India and Global Migration: Challenges and Opportunities
The movement of people worldwide has significantly increased, with India being a major contributor. In the last 50 years, the number of international migrants has more than tripled, now representing 4% of the global population.
India's Diaspora and Remittances
- Largest Diaspora: India has the largest diaspora globally, with over 3.5 crore Indians (nearly 1 in 40) living abroad.
- Remittances: India receives approximately $130 billion annually in remittances, surpassing the $42 billion from foreign investments and crucial for offsetting trade deficits and building reserves.
Migratory Trends and Implications
The ease of transportation and communication, alongside demographic and income differences, have fueled migration, creating new economic, cultural, and political connections.
Policy on Indians Abroad
- Foreign policy now aims to facilitate overseas work opportunities for Indians, viewing them as assets.
- Dual citizenship has been a contentious issue, with calls for its reevaluation.
Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)
- Established in 2005, OCI is not dual citizenship. It restricts voting, public office holding, and agricultural land purchases.
- OCI, perceived as a privilege, faces criticism for equating holders with foreign nationals in various contexts.
Advocacy for Genuine Dual Citizenship
- There's a push for Indians to retain citizenship when acquiring a foreign passport, aligning with global practices.
- Political rights, like voting, could be managed by allowing overseas voting or requiring physical presence, with high offices restricted to sole citizens.
Security and Legal Considerations
- Security concerns, primarily from historical contexts, are seen as surmountable with individual assessments and limitations based on recent generational ties.
- Dual citizenship laws should ensure equal application to all citizens, including those with additional citizenships.
Benefits of Dual Citizenship
- It would solidify ties, encourage investments, and better reflect complex identities and global interconnections, benefiting India's socio-economic landscape.
Conclusion
Embracing dual citizenship could foster a stronger emotional and practical connection with Indians living abroad, enhancing their contributions to India while acknowledging their multiple identities.