The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) hosted its November webinar on November 8, focusing on how professionals of Indian heritage are driving innovation and shaping technological progress worldwide.

The session, themed “Shaping the Technologies for the Future – Role of the Diaspora,” featured distinguished academics and industry leaders who discussed the far-reaching impact of the Indian diaspora on global technology.

Among the key attendees was Prof. N. P. Padhy, Director of MNIT Jaipur, who served as the guest of honor. The discussion was steered by Prof. Prasad K. D. V. Yarlagadda from Australia.

GOPIO International President Prakash Shah opened the forum by emphasizing the vital role of STEM fields — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics — in India’s global migration story. He noted that these disciplines have been instrumental in shaping the presence of Indian professionals in Western nations over the past six decades.

He remarked, “What was once termed a ‘brain drain’ has, in fact, powered innovation across Silicon Valleys around the world.” He also referenced the popular saying, “Better brain drain than brain in the drain,” which had once silenced critics of Indian talent migration.

Dr. Thomas Abraham, the Founder and Chairman of GOPIO, traced the organization’s journey since its inception in 1989 and spoke about its mission to link Indian-origin professionals globally with their homeland.

“For over three decades, GOPIO has worked to empower the Indian diaspora, integrate them into public life, and address community concerns,” Dr. Abraham said. “We are now extending this focus toward technology and innovation — connecting diaspora scientists, technologists, and entrepreneurs with counterparts in India.”

He added that GOPIO aims to foster cooperation in areas such as AI, advanced computing, nanotechnology, clean energy, and critical minerals. “We plan to identify and network global experts to help strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem,” he explained.

Sunil Vuppala, Chair of the GOPIO Webinar Series, welcomed participants and noted that each monthly session serves to bridge India’s growth journey with the expertise of its global diaspora.

“Every month, we bring together voices from across continents — individuals who are redefining what it means to be Indian in the world of technology and innovation,” he said.

The panel featured several eminent speakers, including Dr. Anupam Shukla (Director, SVNIT Surat), Dr. Himanshu Jain (Lehigh University), Dr. D. R. Nagaraj (Columbia University), Bhavini Patel (entrepreneur and policy leader), Melissa Frakman (Founder, EMVC), Krishanu Acharya (CEO, Suhora Technologies), and Dr. Durga Das (CEO, AiroWater).

Vuppala praised the panel for combining academic excellence with entrepreneurial vision, adding, “This blend of intellect and innovation is what defines the Indian diaspora — a spirit of collaboration and contribution.”

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening partnerships between Indian innovators abroad and those within India. GOPIO’s leadership reaffirmed plans to create specialized technology councils, form sector-based expert networks, and align diaspora innovation efforts with India’s national priorities.

Closing the event, Dr. Abraham stated, “From artificial intelligence to space exploration and sustainable energy, the Indian diaspora continues to influence the world’s technological direction. GOPIO remains dedicated to serving as that vital link.”