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First Caribbean nation to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI)

05 Jul 2025 GS 2 International Relations
First Caribbean nation to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Click to view full image

Context : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, addressed a gathering of the Indian diaspora in Port of Spain, celebrating their contributions and connections with India.

Key Highlights:

  • Indian Diaspora as National Pride:

    • Modi called the 35 million-strong Indian diaspora a source of “pride” and “Rashtradoots” (ambassadors of India’s values and culture).

    • Emphasised their role in promoting India's heritage globally.

  • Sixth Generation Gets OCI Cards:

    • Major announcement: Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cards will now be extended to sixth-generation Indian-origin citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

    • Marks the first such initiative toward this Caribbean nation, which will celebrate 180 years of Girmitiya arrival in 2025.

  • Strengthening Girmitiya Bonds:

    • India is working to map the past and strengthen cultural and ancestral ties with the Girmitiya community (descendants of indentured Indian labourers sent during colonial rule).

    • A comprehensive database of Girmitiya communities is being developed:

      • Mapping ancestral Indian villages.

      • Documenting settlement patterns abroad.

      • Preserving legacy and organising World Girmitiya Conferences.

  • Cultural & Religious Links:

    • Highlighted the diaspora’s connection to Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, especially among Bhojpuri-speaking communities.

    • Mentioned the diaspora’s spiritual ties to India, referencing the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.

  • UPI System Adoption:

    • Congratulated Trinidad and Tobago for becoming the first Caribbean nation to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) — a step towards enhancing financial connectivity between India and its diaspora.

PM Modi's outreach reaffirmed India’s commitment to embracing its diaspora, particularly the Girmitiya descendants, and enhancing cultural, financial, and emotional bonds. The extension of OCI eligibility to sixth-generation Indians in Trinidad and Tobago is a landmark move ahead of the 180th Girmitiya arrival anniversary.



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