About the Book:
Eight percent of global Indian Diaspora is located in Africa. It is spread across all regions of Africa-Anglophone, Francophone, Lusophone, Arab Africa and Oceania. People of Indian Origin (PIO) went from different parts of India - Gujarat, Southern India, Bihar, Utter Pradesh and Punjab. They migrated in different capacities- as free passengers, traders, indentured workers, construction workers, professionals and businessmen. But most of them were indentured and construction workers who went during colonial period. They played an important role and made a significant contribution to their new homes in all walks of life. They were an important consideration during Indian freedom struggle, especially in Indian National Congress.
M.K.Gandhi was turned into a Mahatma and became an apostle of non-violence and peace by his involvement with PIOs in South Africa. In post - decolonisation phase PIOs in Africa had mixed experiences of assimilation and integration. While in some countries as in Mauritius they remained all through in power while in some countries as in Uganda they suffered humiliating expulsion. They still have challenges of integration in most part of Africa. The book is an attempt to capture their history, struggle, contribution, challenges, and their place in Indian Diaspora policy.
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