US Deportations Affect India and Relations Significantly

Source: The post US Deportations Affect India and Relations Significantly has been created, based on the article “Not worth the risk: On the U.S., India and illegal emigration” published in “The Hindu” on 6th February 2025.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International Relations-Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

Context: The article discusses the deportation of illegal Indian immigrants from the U.S. under stricter immigration policies. It highlights the use of military flights, diplomatic concerns, and India’s responsibility to prevent illegal migration by addressing economic issues and raising awareness.

For detailed information on Trump’s Policies Impact India’s Economy and Workers read this article here

Why Are These Deportations Significant?

1. Large Scale: The U.S. deported 1,60,000 individuals between June and October 2024 to over 145 countries, including India.
2. Undocumented Indians: There are 7,25,000 undocumented Indians in the U.S., making them a key group affected. States like Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana have high numbers of illegal immigrants.
3. Use of Military Flights: For the first time, military flights were used, showing strict enforcement.
4. Diplomatic Concerns: The deportations coincided with Prime Minister Modi’s U.S. visit, creating tensions.
5. Harsh Treatment: Reports of shackling migrants led to protests, including from Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

What is the impact on India-U.S. relations?

1. These deportations happened just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s U.S. visit.
2. This suggests that diplomatic talks may not stop such actions. It could create tensions between India and the U.S.

What should India do?

1. India must verify and accept deported citizens.
2. The government must also stop illegal migration by:

• Educating youth in states with high deportation rates.
• Highlighting the risks of illegal migration.
• Addressing economic distress, unemployment, and the agricultural crisis.
• Preventing people from traveling to dangerous regions for work.

Conclusion

India cannot change U.S. immigration policies. But it must solve the root causes of migration. This needs urgent action from both the central and state governments.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the impact of the U.S. deportation of illegal Indian immigrants on India-U.S. relations and India’s responsibility in addressing illegal migration.