In the aftermath of the mass murder in Mumbai, there is much for India to do: hunt the culprits, punish the sponsors, rebuild the city’s landmarks and revamp the political, economic and physical infrastructure of the nation’s defence. The Indian citizen is angry and demanding action from the political class. For members of the Indian diaspora, however, the pain is no less keen but the feeling of helplessness is perhaps even greater; not being there somehow makes us feel even less connected, even less able to make our voices heard.

I have been thinking about this, and what an individual NRI can do in these times to make some kind of difference. The terrorists who attacked Mumbai had many aims, but chief amongst them was to cast a shadow over the modern story of India and to damage the economy. This is where we NRIs have the most to contribute. Amidst the sadness and the anger I get a flash of resolve: that we must reply by redoubling our commitment to our country.

So here is my humble three point plan for the Indian NRI:

1) Be an advocate for India. Write to your local politicians and ask them to strongly support India in her time of need. Support local Indians - go to see that Bollywood movie or cultural show, buy Indian products and food, talk to Indians on the street. Engage with others in a positive way about your culture and explain to them the context of what happened in Mumbai. All of us are ambassadors for India, and now that role is more important than ever.

2) Do business with India. If you were thinking of investing, do it. If you already invest there, double your investment. If you were thinking of working with an Indian company, call them and make the deal. The India story will continue, but we can make a difference by showing our belief in the future of India in a tangible way. Terrorism is not just about blood but also money, and it is through our money that the NRI community can make the most emphatic statement.

3) Go to India. Make plans to visit whenever you can for work or for pleasure. Call your relatives and tell them you will visit. Book a ticket to Mumbai. When the Taj is rebuilt, go to the Sea Lounge; order a vodka martini with someone you love; sit back, look out onto the Arabian Sea and make a toast to India and her people.