Illegal Migration and The Donkey Route

Illegal Migration and The Donkey Route

News: Recent instances involving the forced return of 303 Indians detained at a French airport brings forth the issue of illegal migration from India.

Background:
• According to the latest U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, from November 2022 to September 2023, up to 96,917 Indians were arrested while crossing illegally into the U.S.

What is the Donkey Route?
• The “Donkey Route” is a term used to describe a risky immigration route that many Indians pursue despite the dangers of reaching countries such as the United States, Europe, or the United Kingdom.
• The term “dunki” is actually a regional pronunciation of the \'donkey route\'. The term has been derived from an idiom in Punjabi which literally means \'moving from one place to another\'
• This route typically involves illegal border crossings via indirect routes with multiple stops in different countries. For instance, individuals might obtain a tourist visa for the European Union’s Schengen Area, allowing free movement across 26 countries, and then illegally enter the UK with the help of “consultants” or \'agents\'

What reasons propel Illegal Migration from India?
Illegal Migration from India is propelled by a combination of push and pull factors:

Push Factors in India:
• Lack of Job Opportunities and Economic Prospects: Many individuals in India face insufficient job opportunities and economic prospects, prompting them to seek better employment abroad.
• Agricultural Crisis: Low agricultural productivity, debt burdens, and unpredictable weather patterns have contributed to agrarian distress, particularly in rural areas like Punjab.
• Unemployment: High youth unemployment, especially in rural regions, is a significant driver of illegal migration.
• Poverty and Economic Hardship: These factors are major motivators for individuals seeking better livelihoods abroad.
• Lack of Educational Opportunities: Limited access to quality education restricts skill development, pushing youths towards unskilled jobs overseas.
• Ineffective Governance Policies: Paralysis in the implementation of government policies related to agriculture and employment exacerbates the situation.
 Trafficking and Exploitation: Widespread trafficking rackets, especially in regions like Punjab and Haryana, mislead individuals with promises of a better future abroad Pull Factors in the Destination countries:
• Better Employment and Higher Wages: The reputation of countries like the U.S. for offering lucrative job opportunities acts as a significant draw.
• Quality Education: The allure of prestigious academic institutions in the U.S. attracts students and families.
• Family Reunification: The desire to be closer to family members already settled in countries like the U.S. is a strong motivator.

Way Forward
• Agricultural Reforms: Strengthen and expand policies like PM-KISAN, focusing on technology integration and market access.
• Create jobs through MGNREGA. Unemployment in Urban areas is also high thus MGNREGA programme catering to Urban poor can help significantly.
• Promote vocational training, invest in ITIs, encourage new age skilling opportunities to young graduates.
• Social Welfare Programs: Extend the reach and impact of existing schemes, ensuring they address the specific needs of vulnerable populations