IndUS Canada Forum Urges India to Consider Dual Citizenship
The IndUS Canada Forum, which represents 79 organizations of the Indian diaspora in the United States and Canada, has once again asked the Indian government to consider introducing dual citizenship or to improve the rights available under the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme. Vikram Bajwa, who heads the forum, pointed out that dual citizenship is not just a practical change, but a significant move that could enhance India’s position on the global stage.
At a recent press conference, Bajwa shared insights from the latest statistics by the Ministry of External Affairs, noting that over 8 million Indians now live in the US and Canada, representing a vital asset for India’s strategy overseas. However, he voiced the concern that without the security and rights offered by dual citizenship, India is missing out on the economic and professional contributions of its people living abroad.
He noted that many countries, including Israel, Canada, the UK, Australia, and even Pakistan, have successfully utilized dual citizenship to boost their diplomatic presence and economic development. “If these nations can leverage their diaspora for national progress, why should India limit itself to a lifelong visa under OCI?” he questioned.
Bajwa argued that dual citizenship could be a significant reform, helping India advance into a modern global economy and support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India. He added that it would provide essential stability to overseas Indians dealing with economic uncertainty, especially in the US. Recent trade tensions and geopolitical issues have left many Indian professionals uncertain, and dual citizenship would give them the confidence to invest and create long-term assets in India.
The forum also voiced concerns over rising security issues for the Indian community in Canada, particularly incidents affecting those from Punjab. With dual citizenship, these families could feel more secure, as it would offer them legal protection and support from India.
Moreover, the forum emphasized that granting dual citizenship could greatly enhance India’s economic, cultural, and diplomatic influence worldwide. Empowering Indians abroad could strengthen India’s soft power and improve its role in global decision-making.
Economically, dual citizenship might lead to unprecedented levels of investment in India, as non-resident Indians (NRIs) would be more inclined to make long-term commitments in various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, and real estate.
In terms of technology, dual citizenship could facilitate better knowledge sharing, collaborative research, and innovation across borders, helping India become a leader in high-tech industries.
The forum also highlighted that tourism, charitable initiatives, and community development efforts would likely grow with the introduction of dual citizenship. More frequent travel and easier compliance would encourage diaspora families to contribute significantly to India through humanitarian efforts and educational support.
The forum called on policymakers, including Prime Minister Modi, to recognize this longstanding request from the global Indian community. They underscored that dual citizenship is not just a privilege, but a vital opportunity for India to reach its full potential on the world stage.
