Mr Himanshu Bhatt from Malaysia talked about the diaspora’s longing to connect with their roots. He quoted Dr V.S. Naipul’s example while reminiscing on the spirit of Indian-ness. He felt that the 200-member strong Malaysian contingent during past PBDs also represented that longing in the diaspora to connect with India in various ways.

In conclusion, Dr Chetty summed up the enriching discussion. He was hopeful that the Government of India would take into consideration the needs of the diaspora and reinitiate a thread for active engagement in areas of expertise, education, research, entrepreneurship, and core Indian values. Dr Chetty echoed the sentiments of the panel regarding an evaluation of the impact of the closure of diaspora facilitation institutions by a formal auditing authority instituted by the Government of India. Dr Chetty also noted that the needs of the diaspora should be reassessed. Political hindrances to the seamless commercial exchanges will need to be ironed out as well. Motivation for the youth demography to engage actively also needs to be reevaluated. Expanding the scope of engagement by picking up education, research, healthcare, technology, and other sunshine sectors is an imminent requirement.

The meeting concluded on a hopeful note with suggestions from both Dr Malay Mishra and Lord Ranger. Lord Ranger also suggested creating a forum for “Friends of India Empire.”