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Indians in China
India boasts the world’s largest diaspora, with approximately 32 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) living abroad. According to the Ministry of External Affairs’ 2018 report, the Indian population in China stood at 56,050, comprising:
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs): 550
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): 55,500
By 2026, the estimated Indian population in China has grown to around 60,000.
read about the Population of Overseas Indians
Source: MEA report about overseas Indian population.
China Indian population
Indians form less than 0.1% of China’s vast population. The Indian community in China consists mainly of expatriates, including students, traders, and professionals working with multinational corporations, Indian companies, and banks. This diverse group has made notable contributions in sectors like information technology, medicine, and international trade.
Indian Students in China
China has become a popular destination for Indian students, especially for medical education.
- In 2019, the total number of Indian students in China was 23,000, with 21,000 pursuing medical degrees.
- The trend of Indians studying in China began in 2004 when the country opened its doors to international students for medical courses.
- Andhra Pradesh is particularly well-represented, with 5,000 medical students reported in 2011.
Apart from medicine, a smaller number of Indian students pursue courses in language studies and engineering.
Religion of the Indian Population in China
Indians have historically played a crucial role in disseminating Buddhism in China. Today, the majority of the Indian community in China includes Bengalis, Biharis, and North Indians.
The primary religion among Indians in China is Hinduism, but the community also has a significant number of Sikhs and Christians.
also read about religion in China