| Issue - 2025 | Page No - 24 |
| DIGITAL ARCH: INDIA’S ENGAGEMENT WITH ITS SOUTHEAST ASIAN DIASPORA THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA | |
| Author's Name : Ayushi Kesharwani* | |
| Abstract : | |
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India's diaspora, comprising over 32 million people, is a significant cultural, economic, and political asset for its home countries. Social media has transformed traditional diplomacy by allowing states to directly engage with diasporas, creating a "digital bridge" between them. The diaspora serves as a strategic partner in advancing India's foreign policy objectives under its Act East Policy. The Indian government has used social media to engage its diaspora through campaigns like #DigitalIndia, virtual town halls, and digital celebrations of India's 75th year of independence. This human-centric approach to digital diplomacy offers valuable lessons for India and the world in the digital age.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian embassies organized virtual celebrations, Q&A sessions, and webinars to engage with diaspora members. However, challenges include homogenizing diaspora narratives and engaging older generations and rural communities. Governments and NGOs in Southeast Asia are working on digital infrastructure, but progress is slow.
India's digital diplomacy has blended tradition with technology to foster a global community united by heritage and identity. Initiatives like Vande Bharat Mission and virtual Pravasi Bharatiya Divas demonstrate the government's responsiveness and ability to connect across borders.
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