GS2 – International Relations
Context:
During a recent diplomatic visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards will now be issued to sixth-generation persons of Indian origin in Trinidad and Tobago. This marks a significant outreach to the Indian diaspora in the Caribbean.
- Historic Visit: This is the first Prime Minister-level bilateral visit from India to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999.
- Recognition: PM Modi was honoured with the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the country’s highest civilian award.
Indian Diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago:
- Individuals of Indian origin constitute over 40% of the population (approximately 1.36 million).
- Their ancestors, known as “girmitiyas”, were indentured labourers who migrated from India starting in 1845.
- The community has preserved strong cultural and emotional ties with India over generations.
Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI):
- Introduced by amending the Citizenship Act, 1955, the OCI scheme was formally launched at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (2006) in Hyderabad.
- It offers limited rights and privileges to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who are citizens of other countries but seek to maintain a connection with India.