India’s diaspora policy: evidence of soft power diplomacy under Modi

Despite increasing recognition of the importance of Indian diaspora in international politics, there has not been any serious attempt to incorporate this phenomenon into India’s foreign policy formulation process until recently. This article asserts through a theoretical paradigm with the application of international relations theories of constructivism and liberalism to support the argument that the unique status of diaspora – outside the state but inside the people – are aptly suited to manoeuvre international image and thus triggers influence on foreign policy decision making in India. In contrast to the established norms, this article claims that diasporas just not influence India’s foreign policy it does shape the domestic policies as well. It further examines how diaspora and foreign policy can be strengthenedfor political lobbying and economic development in India.