Our Editorial, Indians should learn to unite published in our September 1 2010 issue appears to have touched some raw nerves. A number of readers questioned our statement that the “Indian High Commissioner should support organisations that are well-established with a record of activities, and not those that wield money power.”
They felt that it was wrong for us to state that he was not already extending such support to deserving organisations; which indeed was not the import of our editorial.
We clarify our belief that the current incumbent, with his expertise, wisdom and most important of all, discipline (as the former Chief of Indian Navy) would be able to influence a more orderly state of affairs among the Indian Diaspora.
But we wish to state again that the community must unite, at least to organise events of national significance and demonstrate its solidarity.
Having corrected our stand (hopefully), we believe there is a need for a formal entity that would coordinate the activities of various organisations, and promote India’s culture and heritage as a united front.
The High Commissioner would do well to create an umbrella, which would cover all organisations, which have People of Indian Origin as their members. Currently, there is no such entity, which could claim to include all groups in the community.
On a different score, the increasing interest evinced by the Diaspora in politics is worthy of note. While the presence (for the first time) of two persons of Indian origin in the New Zealand Parliament has encouraged the community to be more vociferous on issues, it has also prompted many to seek an entry into political life through the ensuing Local Government Elections. In Auckland alone, as many as 32 people from the Indian Sub-Continent (mostly of Indian origin) are contesting for various posts. This in itself is a good thing, for a Local Government with a multi-ethnic mix would be more progressive and foster inclusive politics.
The Indian Diaspora is perking up is probably because of the increasing use of the Internet and social websites.
Politics is just one part of the Diaspora’s e-revival. Reassembling fragmented cultures is another. There are plenty of examples in other cultures.
Circassians can find their long-lost music and dance on YouTube.
Information about history and culture that was once obscure or falsified is now a click away. Online Circassian dictionaries and language courses are emerging. Internet forums can facilitate the search for a spouse.
For some Diaspora, any alternative to politics is welcome. In Ukraine, the Diaspora is the biggest donor for the Ukrainian Catholic University, the country’s main independent provider of higher learning. Rigorous education is less glamorous than getting Ukraine into NATO or keeping the Russian bear at bay. But the gains are palpable, in contrast to the chaos and corruption of Kiev politics, which faze many émigrés.
Non-Resident Indians are the single largest source of foreign remittances to India. In recent years, entrepreneurs and investors of Indian origin have been contributing to the growth of the economy establishing manufacturing units, partnerships and business ventures.
A community that was not too long ago a silent spectator is today an active participant in almost every segment of the economy.
Indians have arrived. They corroborate in business with a sense of unity and purpose, enjoying benefits of partnership.
It is time they displayed similar unity within the community and the society.
