India launches global 'brain gain' push as 800+ leaders back Viksit Bharat vision
New Delhi, January 16
Marking Makar Sankranti with a message of renewal and national ambition, the Indian diaspora-driven initiative BIHAAN - For the Rising Bharat formally rolled out its global campaign at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre in the capital.
The organisation, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's agenda for Viksit Bharat @ 2047, announced an international movement aimed at converting India's long-lamented "brain drain" into a coordinated "brain gain."
Positioning itself as a platform that will link diaspora expertise with India's national priorities, BIHAAN declared that its newest programme will serve as a technological and strategic bridge connecting global Indian professionals, innovators, and investors with sectors crucial to India's growth.
With outreach already established in 53 countries, the group claims it is preparing the groundwork to channel intellectual and financial capital towards India's journey to becoming a USD 5 trillion economy.
Prime Minister Modi's recent appeal to overseas Indians, calling them "Rashtradoots" and "Bharat's shining signatures abroad," resonated throughout the event.
Leaders emphasised that the diaspora, which contributed to India's freedom struggle, now has a defining role in shaping a developed India during the Amrit Kaal.
Tuhin Sinha, BJP national spokesperson and BIHAAN's mentor, underscored that the Prime Minister's developmental resolve would gain momentum as overseas Indians step into more active nation-building roles.
The event drew more than 800 prominent figures, including Union ministers, MPs, MLAs, senior bureaucrats, business leaders and representatives from across the world, many of whom attended in person or shared messages of support.
BIHAAN Chairperson Laxmi Kumari described the initiative as a "new dawn for India's global rise," stressing that the diaspora must evolve from sympathetic observers to meaningful contributors.
Co-chairperson Prashant Kumar, who is currently contesting local elections in the UK, said over 5,000 NRIs and PIOs had already pledged participation.
Senior leaders, including BL Santhosh, CP Thakur, Vijay Kumar Sinha, Samrat Choudhary, and others, extended blessings, while industry voices highlighted the need for diaspora-led investment and innovation.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Hopeful but cautious. We've heard similar promises before. The real test is on the ground - will there be a streamlined process for returning professionals? The bureaucracy and red tape can be a nightmare. Hope BIHAAN focuses on practical, actionable steps.
Connecting global Indian talent with local needs is brilliant. Imagine Silicon Valley engineers helping our startups, or doctors from the UK/NHS advising on public health. This isn't just about money; it's about knowledge transfer. Jai Hind!
As an NRI, this resonates. Many of us want to contribute but don't know how. A structured platform that identifies real projects in healthcare, education, or clean energy where we can volunteer or invest would be amazing. Count me in!
The term 'Rashtradoot' is perfect. We are ambassadors. But contribution should go beyond just cheering from abroad. It's time to roll up our sleeves. Hope this movement creates tangible mentorship programs in colleges and funding for rural innovators.
A good vision, but let's not forget the talent we have right here. Brain gain shouldn't mean ignoring homegrown scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. The platform must facilitate collaboration, not create a perception that only foreign experience counts.
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