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It’s a bright era here in Houston.
We look forward to a wide range of programs in this dynamic and vibrant city of today and tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/JxzWtuaK5x
Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 21, 2019
The event, no doubt, provided a platform to showcase the growing influence and contributions of the American Indian community in the United States. with a great turnout, Howdy Modi showed the political and economic weight of the Indian diaspora.
The wooing of the American Indian community by both Republicans and Democrats has become more pronounced in recent times. With just 45,000 residents, Indian immigrants make up 1 percent of the US population, but pay six percent of the country’s total income tax. It is the second largest immigrant community in the United States. More than 40 Indian Americans have been elected to various positions across the United States. There are four MPs in the House – Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamurthy and Pramila Jayapal. There are a few mayors to boot. According to one report, there are 35 judges of Indian origin across the United States, which is a community record for judicial appointments.
The rise of Amerindian politicians in recent years is evidence of the growing influence of the community. Notable personalities like Kamala Harris, who has become First Indian American and woman of color to serve as Vice PresidentBarriers smashed. As the second generation of the American Indian community came of age, they began to become more involved in political activism and advocacy. Aware of the importance of representation, they sought to influence policies and shape political discourse at the local, state, and national levels.
People of Indian origin also occupy a dominant position in the business world. It is a matter of pride for every Indian that Indian Americans lead more than two dozen American companies, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Microsoft’s Satya Nadella. Above all, the growing influence of society can be gauged from the fact that the Biden administration has appointed 130 Indian Americans in as many key positions More than the administrations of both Trump and President Barack Obama.
Visiting Indian prime ministers have often interacted with the American Indian community. They’ve done it in other countries, too. But it was Modi who recognized their growing influence and reached out to them greatly soon after he came to power. Wherever he went, he would seek out the Indian diaspora and bring them into contact with India. He portrayed them as ambassadors of India, playing a crucial role in enhancing the country’s image, strengthening economic ties, and building political ties.
One of the main reasons for Modi’s strong relationship with the Indian diaspora in various countries is his charismatic leadership style. His famous oratorical skills, along with his ability to connect with people on an emotional level, helped him forge a personal connection with expatriates. PM Modi also knows that the diaspora is diverse, reflecting the Indian community back home. He looks out for everyone, regardless of their political allegiance.
But in the United States, he seems to have developed a special relationship with the vibrant American Indian community. He really understands that America is the only global superpower. Washington, D.C., is a bustling metropolis with visiting dignitaries and an ever-growing number of lobbyists and power brokers. Governments from all over the world want access to the Oval Office and vie for the president’s attention. It helps, in many ways, if you have people of Indian descent in the department.
American society generally believes the opposite. Modi understands this and, in return, is offering Indian Americans and other investors huge opportunities back home. It was not surprising to note the presence of a large number of key business leaders from both countries at the ‘Howdy Modi’ event. It served as a promotional opportunity Bilateral trade and investment between the United States and India. Moreover, Prime Minister Modi’s government has strengthened relations with the American Indian community through initiatives such as Devas Pravasi Bharatiya (India Day for Non-Residents) and the Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) Programwhich grants certain advantages and privileges to Indians abroad.
India’s growth story has been impressive in the past nine years. But huge challenges lie ahead. The Indian diaspora, especially in the US, can play a leading role in overcoming these challenges and moving India’s growth story forward smoothly.
The writer is a spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party, former Member of Parliament, and former Managing Director, Deutsche Bank, India.
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