Instruments of engagement : assessing India’s PIO and OCI schemes

Abstract

The paper suggests that the PIO and OCI card schemes, barring some of the implementation constraints, appear to be fulfilling the expectations of overseas Indians by complying with the criterion for beneficial entitlements as laid down for dual citizenship. The two schemes though mainly viewed through the “mobility” lens, have also played a substantive role in strengthening India’s bond with its overseas community. The paper also presents few recommendations for the design of a single facility with the possible merger of the two schemes.