Living in foreign soil, eminent Indians who have excelled in diverse fields can now contribute for the overall development of India.

The government has put in place a mechanism under which the Indian diaspora will be able to share their experience and knowledge in diverse areas including technology, education and health sector.

In its report to the people on the occasion of completion of first year of UPA II, the government said it has set up of an online platform 'Global Indian Network of Knowledge' for sharing knowledge and experiences of the diaspora.

The government said a 'Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians' has been set up to draw upon experiences and knowledge of eminent people of Indian origin from across the globe.

Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen, steel magnate L N Mittal and Pepsico CEO Indra Nooyi are among the 20 global business leaders and economists of Indian origin who are members of the council. The first meeting of the Council was held on January 7, 2010 here.

"Global Indian Network of Knowledge is an electronic platform that will connect people of Indian origin from a variety of disciplines, recognised as leaders in their respective fields, not just in their country of residence but globally as well..The network will serve as a strategic 'virtual think tank'," the report said.

The Global INK is operational since January one this year.

The report also mentioned about the eighth edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas which was was held here from January 7 to 9.

"The Convention was attended by over 1,500 delegates from different countries. On this occasion, Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards were conferred on 14 overseas Indians," the report said.

Government said it signed social security pacts with Switzerland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Hungary and Denmark to ensure welfare of Indians working in these countries.

The report said government also approved the proposal for setting up the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) in the Indian Missions in 17 countries where emigration check is required, and the Maldives.

"The ICWF will enable extending on site welfare and emergency relief to overseas Indians in distress," it said.