NRIs voice support for BJP, PM Modi

India Post News Service

SAN FRANCISCO: NRIs from Silicon Valley under the leadership of Chandru Bhambhra, Co-ordinator, Northern California zone, Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), visited iconic spots of San Francisco March 17 to show support to BJP and Prime Minister Naendra Modi in the upcoming general elections in India.IMG 20190317 WA0078 I

US-based BJP supporters said they back Modi because they believe he is ushering in policies that will turn India, already the world’s fastest-growing large economy, into a powerhouse. Many cannot travel home to vote, so ardent BJP backers are channelling their energy into phone campaigns and a blitz of social media messages to people in India.

IMG 20190317 WA0061Non-resident Indians or NRIs have always been integral to the image and power of India abroad. Their traditional role has been seen as ambassadors to represent India’s culture and heritage, tell the world about India and explain the news from back home. As Indians abroad have integrated into the Western society, they have become more politically connected and powerful. They have worked with their governments to form trade delegations and advise them on investment opportunities in India.

Although Modi remains popular and is largely expected to win another five-year term, the 2019 elections will likely be tougher. But there is no indication that the enthusiasm of Modi’s overseas supporters has waned.