Jaishankar Highlights Indian Diaspora's Heritage in Trinidad and Tobago
Strengthening Ties with the Indian Diaspora
Jaishankar addresses the Indian diaspora of Trinidad and Tobago at a community event, on Saturday. (Photo:PTI)
Port of Spain, May 10: S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, announced that a new archival cooperation agreement between India and Trinidad and Tobago aims to assist members of the Indian diaspora in tracing their ancestral roots and reconnecting with their families.
Speaking at a gathering on the historic Nelson Island, Jaishankar reflected on the arrival of the first Indian indentured laborers to Trinidad and Tobago 180 years ago, honoring their "fortitude, determination, and resolve" in establishing new lives despite challenges.
He emphasized that these immigrants brought their traditions, faith, and lifestyle, making it essential to preserve this history as a heritage site.
Jaishankar mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi places significant importance on creating a database for the Girmitya community and researching its legacy.
He referred to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the National Archives of India and Trinidad and Tobago, expressing hope that this agreement would aid many individuals in the Caribbean nation in "tracing their ancestral roots and reconnecting with their families in India."
Additionally, he noted an increase in applications for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards at the Indian High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago, following Modi's announcement to extend OCI eligibility to the sixth generation during his visit.
"The number of OCI applications received by the High Commission is on the rise, and we aim to assist those who may lack the necessary documentation," the minister stated.
He reiterated New Delhi's commitment to preserving the Girmitya community's legacy, revealing plans to establish a dedicated Girmitya Studies Centre as directed by Modi.
The term Girmitya refers to Indian indentured laborers who were transported by the British to various colonies, including Fiji, South Africa, Mauritius, and the Caribbean, between the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Jaishankar also participated in launching a Quick Impact Project aimed at upgrading cultural heritage facilities at Nelson Island, funded by India. This project includes a memorial monument, a digital hub for historical data from national archives, and a digital audio-visual experience.
According to the Indian High Commission's website, around 143,000 indentured workers from the Indian subcontinent migrated to Trinidad between 1845 and 1917, with most originating from northern India and Bihar.
The descendants of these indentured workers, now in their fifth or sixth generation, represent nearly 40-45 percent of Trinidad's total population of 1.36 million (as of 2024), playing a vital role in the country's economic, political, and social landscape.
Jaishankar concluded his visit to Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday, marking the end of his three-nation tour that included Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.