Illegal Migration from India- Explained Pointwise

The recent incident, involving the forced return of 303 Indians detained at a French airport, highlights the menace of illegal migration from India. The desperation and distress faced by Indian youths, particularly in the wake of the farming crisis, have led to a concerning surge in illegal migration from India.

Increasing illegal migration numbers
1. According to the latest U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, from November 2022 to September 2023, up to 96,917 Indians were arrested while crossing illegally into the U.S.

2. In 2019-20,19,883 Indians were apprehended. In 2020-21, up to 30,662 Indians were arrested, while in 2021-22 this number was 63,927.

What is donkey routes used by the illegal migrants?

Donkey route- This illegal Migration from India is called taking ‘donkey routes’. This refers to a method where migrants transit through various countries with lenient visa policies to finally reach their dream destinations, particularly the U.S., the U.K., Canada and EU.

Sometimes, migrants even resort to dangerous ways of crossing a border like-
a. Traversing dense forests inhabited by wild animals and criminal gangs
b. Travelling in sub-zero temperatures
c.  Crossing rivers and other water bodies in rickety boats and treacherous conditions

Route used to enter Europe by the illegal migrants

Siberia has Visa free regime for Indians. This is exploited by creating fake travel history to get into Siberia. From there, the illegal migrants enter into Austria, Hungary and Romania, and ultimately to Italy and France.

Route used to enter US by illegal Migrants

Countries like Ecuador, Bolivia, and Guyana have visas on arrival for Indian citizens. The illegal migrants use this route to get into US. Nowadays, many illegal migrants first go to Europe, and from there, directly to Mexico and ultimately get into US.

What are the factors propelling illegal Migration from India?

1. Farming Crisis- Low agricultural productivity, debt burdens, and unpredictable weather patterns have contributed to agrarian distress and farming crisis. This crisis has led to plummeting of incomes and exacerbated the vulnerability of individuals, making them susceptible to exploitation.

2. Unemployment- High youth unemployment in rural areas has driven individuals to seek illegal migration from India. For ex- Punjab rural unemployment.

3. Poverty- Economic hardship and poverty are significant drivers of illegal migration.

4. Lack of Educational Opportunities- Limited access to quality education hampers skill development among the youth, forcing them to seek high paying unskilled jobs outside.

5. Social Pressures- Social and familial expectations contribute to the pressure on young individuals to provide stable income to their families.

6. Paralysis in implementation of Government Policies- Ineffective policies related to agriculture, employment, and economic development have exacerbated the illegal migration distress.

7. Trafficking Racket and Exploitation- Trafficking racket appears widespread, particularly in rural Punjab and Haryana. Individuals in these regions seem to fall prey to promises of a better future in the U.S. exacerbating illegal migration from India.

What should be the way forward?

The following measures must be undertaken as a way forward to solve the complex problem of illegal migration from India.

1. Agricultural Reforms- Strengthen and expand policies like PM-KISAN, focusing on technology integration and market access. This will increase agricultural income and remove agricultural distress.

2. Job Creation- Enhance MGNREGA coverage and introduce sector-specific initiatives to boost employment in rural areas.

3. Education and Skill Development- Invest in education infrastructure and promote vocational training through Skill India Mission.

4. Social Welfare Programs- Extend the reach and impact of existing schemes, ensuring they address the specific needs of vulnerable populations.

5. International Collaboration- Collaborate with destination countries like US and Europe, sharing best practices and ensuring fair and legal migration pathways.

As India grapples with the complexities of illegal migration, these targeted interventions can pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future. By addressing the root causes and providing viable alternatives, the government can empower its citizens and create a conducive environment for growth and prosperity.