Strict immigration policies and declining job demand in countries like Canada, England and the US have left Indian students and workers sleepless. Many fear deportation, while many have already returned to India.
Over 30,000 in Canada at risk of deportation
The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) in Canada has started preparations to deport 30,687 illegal immigrants. Of these, the largest number after Mexico are Indians, with students from Punjab and Gujarat leading the way. According to the CBSA report, this situation has arisen due to cases such as violating visa rules, staying after the expiry of work permits, criminal activities and rejection of political asylum applications. In particular, 27,140 people, who had sought political asylum, are now on the verge of deportation. Apart from this, 1400 students who came on study permits and dropped out midway, and 1256 people involved in criminal cases are also in this list. The worst-affected areas are Quebec (16,556) and Greater Toronto (9,699), where a large number of Indians live.
Indians disillusioned in England, 58,000 return
Indian students and workers in England also took a big hit. According to 2024 data, 37,000 students, 18,000 workers and 3,000 other Indians left the country due to strict visa policies and lack of jobs. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) report, there was a decline of 431,000 in net migration, with Indians leading the way. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a success of his government, but it shattered the dreams of Indian students. Restrictions on study visas and lack of jobs after studies have forced many Indians to return.
Threat of ‘brain drain’ in America
The situation in America is also not much better. According to a survey by Nature magazine, more than 75% of scientists are thinking of leaving the US, as academic freedom is under threat. This includes Indian students and professionals. Strict H-1B visa policies and competition have made it difficult to get jobs. A situation similar to Germany in the 1930s seems to be repeating itself, when scientists left the country.
Efforts by the Indian government and the Punjab government
The Indian government is now engaged in efforts to bring back talent from abroad. In 1930, C.V. Raman and Madan Mohan Malviya invited foreign scientists to India, and now the government is thinking of reviving such initiatives. With schemes like the New Education Policy (NEP 2020) and “Make in India”, local jobs and education opportunities are being increased. The Punjab government is also working on keeping an eye on foreign education agents and increasing local opportunities. Along with this, talks have been started with Canada and England, so that Indians can get safe opportunities.
The troubles of Indians, especially Punjabis, abroad have forced governments and society to think. If opportunities are increased at the local level and talent is brought back, then India can turn this crisis into an opportunity. However, the situation is still serious, and unrest is growing among the people.
