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Picture Courtesy: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/addressing-illegal-immigration-a-role-for-india-and-global-cooperation/article68903596.ece
India advocates for global cooperation to promote regulated migration, humane solutions, and shared responsibility in addressing illegal immigration issues.
It is defined as the movement of people into a country in violation of its immigration laws, or the continued presence in a country without a legal right to do so. They generally move from poorer to wealthier countries.
Illegal immigration leads to economic hardship, social instability, and national security concerns.
It disrupts economies by increasing the demand for public services, lowering tax revenues, and putting pressure on labor markets.
It also raises serious concern about national security.
The United States has taken a hardline standing on illegal immigration, especially during the tenure of President Donald Trump. This included calls for mass deportation.
Large-scale deportations have a significant financial cost, estimated to be around $315 billion initially, with long-term expenses expected to reach $968 billion over ten years.
The approach may also result in a loss of skilled labor, lower tax revenues, and family separation.
India is facing significant challenges from illegal immigration, mostly from neighboring countries such as Bangladesh and Myanmar.
Assam and West Bengal have experienced significant migration, raising concerns about employment, social stability, and cultural preservation.
To address the issues, India has implemented policies such as the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), which have generated controversy.
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By sharing technology and intelligence, both countries can better secure their borders.
Simplifying legal migration channels will reduce wait times and promote lawful immigration.
Programs to promote economic growth in high-migration areas can address the underlying causes of illegal immigration.
Collaborative efforts to assist migrants and refugees will promote safety and dignity, reducing the need for illegal migration.
By collaborating with US immigration agencies, India can take a proactive approach to offer the voluntary return of undocumented Indian migrants. |
India can utilise its influence at the United Nations to propose resolutions to address serious issues such as border security, fair treatment of migrants, and efficient returning processes.
India can take the lead in developing a secure and humane migration system by advocating for globally agreed-upon protocols.
India can also collaborate with countries that regularly receive Indian migrants to establish legal migration routes and combat human trafficking.
India can set an example by promoting regulated migration, supporting the return of undocumented migrants, and encouraging international cooperation.
By collaborating with countries such as the United States and other Western nations, India can help to create a more humane and effective immigration system, which can serve as a model for addressing illegal immigration through compassion, cooperation, and shared responsibility.
Way Forward
International coordinated action could assist countries in developing lawful migration processes, reducing human trafficking, and improving international relations.
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.How can India strike a balance between national security concerns and humanitarian obligations while addressing issues related to illegal immigration? |
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