The theme for 2017 — “Refined Engagement with Indian Diaspora” — says it all. This has become further accentuated due to the high remittances that Indian diaspora contribute. India’s non-alignment posture also precluded it from taking any sides in conflict zones. Because assuring the Indian diaspora of help in all circumstances could become a double-edged sword. Worse still, there is a need for a strategic diaspora evacuation policy from conflict zones in a world where crises materialise without warnings and give very little reaction time for governments.

Source: The Hindu January 09, 2017 11:05 UTC