The Brain Drain

It is wonderful to read (Murali Balaji, "India Down Under," May 2007) that most Indians achieve great financial and personal success wherever they go, including in New Zealand. And they do this without completely letting go of their heritage.

The first wave of immigrants to this small, isolated country came as indentured servants and laborers in the 1800s, but the Indians settled there now are a prosperous and fast growing ethnic group. It is great to read that the first generation Indian-Kiwis are reaping the benefits of their parent's hard work, sacrifices and dignity. The New Zealand-born Anand Satyanand appointed as the Governor-General by Queen Elizabeth II, is a good example.

Now that Indians are well-accepted in New Zealand, more of them, including white-collar professionals, are migrating to this booming, laid-back, country primarily because of better opportunities than back home. All of this makes one wonder now that India's economy is growing faster than ever, does it mean fewer Indians will leave home to succeed elsewhere? Will India try to hold on to its valuable resources?

Letter Published in Little India, June 2007