India an unprecedented opportunity to retain its talent, attract investment, and strengthen its position in the global economy. In the long term, the shift could contribute significantly to India’s growth and technological self-reliance... Read More: WION Find more Global Indian Top Reads

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EB-5 Visa Opportunities

EB-5 visa offers an investment route to US citizenship and permanent residency

The article first appeared in the Financial Express on January 3, 2025. The United States of America, often celebrated as the land of opportunity, has inspired generations of individuals worldwide. Its influence is vividly captured in the nation’s music, where songs like James Brown’s 1985 classic Living in America reflect pride in the country's progress and prosperity. Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus’s Party in the USA celebrates the vibrancy and spirit of living in America, painting a picture of life’s possibilities. These musical pieces resonate with a shared dream: the pursuit of a better life, economic success, and personal freedom—a dream that attracts countless people from all corners of the globe. America’s allure lies not only in its cultural influence but also in its vast opportunities. For young professionals aiming to grow their careers, entrepreneurs seeking a thriving ecosystem, or students aspiring for world-class education, the U.S. offers an unmatched environment for growth and success. Immigration pathways like the EB-5 visa program have made it possible for high-net-worth individuals to invest in the country while building a life in the U.S. The EB-5 visa program, established in 1990, provides a direct route for foreigners to obtain permanent residency and potentially U.S. citizenship. To qualify, applicants must make a minimum investment of $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—typically rural or high-unemployment regions—or $1,050,000 in other areas. These investments must create or preserve at least ten full-time jobs for American workers, aligning the program with the nation’s goal of fostering economic growth. What makes the EB-5 visa program particularly attractive is its simplicity and its immediate benefits. Successful applicants and their families gain the ability to reside, work, and study anywhere in the United States. They also enjoy access to high-quality healthcare and education systems, along with the ability to travel freely to and from the country. For investors, the program represents a stable, secure opportunity to contribute to the U.S. economy while gaining a pathway to the American dream. It is especially appealing for individuals seeking both financial growth and personal fulfillment. As a testament to America’s welcoming spirit, the EB-5 visa stands as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to fostering global connections while preserving its core values of freedom, innovation, and prosperity. Through music, culture, and immigration pathways like the EB-5 program, the United States continues to inspire and fulfill the aspirations of people worldwide... Read More at the Financial Express Find more Global Indian Top Reads

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Global Indian | World in Numbers

Statistically speaking

1.5 Million

Foreign tourists are expected to attend Maha Kumbh Mela this year, according to Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

400 Million

The estimated number of pilgrims from India and abroad at the millennia-old Kumbh Mela, being held along the riverbanks of Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025.

7 Indian films

Have secured a spot in the eligibility criteria list for the Best Picture Category at Oscars 2025.

6000 NRIs

From 75 countries attended the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards ceremony held in Bhubaneshwar from January 8 to 10.

27 Non-Resident Indians

Have been selected for the 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA), the country’s highest honour for overseas Indians. This year’s event themed ‘Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat’, will be held from January 8-10 at Bhubaneshwar.

2 million

Indians travelled to the US in the first 11 months of 2024, a 26% jump from 2023.

Global Indian | Did You Know? 

Fun facts about India and Global Indians

Steve Jobs' wife Laurene Powell Jobs, who is a follower of Swami Kailashnand Giri, is in Prayagraj to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela

India's passport now ranks 85th, down from 80th, on the Henley Passport Index 2025. The index, based on data from the International Air Transport Association, evaluates 199 passports by their visa-free travel score.

Malayalam film Aadujeevitham has entered the Oscars 2025 race, making it to the initial round in the Best Picture category — a rare feat for Indian films, which typically compete in the International Feature Film category.

Microsoft has announced a US$3 billion investment over the next two years to expand India's cloud and AI infrastructure, aiming to accelerate AI adoption, skilling, and innovation.

Hindustani Samaj, the oldest Indian organisation to be set up in Russia in 1957, has been honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025 for promoting Indian culture and heritage in the country

Daulatpur Nasirabad in Haryana was renamed Carterpuri to honour U.S. President Jimmy Carter after his visit during his term. His mother, Lillian, lived there in the 1960s as a Peace Corps volunteer. The renaming was advised by then Indian PM Morarji Desai.

Global Indian | Quotes

Publisher’s Corner

Xavier Augustin

Global Indians are highly-skilled and dynamic risk-takers, the drivers of Brand India around the world. The stage is set and it belongs to you. What’s your story?