- Indian Consulate in Barcelona organises panel discussion on Viksit Bharat 2047.
- Experts highlight diaspora’s role in investment, innovation and skill development.
- Speakers stress technology transfer, startups and women’s empowerment.
- Event concludes with interaction on strengthening India’s global growth journey.
GG News Bureau
Barcelona, 14th July: The Consulate General of India in Barcelona organised a panel discussion on “The Role of the Indian Diaspora in Viksit Bharat 2047”, highlighting the contribution of overseas Indians towards India’s long-term development goals. The event was held in collaboration with Samagra Vikas Nyas.
The programme began with an introduction by a Consulate official, who outlined the objectives of the discussion and introduced the panelists. Also present at the panel discussion were Ms. Arsha N.S. (Consul & Head of Chancery),
Mr. Sudipta Roy (Consul), Mr. Sumod Sarasan (Vice Consul – Administration), and Mr. Rahul Chauhan (Vice Consul), who played a key role in the successful organisation of the event. The deliberations focused on the Indian diaspora’s role in promoting innovation, investment, entrepreneurship and global partnerships to support India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Senior journalist and entrepreneur Dr. Alok Lahad said the Indian diaspora contributed an estimated 130–135 billion US dollars to India’s foreign exchange reserves last year, describing it as a significant contribution to the country’s economy. He said Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can play a larger role by encouraging investments, sharing technical expertise with Indian youth and supporting skill development.
Dr. Lahad also emphasised collaboration in sectors such as electronics, manufacturing and technology, while encouraging the diaspora to mentor startups and promote women-led entrepreneurship.
Senior scientist Dr. Gyanendra Singh, based in Barcelona, said the Indian diaspora is playing a transformative role in achieving the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. He noted that Indians living abroad contribute as scientists, entrepreneurs, mentors and cultural ambassadors, strengthening India’s progress in technology, education, business and innovation.
He said the diaspora’s investments, expertise and global outlook enrich the country, while their support for startups, youth mentorship and promotion of Indian culture helps build stronger international partnerships.
Dr. Kumar Rakesh highlighted the Government of India’s achievements over the past 12 years in areas such as infrastructure development, Digital India and transparent governance. He said investments in highways, railways, airports and smart cities have strengthened connectivity and economic growth, while digital initiatives have improved governance, reduced corruption and enhanced the delivery of public services.
The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants engaged with the speakers on various aspects of India’s development roadmap. The organisers expressed confidence that the continued participation of the global Indian community would play a vital role in making India more prosperous, innovative and inclusive by the centenary of its independence in 2047.
