India Awards Pravasi Bharatiya Samman to Kangaloo

India recently honoured Christine Carla Kangaloo, the President of Trinidad and Tobago, with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. This accolade recognises her exceptional contributions to public affairs and her role in enhancing India’s global standing. The award was presented at a Republic Day reception by the High Commissioner of India to Trinidad and Tobago.

Background of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award

• The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is the highest honour awarded to overseas Indians.
• It acknowledges individuals who have made contributions in various fields.
• This award aims to strengthen the relationship between India and its diaspora worldwide.

Christine Carla Kangaloo’s Achievements

Kangaloo is notable for her achievements in public service. As an Indo-Trinidadian, she has played a vital role in encouraging ties between India and Trinidad and Tobago. Her leadership has been marked by efforts to enhance cultural, social, and economic connections between the two nations.

Historical Ties Between India and Trinidad and Tobago

• The relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago dates back to 1845 when Indian indentured workers first arrived.
• This migration influenced the demographic and cultural landscape of Trinidad and Tobago.
• Today, around 42 per cent of the country’s population descends from these workers.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention

Kangaloo served as the chief guest at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Her virtual address brought into light the longstanding ties between the two nations and praised India’s contributions to various fields, including education and medicine.

India’s Global Contributions

During her speech, Kangaloo acknowledged India’s historical achievements. She referenced the establishment of the world’s first university in Takshashila and the development of Ayurveda. Moreover, she celebrated India’s mathematical innovations, including algebra and the concept of zero.

Impact of the Indian Diaspora

Kangaloo emphasised the contributions of the Indian diaspora to global progress. She noted their role in cultural and economic development. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a platform for collaboration between India and its overseas citizens.

Recognition and Gratitude

Kangaloo expressed her gratitude for receiving the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. She acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support during the Covid pandemic, particularly regarding vaccine assistance. This recognition puts stress on her commitment to strengthening ties between India and Trinidad and Tobago.

Significance of the Award

The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award represents a commitment to recognising the contributions of overseas Indians. It aims to encourage a sense of belonging and connection among the Indian diaspora. This award marks the importance of cultural and historical ties between India and its global citizens.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the significance of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in strengthening India’s ties with its diaspora.
2. Discuss the historical migration of Indian indentured workers to Trinidad and Tobago and its impact on the country’s demographic landscape.
3. Critically discuss the contributions of the Indian diaspora to global cultural and economic development.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of cultural events like the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in enhancing India’s global image.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the significance of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in strengthening India’s ties with its diaspora.

1. The award is the highest honor for overseas Indians, recognizing their contributions across various fields.
2. It encourages a sense of belonging and connection among the Indian diaspora worldwide.
3. By honoring individuals like Kangaloo, it marks India’s appreciation for the achievements of its global citizens.
4. The award serves as a diplomatic tool, enhancing bilateral relations and cultural exchanges.
5. It encourages collaboration between India and its diaspora, promoting shared goals and values.

2. Discuss the historical migration of Indian indentured workers to Trinidad and Tobago and its impact on the country’s demographic landscape.

1. Indian indentured workers arrived in Trinidad and Tobago starting in 1845, influencing the population’s composition.
2. Today, around 42% of the Trinidadian population descends from these workers, shaping the cultural identity of the nation.
3. The migration led to the introduction of Indian customs, traditions, and religions, enriching Trinidad and Tobago’s multicultural society.
4. This demographic shift contributed to the economic development of the country, particularly in agriculture and trade.
5. The historical ties established through this migration continue to strengthen relations between India and Trinidad and Tobago.

3. Critically discuss the contributions of the Indian diaspora to global cultural and economic development.

1. The Indian diaspora has influenced global culture through cuisine, festivals, and art, enriching host countries.
2. They have made substantial contributions to various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance.
3. Indian communities worldwide promote entrepreneurship, creating jobs and driving economic growth in their respective countries.
4. They serve as cultural ambassadors, encouraging understanding and collaboration between India and other nations.
5. The diaspora’s philanthropic efforts often support education, healthcare, and social causes in both host and home countries.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of cultural events like the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in enhancing India’s global image.

1. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a platform for showcasing India’s cultural heritage, promoting its traditions globally.
2. The event strengthens connections between India and its diaspora, reinforcing a shared cultural identity.
3. By inviting prominent figures like Kangaloo, it marks India’s respect and recognition for contributions made by the diaspora.
4. Cultural exchanges during the event promote mutual understanding and cooperation in various fields.
5. Such events enhance India’s soft power, portraying it as a vibrant and inclusive nation on the global stage.