Indian Expat Society: The Netherlands

History

The Netherlands India Chamber of Commerce & Trade is a non-commercial, voluntary association of business concerns and professionals with an interest in business and economic relations between India and The Netherlands. The NICCT came into being in 2003 as a result of the merger between the India Trade Council and the Indo Dutch Chamber of Commerce, both of which had functioned in The Netherlands for many years and had similar objectives & activities.

The membership of the NICCT is growing rapidly. Currently more than 100 Dutch companies including major banks, insurance companies, IT related companies and multinationals are members of the NICCT and are participating actively in its activities.

Objectives

The primary objective of the NICCT is to promote business and economic relations between India and The Netherlands to the mutual benefit of both countries. The economies of both countries are mutually complementary in many ways and there is a significant scope for expansions of trade and business relations.

Knowledge and understanding of both countries' business environments is a prerequisite for expanding business relationships between them. The NICCT endeavours to play a significant role in expanding this knowledge and creating a favourable climate for further improvement of business relations between these two countries.

To achieve these objectives, the NICCT serves as a focal point for contacts and information concerning Indo-Dutch trade and business relations, whereby it aims to represent, promote, and protect the common interest of its members. The NICCT also strives towards progressive liberalisation, reduction, and eventual elimination of tariffs & restrictions on trade between both countries.

As such, the NICCT provides an active platform, initiating many opportunities for networking on economic relations between India & the Netherlands.

Activities

The NICCT is a very dynamic bi-national chamber of commerce in The Netherlands. It organizes many kinds of activities to promote business and economic relations between India and The Netherlands. Its activities include match making trade missions to India, receiving trade delegations from India, seminars and net working receptions.

On February 6-7, 2007, the NICCT in cooperation with the Foundation for Critical Choices for India and the Netherlands Water Partnership (NWP) organized a seminar on "Water Management in India and the Role of Dutch Technology. This has resulted in the creation of India Netherlands Water Platform to stimulate cooperation between India and The Netherlands in the development of India's water resources.

Since its inception in 2003, the NICCT has organized many pioneering activities:

• In the first year of its existence the NICCT highlighted the visa problems for Indian knowledge workers and businessmen coming to the Netherlands by bringing together on a common platform all the stakeholders for an open discussion. That has contributed to the easing of visa problems for Indian knowledge workers.
• In same year 2003, the NICCT organized first major seminar in The Netherlands on ICT related services from India. Since then there is an increasing recognition in The Netherlands about India's potential in this important field and opportunities for Dutch business concerns.
• In 2004 the NICCT organized the first privately funded Match Making Trade Mission to India. This Mission has contributed to the establishment of new Dutch business concerns/joint ventures in India. It led to the contacts which have contributed to the IIFA Film Awards being held in Amsterdam in June 2005. It has also encouraged other Dutch organizations to send similar trade missions to India.
• In 2006, the NICCT joined hands with the ING Banking & Insurance Group and KPMG, in organizing a major seminar on 'Investing in India Opportunities & Challenges'. This seminar has stimulated further Dutch interest in doing business with India.
• In January 2007, the NICCT has initiated a new series of annual lectures on "Prospects for Growing Indian Economy & Its Relevance for Europe". The first lecture under this series was given by the Chief Economist of the ING Banking and Insurance Group, Mr. Mark Cliffe.
• On the 25th of June 2007 the NICCT and TCS will organize a seminar on "Collaborative Innovations: New Generation Cooperation between India & The Netherlands". It is expected that this seminar will prove to be as trail blazing as the other activities mentioned above.
  

NICCT Secretariat

Mr Gerwin de Boer (Contact Manager)
148 Juliana van Stolberglaan
2595 CL The Hague
P.O. Box 10
2501 CA The Hague

E-mail: nicct@nicct.nl
Website: www.nicct.nl
Tel: +31 (0)70 344 15 92
Fax: +31 (0)70 385 35 31

The Netherlands-India Association dates back to April 1951. During its past half a century history, its character and composition have changed considerably. The Association was created by a group of Dutch individuals, mostly academics, interested in the rich and diverse historical, cultural, social, religious, philosophical and spiritual aspects of India. In the beginning, membership of the Association was confined largely to the Dutch community because the Indian population in the Netherlands was rather scarce. Primarily, the Association was more concerned with academic activities such as organizing lectures, talks, debates and seminars highlighting the various aspects of Indian religions, culture and philosophy.

Late 1960s coincided with considerable change in the number of Indians living in the Netherlands and by 1969, their number rose significantly. This change marked a new phase in the history of the Association; the composition and character of the Association naturally but gradually started to reflect the socio-cultural interests of its Indian membership too. Its Constitution, written and adopted in June 1973, reflects this important change. The Netherlands-India Association has come a long way since its creation in 1951 but has always endeavoured to contribute actively to the development of Indo-Dutch cultural relations and to the strengthening of such bilateral ties.

Secretariat NIA:

Anna Jacominaplaat 6
3453 SX De Meern
The Netherlands

E-mail: davegurnani@gmail.com
Chamber of Commerce, The Hague: 404 07 501
Postbank account: 2971523 (Wassenaar)

The Foundation was created in 1980 by a group of dedicated and committed Indians living in The Netherlands, to work for progress and development of India. It was registered under the laws of The Netherlands in 1981, but its range of trusteeship is international in character. The basic idea behind the creation of the Foundation is to motivate Indians, especially those settled outside India, to rise above their immediate self-interest and to dedicate themselves to work for the welfare and progress of India. The Foundation provides a forum for channelling the energy and resources of non-resident Indians in this connection.

The Foundation is a purely Indian and a non-partisan organization. It is not aligned with any political party or group within or outside India. Nor does it represent any political ideology. In the pursuit of its objectives, the Foundation may participate in national political activities. However it interacts with different national and international organizations, but its actions are not motivated by partisan or sectarian considerations. The Foundation is committed to the democratic process and rule of law. It endeavours to achieve its objectives through democratic means. The Foundation is a non-profit making organization. Its purpose is to work for the good of India as a whole and not to serve the personal or sectarian interests of any individual or group.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Foundation are:

• To identify and define critical problems facing India and to suggest their long term rational solutions;
• To mobilize intellectual, moral and material resources, in particular of non-resident Indians, for the solution of critical problems facing India.

The secondary objective of the Foundation is to protect and promote general interests of Indians settled abroad in relation to various governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Trusteeship and Structure

Any Indian national or a person of Indian origin who is willing to dedicate himself/herself to the realization of the objectives of the Foundation can apply to become a Trustee of the Foundation. All applications for Trusteeship are subject to approval of the Executive Committee. Each Trustee is expected to make a regular financial contribution to the Foundation as determined by the Board of Trustees from time to time. Each Trustee is entitled to all the privileges of the Foundation including the right to vote and to be elected to any office of the Foundation.

The Foundation's business is conducted by its Office-bearers and the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee is elected by the Board of Trustees every two years. There are four office-bearers, namely, the President, Vice-President (programme), Vice-President (Finance), and the Secretary General, who are elected by the Executive Committee every two years, except the President whose tenure, though extendable, is for one year. One of the past presidents has also been nominated as President Emeritus and attends EC deliberations when he desires.

Activities

The Foundation pursues its objectives, inter alia, through preparation of detailed policy papers and through interaction with policy makers and opinion leaders. Following are some of the papers (Since its inception in 1980), the Foundation has prepared since its inception: (the following papers).

1. The Transfer of Technology to India and the Role of Non-Resident India;
2. Framework for the Future - a Case for a new Constitution for India;
3. Voting Rights for Indians living abroad in Indian Parliament and State Legislatures and their Representation in Indian Parliament;
4. A Case for a new comprehensive Indian Tax Act governing Non-Resident Indians;
5. The Transfer of Capital and the Role of Non-Resident Indians;
6. Some Aspects of Voting Rights and Nationality of Indians living abroad;
7. Basis of Indian Unity;
8. Dangers to unity of India;
9. The Punjab Problem;
10. India in the Year 2001 - A Political Scenario;
11. India in the Year 2001 - An Economic Scenario.

These papers have been discussed in the International Meetings and Conferences of NRIs/PIOs which the Foundation organizes from time to time besides being circulated among the decision makers in India. FCCI's most recent organized seminars/conferences include: dealing with dual nationality information, after math of Kargil and Indo Pak nuclear stand-off, water management, Vision India in 2020, Celebration of Sixty Years of Independence, to name only a few.

Apart from background studies, petitions and suggestions, The Foundation has two independent publications to its credit: Fifty Years of Indo-Dutch Cooperation , published to mark the golden jubilee celebration of Indian independence, and Foundation for Critical Choices for India: A Quarter Century of Service to India,

Besides preparing background studies, FCCI has been involved in some charity work also including, but not limited to, fundraising for Orissa Super Cyclone victims and the Kargil martyrs' families, building of schools in the super quake hit area of Gujarat and Tsunami hit area of Tamil Nadu.

We continued our policy of interaction with decision makers; some notable interactions took place with the former Prime Minister of Fiji, Chaudhary, ex-Ambassador At Large for NRI/PIOs, Dr. B. Agnihotry, eminent advocate, Mr. R. Jethmalani, Former Minister for International Trade and current Home Minister, Mr. P. Chidambaram and Mr Hegde, former Assam governor, Mr Jacob, the late Dr. L.M. Singhwi, Chairman High Level NRI/PIO Committee, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, ex-President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Central Law Minister Mr. Bhargava, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr. Vayalar Ravi, etc.

Some of the Foundation's suggestions have become integral part of the GOI's full long term policies and some other have already been implemented partially or wholly like the Panjab Problem, dual nationality, PIO card scheme, creation of a separate and new ministry to look after the interests of the NRI/PIO community and address their demands and problems.

A detailed report on the FCCI activities can be found in our most recent publication, Foundation for Critical Choices for India: A Quarter Century of Service to India, 2008.

Secretariat FCCI:

De Haar 173
2261 ZB Leidschendam
The Netherlands

Phone & Fax: +31 (0)70 32 76 004
E-mail: Info@fcci.nl
Website: www.fcci.nl

There are over 20 million People of Indian Origin (PIOs) living outside India. With this large group of people, a new global community has emerged. Most of People of Indian Origin have become highly successful in business or their profession. If their professional expertise and financial resources are pooled together, it will not only benefit People of Indian Origin but also India and the countries where they live. In addition, People of Indian Origin could assume a new role in providing help in case of crisis to (PIO) communities around the world.

Vision

GOPIO the Netherlands aims to bring People of Indian Origin in the Netherlands and the World together to promote their professional, cultural and social interests so that they can realize their maximum potential in the service of global peace, prosperity, happiness and compassion. GOPIO the Netherlands is also dedicated to the promotion of the well being of People of Indian Origin and enhancement of cooperation & communication between People of Indian Origin in the Netherlands as well as in other countries in the world.

History

The National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA) organized the First Global Convention of PIOs in New York on August 28 - Sept. 3, 1989. This convention provided an opportunity for sharing the experience of international Indian communities on a common forum and to foster harmony with a feeling of brotherhood and fellowship amongst the PIOs. Attended by over 3000 delegates, the convention identified and discussed problems facing People of Indian Origin. It also provided a necessary forum at the national and international level to voice their concerns. For the first time, a book on Migration of Indians around the World was published at the convention where twenty six resolutions pertaining to the various issues and interests of the community were adopted. GOPIO (Global Organization of People of Indian Origin) was founded at this convention.

Since it's founding in 1989, GOPIO has organized conferences, seminars, talks, discussions and other activities, aimed at emphasizing PIO activities and highlighting its serious concern for effective international networking and development of PIO entrepreneurs. GOPIO has also tirelessly worked on ways to prepare the PIO business community to face tough global business challenges and to help place them in a position to excel in the international scene in the new millennium. In addition to business activities, GOPIO has also directed its energies to areas of youth and culture through its cultural and youth exchange programs.

With an aim to actively involve the Indian Diaspora community in the Netherlands, Drs. Rajindre Tewari took the initiative to start a new chapter of GOPIO in the Netherlands. The GOPIO the Netherlands chapter started functioning from 27th November 2005.

Mission

GOPIO the Netherlands provides a platform for People of Indian Origin in the Netherlands and the world to network together for mutual development and advancement.

• To promote the common cultural heritage and legacy of Indians in the Netherlands and abroad.
• To energize professional and intellectual resources of Indians in the Netherlands and the world in order to realize their maximum potentialities.
• To make a difference by their contributions to the Netherlands, India and the world.
• To contribute to global peace, prosperity, happiness and compassion.

GOPIO the Netherlands:

E-mail: info@gopioholland.nl
Website: www.gopioholland.nl

The Indian Business Chamber was established in 1988 to provide a forum for the Indian Business Community to protect, advance and promote its commercial interests in the Netherlands, in particular, and in the European Community, in general, and also to make the authorities and the public aware of the contribution and role of the Indian Business community to the general development of the Dutch economy. It has held varies seminars in cooperation with the Dutch Chambers of Commerce, hosted many trade delegations from India and facilitated exchange of information among its members. The IBC has 30 Companies as members at present.

The IBC is active in the following areas:

• It provides a forum for the Indian business community of The Netherlands to foster and develop closer ties amongst its members.
• To promote, advance and protect the commercial interests of its members.
• To identify and discuss problems facing its members and share their individual experiences.
• To act as a liaison between Business community from India and The Netherlands.
• To make the Dutch government and public the role of the Indian business community in The Netherlands.
• To promote business and economic relations between India and The Netherlands to the mutual benefit of both the countries.
• To facilitate exchange of information-commercial, legal, fiscal etc- among its members and organize talks by experts on trade and other related matters.

Membership

All companies established in the Netherlands or in the EEC in which persons of Indian origin have majority share holding shall be eligible to become members on terms and conditions laid down by the Executive Board.

Associate Membership

A company or a high profile person of an Indian origin, not otherwise eligible for membership but supports the aims and objects of the IBC, may, upon such terms and conditions laid down by the Executive Board, become an associate member.

Board

IBC Secretariat:

Indian Business Chamber
Anna Jacominaplaat 4
3453 SX De Meern
The Netherlands

Tel: +31 (0)6 3423 5599
E-mail: dkgurnani@hotmail.com





The Foundation Eekta Federation was founded in the early 70's and is an umbrella organization of the Hindu socio-cultural and religious institutions in the Hague region. Eekta provides, together with its members, a contribution to the social emancipation of the Hindu audience. The foundation does this by holding office hours, conducting socio-cultural activities, organizing courses in Hindi, yoga, classical Indian dance and Hindu music.

The organization was founded by Mr. R. Bharatsingh, Mr. M. Nabi and Mr. T. Rangoe. The members of the current committee are President Mr. Ch. Rambaran Mishre, Secretary Ms. U.R. Khodabaks, Treasurer Mr. T. Rangoe, Committee Member Mr. N. Sardar and the Manager is Mr. W. Goerdin.

Objectives

Under the municipal socio-cultural policy, Eekta primarily has a venue offering function, as well as offering the following activities:

Art and Culture Activities

Based on its position as urban identity organization, Eekta initiates and organizes various activities on cultural experience, cultural transmission and cultural development, as a contribution to cultural diversity in a multicultural society. "Unity in diversity" is a slogan the Eekta Federation utilises.

In particular:

Regular activities in the framework of the commemorative days, such as the Holi (Spring) celebration, Hindustani immigration commemoration, Divali (festival of lights) and the Idul Fitre celebration (Festival of Breaking).

Elderly work activities

Hindustani elderly above 50 years receive extra attention from the foundation, in the following areas:

a. Formation and assistance of elderly support groups;
b. Annually organizing of the Day of the Elderly (Oemidaron ka Din);
c. Stimulating activities in the context of combating loneliness , i.e. day care project "Sukh Sansaar" (Happy Life).

Informing and information care

Informing and information care are essential elements of the policy when it comes to fighting the disadvantages of the target group and strive for equal opportunities in all sectors of society. Eekta has the ability to radio broadcast via cable FM frequency on 95.9 Mhz.

Mission statement & vision

The Foundation's goal:

1. Helping to create a society in which the Dutch residents of the Surinamese minority groups, in general and from the Hindu group in particular, have full and equal development opportunities;
2. Creating opportunities for Hindustanis in the Hague and surrounding area, to come and experience the manifestation of socio cultural, recreational and social characteristics to promote a balanced development;
3. Providing and promoting education about the backgrounds, language, culture and religion of the Hindu target group;
4. Supporting groups and organizations in areas where adequate facilities for Hindus are absent, in cooperation with local, provincial and national organizations and institutions;
5. To provide advice to government bodies and private institutions in general about the Suriname society and in particular about Hindus;
6. The launch of empowerment processes in the Hindu community;
7. Identification of bottlenecks in the Hindu society to related agencies and institutions.

Contact Information

Stichting Federatie Eekta
Eekta Bhawan
Boylesstraat 20
2563 EK Den Haag

Telephone: +31 (0)70 3653 903, +31 (0)70 3653 904