Latest news with #OverseasCitizenofIndia
Indian Express
16-07-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Let citizenship to daughter of OCI cardholders be one-off, don't open floodgates: Govt to HC
After a single-judge bench of the Delhi High Court directed the Centre to grant Indian citizenship to a 'stateless' 17-year-old girl born in India to a couple of Indian-origin holding US citizenship, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has challenged the HC's 'views' on 'illegal immigrant' and 'person of Indian-origin'. The MHA, represented by government pleader Abhigyan Siddhant, urged the division bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela on Monday to clarify that the single-judge's judgment of May 15, 2024 should be considered as an individual case and not a precedent, meaning it may not be used for relief in other cases. The MHA apprehends that the single judge's observation on the two aspects 'may open floodgates for many other illegal migrants in seeking Indian citizenship' and 'would have a cascading effect and would dilute the spirit of the Citizenship Act, 1955.' The 2024 ruling was in the case of Rachita Francis Xavier, born in 2006 in Nidamanuru, Andhra Pradesh, to parents who were earlier Indian citizens and obtained US citizenship in 2001 and 2005. In 2019, when Rachita applied for a passport to study abroad, her request was denied on the ground that she cannot be recognised as a citizen of India, effectively leaving her with no recognition of citizenship, either in India or the US. She then challenged the action before the Delhi HC. Relying on the citizenship laws and provisions, the MHA had told the HC that she could not be considered as a 'person of Indian origin' and that she would in fact be considered an 'illegal migrant' under Section 2 (1) (b) of the Citizenship Act because she did not have any valid travel document, or a visa under which she could stay in India. Her parents were residing in India and holding Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card at the time of her birth and Rachita had lived all her life in India by then. In its verdict on May 15, 2024, the single-judge bench, noting Rachita's 'unique' position, said she would not qualify as an 'illegal migrant', and would qualify as a 'person of Indian origin'. It directed that she be granted Indian citizenship. It observed that Rachita 'has effectively been rendered stateless, thereby facing significant limitations on her fundamental rights as also universal human rights in the absence of citizenship and political belonging.' Rachita was granted citizenship on July 31, 2024. The MHA, in an appeal moved against the single judge's order, while not challenging the direction for the grant of citizenship, has challenged the judge's declaration that Rachita is not an 'illegal migrant' and is to be considered as a 'person of Indian origin'. It has said the declaration is in contravention to the laws. The MHA has submitted that the May 2024 order errs in observing that the definition of 'illegal migrant' will not apply to Rachita solely on the fact that she was born in India and has never gone out of India. Opposing this deduction by the single judge, the MHA has countered that Section 2 (1) (b) of the Citizenship Act, 1955, clearly defines 'illegal migrant' which would include a child born in India and devoid of any valid travel documents. It has pressed for 'harmonious' reading of the Citizenship Act with the Foreigners Act, 1946 which cover provisions for all types of foreigners including children born in India to foreigners. The MHA has highlighted that the law already provides for visa services to children born to foreigners in India within 90 days of their birth. The MHA has stressed that the single judge also erred in declaring Rachita as a 'person of Indian origin' solely on the basis of the fact that her mother was born in independent India. Relying on section 5 of the Act, the MHA has submitted that a person shall be deemed to be of Indian origin if the person, or either of the parents, was born in undivided India or in such other territory which became part of India after August 15, 1947 (such as Sikkim), with 'undivided India' meaning India as defined in the Government of India Act, 1935. 'Any person born in India thereafter (after August 15, 1947) would, subject to fulfilment of statutory/constitutional requirements, be a citizen of India by birth and descendants of such person are not covered under definition of Indian Origin. Any other interpretation would lead to a situation where even a person born in Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc., after independence, i.e., after 15.08.1947, would be person of Indian Origin, which could not have been the intention of the law makers; and if such interpretation is accepted, it would lead to disastrous consequences,' the MHA has submitted. The HC has now kept the matter for further consideration on October 15.
Hindustan Times
11-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Indian-origin couple wonders if $5.5 million is enough to retire in India; Netizens chip in
With uncertainty looming over the tech sector in the United States and socio-political shifts altering long-term planning for many immigrants, a young Indian couple, now in their mid-30s and living in the US for over 15 years, are seriously considering moving back to India for good. However, they are not just seeking a geographical change. The couple, parents to a young child, want to retire early and take a break from the rat race and explore life at a slower pace. They may work again someday, but on their own terms, without letting their jobs take over their lives, according to their post on Reddit. An Indian-origin couple wondered on Reddit if $5.5 million was a good amount for a retirement corpus in the country.(Representative Image: Pixabay) The big question before them: how much money is enough to retire early in India and raise a child comfortably? An Indian-origin couple's post on Reddit goes viral A Reddit user, going by the username Secure Salt, wrote, 'We are in our mid-30s and we have one small kid. We have been living in the US for about 15 years.' They added that with everything happening in theUS, they are 'contemplating moving back to India'. 'We will probably take a break for some time and will find work later depending on our interests but we do not want to let it take over our lives. So, whats a good number to retire early in India and live a comfortable life while raising a child,' the Reddit user asked. The user disclosed that their net worth is approximately $5.5 million, including a $3.6 million investment portfolio and $1.9 million in property. The user and their partner are US citizens, they revealed, who hold Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status which gives them flexibility to reside and work in either nation. Although the couple has a large corpus, they are not rushing into the relocation as of yet. Their primary concern is not status or salary, but how to make life more meaningful for themselves and their child. Also read: Moo Deng turns 1: Inside viral baby pygmy hippo's first birthday celebrations Redditors share their thoughts A Redditor, who seemingly is living out of India and is also contemplating a return, said that $3 million was enough to survive in any Indian city without working for a few years, except for Delhi or Mumbai. 'It depends on your lifestyle,' they concluded. Another said there were several factors in play including the place of their residence and the lifestyle they have. The user commented that if they live in a tier two, developed city, the expenses would not exceed 75,000 INR per month and education expenses would come to 30-35,000 per month. 'As a net, 2 lakhs per month would be more than sufficient if you really want a standard life,' they noted. A third user commented that their expectation was anywhere between ₹8 crore to 12 crore, depending on their retirement age. Also read: Who is Devyn Smith? 23-year-old survives deadly Texas flood that killed most of her family A fourth user gave a breakdown of expenses and said if one wanted to live in a city like Mumbai and areas as posh as Bandra, one would need a minimum of ₹2 lakh per month, excluding rent, which is in lakhs for a two or three-BHK flat in a gated community. 'If you buy a flat 2-4CR but if you sell it or rent it in 10yrs you will make good profit. Or TAKE MY ADVICE, buy 3-4 flats in cash. You stay in 1 flat and rent other 2-3 flats. Depending on what city you in, most probably you and your kid will not have to work again if you buy correct flat and rent correctly. You CAN LIVE OFF THE RENT,' the user said. One user seemed to be discouraging the user from moving to India. They noted, 'You will have to deal with the traffic, dust, pollution, corruption, law & order issues, heat and water shortages.' While the original poster agreed, they said at least they would not worry about losing their visa status and take a breather, which they cannot do in the US. 'Trust me. Coming back to India was my worst nightmare a few years ago and now when I take a hard look I can see how ridiculous the thought was,' the Redditor added.
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
NRI couple, with a net worth of Rs 42 crore, asks how much money is needed to 'retire' in India. Netizens react: 'There is no end...'
Amidst the constant online glorification of high-stress careers, 18-hour workdays, and the never-ending pursuit of success, a grounded and sincere post by a tech-savvy couple in their mid-thirties has struck a chord with many. Their reflections on quality of life and the true meaning of financial freedom are inspiring a wave of introspection among fellow professionals. This couple, who have spent nearly a decade and a half in the United States, are seriously considering a return to India—not for career advancement or job relocation, but to redefine the way they live. Unlike the usual stories of NRIs returning to juggle new roles or businesses, their intention is rooted in simplicity and intentional living. Writing anonymously on the "Return to India" subreddit, they shared that they are in their mid-30s, raising a young child, and have called the U.S. home for about 15 years. Their life has revolved around work in the American tech ecosystem, where they've built not just careers but also considerable financial stability. Now, however, they find themselves drawn toward a slower, more deliberate life—one that prioritizes family, balance, and time over professional hustle. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: New Container Houses (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo They disclosed a net worth of approximately $5.5 million, including a $3.6 million investment portfolio and $1.9 million in property. Both are U.S. citizens holding Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, giving them the flexibility to live and work in either country. Despite their financial cushion, they aren't rushing the decision. They admit that moving back is still a distant possibility, but one they're examining seriously. Rather than diving headfirst into new jobs upon relocating, they plan to take a breather, reflect, and only pursue work that aligns with their passions. Their primary concern isn't status or salary, but how to make life more meaningful for themselves and their child. The post ended with a thoughtful question: what financial figure is enough to step away from full-time work in India and live comfortably while raising a child? This candid reflection sparked a lively conversation among users. Some suggested using a simple formula—33 times one's annual spending invested in reliable assets—to calculate the right corpus for early retirement. Others proposed adjusting U.S. annual expenses by a factor of 25 to estimate what one might need to maintain a similar lifestyle in India, accounting for differences in purchasing power. A few weighed in with location-specific advice. One commenter who had recently spent time in Mumbai's upscale Bandra area mentioned that a monthly budget of at least ₹2 lakh, not including rent, would be necessary to live well. Renting a spacious apartment alone could cost upwards of ₹1.25 lakh per month. They added that younger children adapt more easily to the move, but older ones might struggle. The commenter suggested that it takes six months to a year to truly adjust back to Indian life—and warned that relatives and acquaintances may frequently seek financial help. Another user advised leveraging real estate: purchasing three or four properties outright, living in one, and generating passive income from the others. If chosen wisely, this strategy could potentially eliminate the need for any future employment altogether. Another quipped, "There is no end. No amount of money will be enough. It's always less..." This couple's story stands out for its emotional honesty. It's not about escaping the rat race with millions in the bank but about reassessing values, making conscious choices, and understanding that true wealth lies in time, peace, and presence.
Economic Times
05-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
India to gift 2000 laptops to school students in Trinidad and Tobago, extends OCI Card facility up to 6th generation: MEA
AP India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets people alongside Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, left, dressed in traditional Indian, at Piarco International Airport in Piarco, Trinidad and Tobago, Thursday, July 3, 2025. Port of Spain [Trinidad and Tobago], July 5 (ANI): During his visit to Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a number of key announcements to boost ties between both nations, including gifting of 2000 laptops to school students and extension of the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards facility up to 6th generation of Indian diaspora members Addressing a MEA press briefing, Secretary (South) Neena Malhotra listed the announcements, "..Firstly, extension of OCI Card facility up to 6th generation of Indian diaspora members in this country. As of now, this facility is available up to the 4th generation... This announcement was very enthusiastically received by the Indian diaspora, which constitutes almost 40 to 45% of the population of this country. In the education sector, we have announced the gifting of 2000 laptops to school students in Trinidad & Tobago. India also announced the holding of an artificial limb fitment camp in Trinidad and Tobago, she said."As part of India's humanity campaign, India also announced the holding of an artificial limb fitment camp in T&T for 50 days for 800 people. There were two more announcements in the healthcare sector. One was a gift of 20 Hemodialysis units and two sea ambulances to T&T to assist in the provision of health care. We have announced specialised Medical treatment of 10 dignitaries of Trinidad & Tobago at accredited Indian hospitals for an amount of Rs one crore per annum." She added. PM Modi announced the solarisation of the headquarters of T&T's Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs by providing rooftop photovoltaic solar panels. Enhancing the cultural ties between both nations, PM Modi announced the celebration of Geeta Mahotsav at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation in Port of Spain, coinciding with the Geeta Mahotsav celebrations in will also train 10 pundits from Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean region in India. "At the request of the Trinidad & Tobago Government, we have agreed to the training of 10 pundits of T&T and the Caribbean region in India," Malhotra said. Neen Malhotra also informed about the six Memorandum of Understanding signed between two countries. "PM Modi held extensive discussions with the leadership of Trinidad & Tobago covering the entire gamut of the bilateral relationship. A total of six MoUs or agreements have been signed between the two countries."The six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed following delegation-level talks between PM Modi and his Trinidad and Tobago counterpart Kamla Persad-Bissessar in Port of Spain on MoUs include an agreement on the Indian Pharmacopoeia, which aims to provide improved access to Indian pharmaceutical products in the Trinidad and Tobago market, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated in a strengthen the development corporation partnership between the two countries, an agreement was signed for an Indian grant to implement Quick Impact Projects (QIP).Agreements were also signed to strengthen cooperation in sports, diplomatic training and the re-establishment of two ICCR Chairs of Hindi and Indian Studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Trinidad and MoU on the Programme of Cultural Exchanges for the period 2025-2028 was also concluding his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, PM Modi embarked on his visit to Argentina for the 3rd leg of his five-nation tour.
United News of India
04-07-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
Modi announces OCI cards for 6th generation of Indian diaspora in T&T
Port of Spain/New Delhi, July 4 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards will be issued to citizens of Indian origin in Trinidad and Tobago, extending up to the sixth generation. This move will allow them to live and work in India without restrictions. PM Modi lauded the Indian diaspora for their resilience, cultural richness, and significant contributions to Trinidad & Tobago. He also acknowledged the community's continued efforts to preserve Indian cultural traditions. To further strengthen these bonds, Prime Minister announced that OCI cards would now be issued to the 6th generation of the people of Indian origin people of Trinidad & Tobago. This special gesture was greeted with loud applause. Prime Minister also underscored that the Government of India would be supporting several initiatives to nurture the 'Girmitiya' legacy. Girmitiya was the name given those Indians who left the country in the middle and 19th century to serve as labour in the then British colonies "Our decision on the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago being issued OCI cards will strengthen their connection to India and preserve our shared heritage for future generations," PM Modi said. Addressing the Indian community in Port of Spain during his first visit to the Caribbean country as Prime Minister, PM Modi underlined the deep emotional and cultural ties that bind India with its diaspora. "Today, I'm happy to announce that the OCI cards will be given to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago. We aren't just connected by blood or surname. You are connected by belonging. India welcomes, and India embraces you!" PM Modi said. PM Modi called upon the people of Indian origin to visit their ancestral land and deepen their connection and roots with India and not just be connected virtually via social media. "I encourage all of you to visit India more in person, and not just virtually via social media. Visit the villages of your ancestors. Walk the soil they walked on. Bring your children and neighbours. Bring anyone who enjoys 'Chai' and a good story. We will welcome all of you with open arms, warm hearts and Jalebi," he said. PM Modi also congratulated Trinidad and Tobago for becoming the first country in the region to adopt India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system. "I congratulate Trinidad and Tobago for being the first country in the region to adopt UPI. Now, sending money will be as easy as sending a Good Morning text message. I promise it will be faster than the bowling of the West Indies," he said. Highlighting India's rapid growth, PM Modi said the country has emerged as the fastest-growing major economy and has successfully lifted millions out of poverty. "India is the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Soon, we will be among the top three economies of the world. The fruits of India's growth and progress are reaching the most needy. India has proved that we can defeat poverty by empowering the poor... The World Bank has noted that India has lifted over 250 million people above extreme poverty in the last decade. India's growth is being powered by our innovative and energetic youth," he said. Prime Minister outlined India's rapid development and transformation in the fields of infrastructure, digital technologies, manufacturing, green pathways, space, innovation and start-ups. He highlighted that in the last one-decade India has made significant strides in promoting inclusive growth with over 250 million people lifted out of extreme poverty. Highlighting various aspects of India's growth story, he noted that the country would soon be among the top three economies in the world. Prime Minister stressed, "National Missions on AI, Semiconductor and Quantum Computing were becoming new engines of the country's growth. Underlining the success of UPI based digital payments in India, he expressed optimism that its adoption in Trinidad & Tobago would be equally encouraging. Reflecting on India's age-old philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam , meaning the world is one family, vividly demonstrated during the Covid pandemic, he offered continued support to T&T in its pursuit of progress and nation making." The grand event was attended by over 4000 people and featured a captivating cultural programme performed by the artistes from the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation and other organizations. UNI AAB RKM
