Over the last ten years, there has been a significant increase in unauthorized Indian migration into the United States. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection data reveals a leap from a mere 1,500 a decade earlier to an astonishing 96,917 in 2023. Especially since 2020, there has been a considerable spike in illicit crossings by Indians, contrasting with historically lower figures under 10,000. The principal unlawful crossings commonly took place on the U.S.-Mexico border, but Indian migrants have recently shown a preference for the northern border; their numbers rising from under 100 in 2014 to over 30,000 in 2023.
Understanding Migration and Its Cause
The International Organization for Migration characterizes a migrant as anyone who is moving or has relocated across an international border or within a state away from their usual place of residence. Migration is the process of people relocating from one area to another, either temporarily or permanently.
There are several push factors contributing to the surge in illegal Indian immigrants to the U.S. Many people are driven by inadequate job possibilities and economic prospects in India to seek better employment opportunities overseas. Furthermore, some people driven by social conflicts or lack of faith in India’s governance system may prefer more stable surroundings elsewhere.
The U.S., known for providing superior employment, higher salaries, and career progression, serves as a significant pull factor for migrants. The appeal of quality education and esteemed academic institutions in the U.S. magnetizes students and families searching for educational opportunities. A desire to reunite with family members or relatives already established in America leads some migrants to seek illicit entry for closeness to their loved ones.
Global Migration Patterns and Alternative Routes
The overall rise in global migration after the pandemic has factored into this surge, with people seeking better chances and security in other countries. Additionally, delays in visa processing have urged individuals to search for alternative, albeit illegal, methods to enter the U.S. due to extended waiting times and limited options for legal entry.
Troubling Misinformation
Deceptive information propagated through social media and dishonest travel agencies often mislead desperate migrants, enticing them to embark on dangerous journeys guided by numerous facilitators across continents. Desperate migrants may undertake complex, multi-stage journeys passing through various continents and countries, confronting several risks and difficulties along the way.
Socio-Political and Geo-Political Implications for India
This issue can influence India’s bilateral relations with the USA, potentially affecting trade negotiations, security cooperation, and strategic partnerships. Economic factors include potential brain drain resulting from skilled people seeking illegal entry, which may impact India’s segments where skilled labor is in demand. The departure of skilled or semi-skilled workers may create labor shortages in some sectors, affecting India’s workforce and economic productivity. As a result, India may need to adopt stringent policies to address the drivers behind illegal migration, potentially diverting resources and focus from other developmental priorities.
Way Forward
The ideal way forward would focus on enhancing economic stability, generating jobs, and implementing social welfare programs to mitigate distress and offer better opportunities within India. It’s also crucial to participate in diplomatic dialogues to understand and address issues leading to migration, cooperating with other nations to ensure the protection of migrants’ rights.
