Understanding Indian Diaspora Waves and Migration Destinations

The term 'Indian Diaspora' refers to people who have migrated from the territories that are currently within the Republic of India. This migration has occurred over different periods and for various reasons, leading to distinct waves of migration. Each wave is often associated with specific push and pull factors and destination countries.

Let's look at the major waves of Indian migration:

• First Wave: This wave primarily occurred during the British colonial period, roughly from the early 19th century to the early 20th century. It involved large-scale migration of indentured labourers, mostly from impoverished rural areas of North and South India, to British colonies. These labourers were sent to work on plantations (sugar, rubber, tea, etc.) in various parts of the world.
• Second Wave: This wave began after India gained independence, particularly picking up pace from the mid-20th century onwards. Unlike the first wave, this wave consists largely of professionals, skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students seeking better educational or economic opportunities abroad.

Now, let's consider the typical destinations for each wave:

• First Wave Destinations: Common destinations for indentured labourers included countries in the Caribbean (like Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname), Africa (like Mauritius, South Africa, Kenya), and the Pacific (like Fiji).
• Second Wave Destinations: Migrants in the second wave primarily moved to developed countries in the West (like the USA, Canada, UK, Australia) and increasingly to countries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. They often filled specific labour demands in professional fields like healthcare, engineering, IT, and academia, or established businesses.

Analyzing the Options based on Indian Diaspora Waves

Let's examine the given options in the context of the two waves of Indian Diaspora migration:

• Mauritius: Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius received a significant number of Indian indentured labourers during the first wave. It is a classic first-wave destination.
• Fiji: Located in the Pacific Ocean, Fiji also received a large number of Indian indentured labourers under the Girmitiya system during the first wave. It is another typical first-wave destination.
• Thailand: Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand became a destination for Indian migrants, particularly from the second wave onwards. These migrants were often businessmen, professionals, and their families, integrating into the local economy. Southeast Asia, in general, became a significant destination region for the second wave of migrants seeking economic opportunities and establishing businesses.
• Canada: Located in North America, Canada is a well-known destination for second-wave Indian migrants, particularly professionals and skilled workers who migrated there after the mid-20th century seeking better job prospects and quality of life.

Considering the characteristics and destinations of the waves, Mauritius and Fiji are clearly associated with the first wave of indentured labour migration. Both Thailand (as part of Southeast Asia) and Canada are associated with the second wave of migration involving professionals and businessmen.

The question asks about a country where second-wave migrants settled. Based on the typical destinations of the second wave which include Southeast Asia and North America, both Thailand and Canada fit the description of a second-wave destination. However, among the options provided, Thailand is listed as a destination for the second wave, specifically representing migration into Southeast Asia, alongside destinations like Singapore, Malaysia, etc.

Therefore, among the given options, Thailand is identified as a country where migrants of the second wave of Indian Diaspora went to settle.

Revision Table: Key Facts on Indian Diaspora Waves

Additional Information on Indian Migration

It's important to note that these 'waves' are broad classifications, and migration is a continuous and complex process. Some scholars also talk about a 'third wave' starting more recently, involving Indian professionals moving to emerging economies or returning to India after working abroad. The motivations for migration are diverse and include economic opportunities, educational pursuits, family ties, and sometimes political factors. Understanding the historical context helps in identifying the destinations associated with different phases of the Indian Diaspora.