The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) has submitted a memorandum to India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar outlining concerns and policy suggestions gathered from members of the worldwide Indian diaspora.
The document was presented by GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham during Jaishankar’s recent visit to New York, where the minister was participating in an event at the Asia Society. The recommendations cover several areas, including consular services, administrative procedures, philanthropy, cultural engagement and greater participation by overseas Indians in India-focused initiatives.
The memorandum calls for a simpler and more accessible process for obtaining Overseas Citizen of India cards and proposes creating a mechanism that would allow eligible nonresident Indians and OCI cardholders to obtain Aadhaar cards. GOPIO also highlighted challenges faced by overseas Indians attempting to provide financial support to legitimate charitable, educational and social-service organizations in India.
Another major recommendation concerns the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. GOPIO suggested giving the global Indian community a stronger presence by including more diaspora speakers and panelists. It also urged the government to recognize previous Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award recipients at future events and create opportunities for overseas community leaders to engage directly with officials from the External Affairs and Home ministries.
The organization further recommended involving qualified diaspora scientists, technology professionals and entrepreneurs in government advisory bodies. Other proposals included exploring international credit-card payments for certain transactions in India and addressing visa challenges faced by members of the Pakistani American Hindu Sindhi community seeking to visit India for religious, cultural and family purposes.
GOPIO also raised passport renewal concerns involving Indians in the United States with unresolved immigration status, along with the need for programs that connect second- and third-generation Indian Americans with India through education, culture, technology and professional exchanges.
The memorandum followed a September 26 meeting between GOPIO representatives, Indian Consulate officials and MEA representatives. Community organizations at that meeting discussed additional concerns involving banking, philanthropy, cultural tourism and youth engagement.
GOPIO said its proposals are intended as constructive recommendations rather than a list of grievances. The organization plans to continue discussions with the Indian government and relevant ministries to strengthen cooperation between India and its global diaspora.
