The Indian Diaspora: NRI, OCI, PIO Differences and Overview
Indian Diaspora: India has a vast cultural and traditional heritage, which gives it a distinct recognition in the world. Besides making a significant impact as a country, many people of Indian origin have established themselves in foreign lands. This way, they represent and spread Indian values and cultures on foreign lands.
Today, there is hardly any nation where Indians have not spread. Be it the UK, Canada, the US, Japan or Australia, Indian communities are thriving everywhere. The Indian Diaspora is commonly categorised as NRI, OCI, and PIO. These groups are crucial because they act as a medium to connect the countries they live in with India.
What is Indian Diaspora?
The Indian Diaspora is like a big family spread across the world. Members of this family have roots in India but live elsewhere. To earn a livelihood or get education, people of Indian origin moved and settled in different countries, making a considerable impact wherever they went.
Indian diaspora works hard to keep Indian traditions alive, acting as ambassadors for Indian culture. Through events, festivals, and community groups, they connect India with their new homes.
Their economic contributions are also huge. They are known to invest in both their new countries and India, helping them grow. The Indian diaspora plays a big part in shaping the world while keeping close ties to their Indian heritage.
Overview of NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs
The Indian diaspora is often categorised into different groups, including NRI, OCI, and PIO. All these groups have significant differences. The following points provide an overview of NRIs, PIOs and OCIs:
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Non-Residential Indians (NRIs)
NRIs are individuals of Indian origin or people who live outside of India and have Indian citizenship. They may temporarily or permanently reside in a foreign country for reasons like work, education, or business. People recognised as NRIs usually maintain strong connections to India and have family ties, cultural bonds, or financial interests in their home country.
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Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)
OCI is a special status granted by the Indian government to people of Indian origin living abroad. It offers lifelong visa privileges, allowing OCI cardholders to travel to and stay in India without needing additional visas. The OCI Scheme was created in August 2005. According to this scheme, PIOs who were Indian citizens after 26 January 1950 or were eligible for Indian citizenship on that date get government permissions with certain exceptions.
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Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)
PIOs are people with foreign citizenship or residency who can trace their roots back to India. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, PIOs are foreign citizens (except those from specific countries) who meet any of the following criteria:
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Previously held an Indian passport.
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Have ancestors born and permanently residing in India.
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Married to Indian citizens.
Top 8 Countries with Highest Indian Diaspora
The following countries have the highest number of Indian Diaspora:
|
SL. No. |
Country |
Approximate Indian Diaspora |
|
1 |
US |
8,920,000 |
|
2 |
UAE |
6,850,288 |
|
3 |
Malaysia |
5,975,900 |
|
4 |
Saudi Arabia |
5,189,894 |
|
5 |
Myanmar |
4,018,404 |
|
6 |
UK |
3,528,000 |
|
7 |
Canada |
3,378,110 |
|
8 |
Sri Lanka |
3,228,000 |
Key Differences Between NRI, OCI and PIO
NRI, OCI, and PIO share numerous similarities, yet they also have significant differences. The table below presents a comparison between these three categories to explain their differences:
|
Questions |
NRI |
PIO |
OCI |
|
Requirement of visa for visiting India |
No |
Yes |
Can visit India without a visa for a lifetime. |
|
Need to register with the local police authorities in India |
No |
Yes if residing in India over 180 days |
No |
|
Activities they can perform in India |
All activities |
Activities according to the type of visa obtained |
All activities except research work for which special permission is required from the Indian Mission/FRRO/Post. |
|
How to acquire Indian citizenship? |
He/she is an Indian citizen. |
OCIs must be ordinarily resident in India for a period of 7 years before making an application for registration. |
An individual registered as an OCI cardholder for 5+ years and who is ordinarily residing in India for 12 months before making the application for registration is eligible for a get the Indian citizenship. In case of special conditions, the 12 month stay period can be reduced to 30 days after recording the circumstances in writing. |
Which Organisations Serve the Interests of NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs?
There are numerous institutions and entities dedicated to addressing the needs and concerns of NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs. Below are some notable organisations that serve the interests of the Indian diaspora:
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Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): It is responsible for managing affairs concerning the Indian diaspora. The MEA oversees various divisions and initiatives focused on addressing the needs of NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs.
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Indian Missions/Embassies/Consulates: Operating in different countries, Indian missions, embassies, and consulates provide essential services and support to NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs. These include visa assistance and consular services, and help in resolving issues related to diaspora.
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NRI/OCI/PIO Forums: Worldwide forums and associations cater to the needs and interests of NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs. These organisations facilitate networking opportunities and cultural exchanges and also serve as platforms for addressing common concerns and challenges.
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Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre (OIFC): The OIFC assists the Indian diaspora in their economic and social interactions with India. It offers information, guidance, and facilitation services to NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs. This way, OIFC assists the Indian diaspora in engaging with India.
Can NRI, OCI & PIO Students Apply for Indian Entrance Exams?
Many entrance exams that are conducted by Indian organisations invite applications from NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs. These include esteemed IIT JEE and NEET. Aspirants aiming to join the best engineering and medical institutes in India must register for JEE and NEET. Additionally, they should follow a strategic preparation plan to excel in these exams with commendable scores.
To help the Indian Diaspora initiate effective preparation, PW Gulf provides coaching classes for NEET and JEE. These classes are led by expert faculties who offer comprehensive syllabus coverage and conduct weekly test series to assess candidates’ preparedness.
Indian Diaspora FAQs
Q1. What is called Indian diaspora?
Ans. Indian Diaspora is a group of individuals who have Indian origin and are residents of foreign nations.
Q2. What is the difference between NRI and PIO/OCI?
Ans. NRIs are Indian citizens who are residents of a foreign country, while OCIs and PIOS are foreign nationals with their origin in India.
Q3. Who are OCI and PIO card holders?
Ans. OCI card holders are permitted to stay in India for any duration, whereas PIO card holders need to register with the local police station to reside in India for a period extending 180 days.
Q4. Can an OCI work in India?
Ans. Yes, OCI card holders are allowed to work in India.
Q5. How long can a NRI stay in India?
Ans. NRIs can stay in India for a maximum of 182 days.
