India-U.S. Team Up to Address Irregular Migration, Repatriate 18,000 Immigrants

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets Indian counterpart Dr. S. Jaishankar in Washington, D.C., Jan. 21, 2025. PHOTO: X @DrSJaishankar

As the U.S. intensifies its crackdown on undocumented immigrants, India has pledged cooperation to verify and accept its nationals living illegally within American borders. Recent reports indicate that around 18,000 Indian citizens are set to be repatriated, with the number potentially rising as more undocumented cases are identified.

In a proactive measure, Indian authorities are working to verify the nationality of individuals flagged by U.S. officials. If verified as Indian citizens, these individuals will be accepted back. This bilateral initiative underscores India’s commitment to discouraging illegal migration while promoting lawful channels for its citizens abroad.

Focus on Maintaining Legal Migration Channels

The collaboration comes amidst efforts by both nations to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. Indian officials have emphasized their focus on preserving the integrity of programs such as H-1B and student visas, which facilitate legal migration for skilled professionals and students. Notably, Indian nationals account for a substantial portion of H-1B visa recipients, with nearly 75% of the 386,000 visas granted in 2023 going to Indian citizens.

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“India supports orderly migration and has consistently opposed unlawful methods of immigration,” a government spokesperson stated. “Through this partnership, we aim to reinforce the importance of following legal pathways for working or studying abroad.”

Regional Trends in Migration

A significant portion of Indian migration to the U.S. originates from states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, where aspirations for better economic opportunities abroad are deeply rooted. However, this trend has also resulted in a rise in illegal routes facilitated by unscrupulous networks. The ongoing deportation process highlights the challenges of tackling this issue while ensuring that legal avenues remain accessible.

Balancing Diplomacy and Domestic Impact

While India seeks to strengthen its relationship with the U.S., the repatriation effort also raises concerns about the reintegration of deported individuals into Indian society. Experts warn that a sudden influx of returnees could strain local economies and require robust rehabilitation programs.

On the diplomatic front, India’s cooperation on migration aligns with its broader strategy of enhancing ties with global powers. By addressing irregular migration, India hopes to foster goodwill and collaboration with the U.S., particularly in areas of trade and strategic partnerships.

Looking Ahead

This initiative is part of a larger global trend as countries tighten immigration policies and enforce stricter border controls. For India, the challenge lies in balancing international cooperation with domestic preparedness to support returning citizens. As the world’s largest democracy, India’s approach to migration issues will likely serve as a benchmark for other nations grappling with similar concerns.