This article highlights the priorities and expectations of non-resident Indians (NRIs) from the incoming government based on a general survey conducted on a WhatsApp group. Join our WhatsApp Channel at https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaUYR3K7NoZtVBdBGY0U
It emphasizes the need for the government to align with India’s aspirations and emerge as a responsible global leader. India should aims to navigate the complexities of international politics, assert its rightful place on the world stage, and achieve its objectives through economic diplomacy and bolstering national security.
The excerpt concludes with a reflection on the crucial role of media in presenting pertinent issues to the public before the elections. It emphasizes the need for informative and research-driven coverage over sensationalism and propaganda.
The Indian expatriate community, especially those whose visas or citizenship allow them to reside in the United States, provides a unique perspective on Indian Lok Sabha elections in the constantly evolving dynamics of international relations.
As part of India’s global engagement, these voices present a distinct perspective on the priorities of the Lok Sabha elections.
We recently surveyed 1000 NRI members to determine their priorities and hopes for the new government in light of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The survey question was, “According to you, which aspect of India’s international relations should be the top priority for the upcoming government after the elections?”
It’s important to note that the question wasn’t posed to gauge support for any particular political figure. Instead, it was intended to understand the perspectives and sentiments of Indians living outside of India due to employment, education, business, or other reasons.
These individuals are familiar with the all kind of situations in India and recognize its potential, as well as its hidden shortcomings. Furthermore, they are currently living in the United States, a country known for its economic and technological prowess.
To effectively communicate with individuals who have experience with diverse and democratic nations, it was of utmost importance to pose a question that emphasizes impartiality and prioritizes representing India’s interests and progress on the global platform. In response to this question, they were provided with five options:
1. Strengthening relations with neighboring countries.
2. Expanding global alliances and partnerships.
3. Enhancing economic diplomacy and trade relations.
4. Active participation in international organizations.
5. Increasing national security and defense cooperation.
All these options are crucial issues in the international context that demand attention from the prospective Indian government.
This survey presented options encompassing political, economic, and security-related objectives.
Two clear frontrunners emerged among these options: “Enhancing economic diplomacy and trade relations” and “Increasing national security and defense cooperation.”
The overwhelming support received for both these options underscores their paramount importance to the election issues in the eyes of Indian expatriates.
At a time when global economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions loom large, NRIs are signaling a solid mandate for the upcoming Indian government to prioritize economic development and ensure national security.
The emphasis on enhancing economic diplomacy and trade relations resonates deeply with their sentiments, recognizing the critical role of economic prosperity in India’s global standing.
Strengthening commercial ties and fostering economic partnerships can undeniably contribute to a multidimensional development model, not only domestically but also internationally. This isn’t just about job creation; it’s also about bolstering India internally.
People believe India’s presence on the world stage is crucial, with numerous significant reasons underlying this perspective, advocating for global political, cultural, and economic stability.
Indian expatriates residing in America observe the “American business and development model.” Therefore, in this survey, they advocate for policies that facilitate the convenient flow of trade and investment, promote entrepreneurship, and fully utilize India’s economic potential.
People perceive that the role of government in the economy is vastly different between India and the United States. The United States generally adopts a more market-oriented approach with limited government intervention.
In contrast, India’s economy has historically seen a more prominent role for the government in economic planning, regulation, and public sector enterprises. America boasts a highly industrialized and technologically advanced economy, home to numerous multinational corporations, leading research institutions, and cutting-edge innovation centers.
On the other hand, India is undergoing rapid industrialization and technological advancement but still faces challenges in reaching fundamental infrastructure, skill development, and technological access.
Additionally, America’s economy is diverse and advanced, emphasizing services, manufacturing, technology, and innovation. Conversely, India’s economy is characterized by a significant informal sector and a large rural population with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
However, people’s reactions in this context indicate mixed feelings about the current government’s efforts. While there are several points of agreement and disagreement, they also acknowledge that the Indian government is consistently striving in this direction, albeit the pace of efforts should be accelerated.
Recent reports from the International Trade Organization show that trade relations between India and the United States are promising. Click here to check report https://www.trade.gov/knowledge-product/exporting-india-market-overview
By 2022, trade in goods and services between the two countries is expected to exceed $191 billion. Despite facing challenges such as currency fluctuations and supply chain disruptions, India’s economy has become one of the fastest-growing economies globally.
The Indian government focuses on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) & in various sectors, including information technology services, software, professional services, pharmaceuticals, and industrial machinery.
As India’s largest single source of FDI, the United States plays a significant role in this bilateral partnership.
However, due to market access barriers such as tariffs, localization requirements, indigenous standard directives, labeling practices, price controls, and import bans, American enterprises need help accessing the market in India, especially in government procurement.
Despite these challenges, India has become an attractive destination for many American exporters, particularly in information technology, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering.
To succeed in this dynamic market, American companies operating in India must maintain flexibility by aligning long-term planning horizons and strategies with regional conditions.
According to this report, there are plenty of opportunities for businesses operating between India and the United States but also significant challenges.
According to another report, India’s regulatory environment presents an essential challenge for foreign investors due to bureaucratic hurdles, inconsistent policy implementation, legal challenges and disputes, infrastructure constraints, labor laws and regulations, and compliance and reporting requirements.
Read more at https://www.whitecase.com/insight-our-thinking/investing-india-legal-reform-dispute
Addressing complexities for foreign investors and creating a conducive business environment through a transparent and straightforward process is a crucial strategy akin to dismantling the maze in bureaucratic environments.
Another issue in technical trade agreements is data and other technical security, for which the non-resident population is seeking a highly skilled political face in the new government.
As international turmoil continues, business success requires India to have a government that balances global economic diplomacy and ensures that opportunities are noticed.
India’s economic success can enhance its cultural influence, geopolitical position, and international prestige, ultimately demonstrating its soft power on the world stage. Economic strength enhances a country’s soft power, increasing its ability to influence others through attraction and persuasion rather than coercion.
Another crucial option chosen was the “call to enhance national security and defense cooperation,” which highlights the concerns of non-resident Indians about India’s security interests in an increasingly volatile world.
With numerous security threats arising from terrorism, border disputes, and cyber warfare, it is imperative to contemplate enhancing India’s defense capabilities and forming strategic partnerships with like-minded countries.
By prioritizing national security, the incoming government can build confidence among its non-resident Indian (NRI) community and assure them of India’s commitment to protecting its citizens and regional integrity.
However, it must be reiterated here that the efforts of the Indian government to assist its non-resident Indian (NRI) community are commendable. From embassy and consulate services to legal assistance and grievance redressal, the government has taken several steps to address the concerns of Indians living abroad.
However, the significance of this survey goes beyond the priorities of overseas Indians; it showcases India’s emerging role on the global stage. In international politics, India plays a vital role as the largest democracy and the fastest-growing economic power. India’s Lok Sabha elections will not only influence the country’s domestic trajectory but also have global repercussions.
Against the backdrop of geopolitical realignments and changing alliances, India’s strategic decisions will have far-reaching implications for regional stability and global governance. The option deemed necessary by non-resident Indians can pave the way for a government that aligns with India’s aspirations to emerge as a responsible global leader.
Whether within the country or abroad, Indians want to send policymakers a clear message that the time has come for bold, decisive action to advance India on the path of progress and prosperity.
By leveraging economic diplomacy and strengthening national security, India can confidently overcome the complexities of international politics and claim its rightful place on the world stage.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The future depends on what you do today.”
Indians also acknowledge strongly that the perspective and outcome of the elections will also depend on how the country’s media portrays development-related reporting to the public!
Also read about empowering Chandgad at https://journals-times.com/2024/03/01/empowering-chandgad-shivaji-patils-plans-for-accessible-basic-necessities-and-local-development/
Therefore, before the elections, every relevant issue, big or small, should come before the public and should come with research, not as noise, not as propaganda!
What is your thought about it?
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