NEW DELHI: An encyclopedia that charts in detail the growth of the Indian diaspora and aims to consolidate their achievements and contributions to global culture, business and arts was launched in the national capital.

The book, "Encyclopedia of Indian Diaspora" which was launched by Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia Thursday, surveys the worldwide spread of the Indian communities that set out to maintain their 'Indian-ness' in a range of ways - through music, language, religion and dress.

The encyclopedia has been priced at Rs.2,500.

Edited by Brij Lal of the Australian National University and published by Editions Didier Millet, the project has been funded by Citibank.

Peter Reeves and Rajesh Rai, both from the National University of Singapore, are the executive and assistant editors respectively.

"Two years in the making, with contributions from over 60 academics and experts in the field from over 15 countries, the encyclopedia is an ambitious project that could not have taken off the ground without the early and generous support of Citibank," said Timothy Auger, Editorial Director, Editions Didier Millet.

Apart from an exhaustive text, the encyclopedia has over 800 photographs of great artistic and historic value, including over 450 in colour and over 140 maps, tables and figures.

"We are delighted to be the presenting sponsor of this unique encyclopedia. Our sponsorship reflects our pride and support for the global Indian community, which continues to grow in size and importance," said Sanjay Nayar, CEO of Citigroup India.