Leaders from various sectors convened at the Indiaspora Forum 2026 in Bengaluru, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in leveraging the Indian diaspora’s potential for India’s growth and global progress.
The Indiaspora Forum 2026, held in Bengaluru, brought together influential figures from business, philanthropy, science, policy, and the arts to discuss the expanding role of the Indian diaspora in shaping India’s future and contributing to global progress. The event underscored themes of collaboration, innovation, inclusive growth, and a shared commitment to philanthropy among members of the diaspora.
Key Insights from Business Leaders
Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director of Bajaj Finserv Limited, highlighted the significant growth potential of India over the next two decades. “India has the potential to grow at around 8 percent annually and transition its 1.5 billion people from a low-income to a middle- and high-income economy,” he stated. Bajaj pointed to the vital role of the diaspora in supporting this growth through financial services, innovation, and investment, emphasizing that the infrastructure developed over the last 15 years has laid a strong foundation for future economic expansion.
Bajaj elaborated on the role of financial services in this transformation, noting, “As a financial services provider, we support this through lending, insurance, and investment, and we continue to see significant opportunities ahead.” His remarks reflect a broader optimism about India’s economic trajectory and the diaspora’s involvement.
The Value of Networking and Learning
Vijay Amritraj, a former tennis player and founder of the VAF-Vijay Amritraj Foundation, characterized the forum as an energizing platform for learning and exchange. “Indiaspora 2026 has been quite special here in Bengaluru,” he remarked, applauding the efforts of the organizing team in bringing together a diverse community. Amritraj emphasized the educational value of informal networking and the importance of sharing experiences among the Indian diaspora, stating, “I find that very energizing.”
Global Connections and Philanthropy
Lord Karan Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer, described the forum as a significant success, noting the extensive participation of members from the 35 million-strong Indian diaspora. He expressed appreciation for the diverse range of sessions covering topics from philanthropy and technology to space exploration. “The friendships formed, the business conducted, and the connections built between India and other countries are truly significant,” Bilimoria said, underlining the forum’s role in strengthening ties between the diaspora and India.
Educationist Latha Rajinikanth spoke about the necessity of bringing successful individuals together to focus on global contributions. She stated, “I think it’s very important for people across the globe, achievers who have made it in their lives, to come together so that we can focus on what we can do for the rest of the world.” Rajinikanth also advocated for increased local engagement and support of grassroots initiatives.
A Platform for Purpose and Collaboration
Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, emphasized the role of Indiaspora as a global movement for the diaspora to reconnect with India and build collaborative efforts. “I think Indiaspora has become a very important global movement for the diaspora to find its purpose,” she noted, highlighting the progress made over the past decade.
Radhika Bharat Ram, Joint Vice Chairperson of The Shri Ram Schools, focused on cross-sector collaboration, particularly in healthcare, education, and philanthropy. She pointed out the essential role of women in leadership positions, stating, “We need to see more people investing in the leadership of young women and ensuring they are at the tables where decisions are made about their future.” Ram expressed her excitement about the forum’s initiatives in supporting innovation and investment in India’s growth.
Strategic Importance of Space and Technology
S. Somanath, the former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization, discussed the strategic and commercial significance of India’s emerging space ecosystem. He emphasized the need for expanding capabilities in communication, navigation, and earth observation, stating, “India must have a global reach while also ensuring that it makes business sense.” Somanath highlighted ongoing discussions about the importance of developing India’s own satellite capabilities to remain competitive in the global market.
Building Global Partnerships
Sethuraman Panchanathan, University Professor of Technology and Innovation at Arizona State University, underscored the potential of global partnerships and the collective impact of diaspora networks. He remarked, “This is a very important moment for both India and the world,” stressing the importance of leveraging the diaspora’s success for broader societal contributions.
The Role of Culinary Arts in Social Impact
Chef K. N. Vinod, an esteemed Indian culinary expert, reflected on the forum’s focus on social impact. He noted the significance of discussions around empowerment and charity, emphasizing that true charity is about the evolution of the receiver rather than the redemption of the giver. “It was inspiring to see global leaders aligned with this mission of empowerment,” he concluded.
The Indiaspora Forum 2026 served as a pivotal gathering for leaders from around the world, emphasizing the necessity for collaboration and innovation among the Indian diaspora to foster growth and development both in India and globally.
