Vision and Purpose

The Global Girmitiya Lineage Archive & Searching Centre (GGLASC), based in Madhubani, Bihar, is a pioneering initiative dedicated to preserving the history, identity, and heritage of the Girmitiya diaspora. This initiative operates under the Mahavir Singh Memorial Trust, an NGO established on 28th November 1992 to honor India’s freedom fighters and to serve marginalized communities through education, healthcare, and social welfare programs.

GGLASC expands the Trust’s mission by reconnecting the descendants of Indian indentured laborers, known as Girmitiyas, who migrated to colonies across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Despite the hardships of displacement and limited historical documentation, millions of their descendants worldwide still seek to trace their ancestral roots.

Historical Context

Between 1834 and the early 20th century, over 1.2 million Indians were sent abroad under indentured labor agreements to work in plantations and colonial enterprises. Many returned to India, but a significant portion settled permanently in countries like Mauritius, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Fiji, South Africa, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Réunion.

Due to incomplete records, countless families lost contact with their origins. GGLASC addresses this historical gap by providing digital archives, genealogical resources, and social platforms to restore ancestral connections and strengthen cultural identity.

Key Diaspora Communities

Mauritius – 450,000

Guyana (formerly British Guiana) – 238,000

Trinidad & Tobago – 147,000

Suriname – 34,000

Jamaica – 36,000

Fiji – 60,000

South Africa (Natal) – 152,000

Malaysia & Myanmar (Burma) – 250,000

Réunion – 26,000

Core Objectives

GGLASC is committed to:

Archiving and Preserving Heritage – Digitally conserving historical documents, photographs, and migration records.

Genealogical Support – Assisting descendants in tracing family lineages and connecting with long-lost relatives.

Academic and Research Collaboration – Establishing global partnerships and joint research programs to advance Girmitiya studies.

Community Engagement – Promoting cultural exchange and awareness through programs, events, and heritage initiatives.

Educational Outreach – Creating learning modules and workshops to document and disseminate the experiences of Girmitiyas.

Through these measures, GGLASC seeks to create a living bridge between the Indian homeland and its diaspora, fostering pride, knowledge, and belonging.

Guiding Inspiration

The initiative draws inspiration from the Indian Prime Minister’s address on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, 9 January 2025:

“We must chart the journeys of our Girmitiya brothers and sisters—tracking where they came from, where they settled, and the paths they forged across the globe. Studying their legacy can guide us in understanding resilience, opportunity, and shared history. India today moves forward with the mantra: Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi—progress along with heritage.”

GGLASC embodies this vision, ensuring that the Girmitiya legacy is recognized, preserved, and celebrated for generations to come.