On January 10, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his debut in the podcast world, chatting with entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath. During their talk, Modi reflected on a moment from his past when he, as Chief Minister of Gujarat, was denied a US visa. He called it an “insult” to both his government and the nation. Modi shared his vision of a future where people from around the globe flock to India for opportunities. “I now see that it’s India’s time,” he expressed, echoing sentiments he first shared in a 2005 press conference.
Since 2014, when Modi took office, he has frequently touted a “New India” rising in confidence. His government promises a self-assured nation stepping boldly into global visibility through initiatives like Amritkaal and Viksit Bharat. However, behind these grand declarations lies a disconcerting reality: an increasing number of Indians are choosing to leave their homeland each year.
Recent statistics show a worrying trend. In the last three years, over 200,000 Indians have officially renounced their citizenship annually. For instance, data from the Ministry of External Affairs lists over 85,000 individuals giving up their Indian citizenship in 2020; this figure ballooned to over 225,000 in 2022. Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, mentioned that the choice to emigrate is deeply personal. He emphasized the potential benefits for India by engaging with its diaspora, leveraging the “soft power” of a flourishing overseas community.
Migration is not a new phenomenon. The “brain drain” began to become noticeable for India in the 1970s and 1980s. In his book Secession of the Successful: The Flight Out of New India (2025), economist Sanjaya Baru discusses the economic ramifications, suggesting that this talent flight harms India while benefiting other countries. He points to the recruitment of Indian professionals in various sectors by nations like the US and Gulf states to address workforce shortages. Meanwhile, affluent families are increasingly investing in foreign education and citizenship, seeking better opportunities abroad.
A stark contrast exists between Modi’s optimistic assertions about India’s global stature and the sentiments of those considering emigration. Economic expert Arun Kumar notes that insecurity stemming from growing crony capitalism pushes the wealthy and skilled abroad. “The ultra-high-net-worth individuals, about 40,000 of whom left India in recent years, are seeking better investment climates and security,” he explained.
Unemployment also plays a significant role in this trend. According to a 2023 report from the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy, youth unemployment stood at 45.4% among individuals aged 15-24. This despair, fueled by stagnant rural economies and aspirational visions of wealth elsewhere, has led many to take dangerous migration routes.
Films like Dunki (2023) illustrate these struggles, documenting the perilous journeys many Indians undertake for a chance at a better life. The reality of their migration sometimes involves devastating consequences, such as the deportations of undocumented migrants back to India in distressing conditions.
Critics highlight a deep irony present in the lavish receptions Modi receives from non-resident Indians who left India seeking improved prospects. Political scientist Ajay Gudavarthy observes, “It is ironic that the diaspora that leaves the nation continues to support a regime responsible for the conditions they despise.” This view draws attention to the complex relationship between migration, identity, and political support.
Looking at historical contexts, during India’s independence movement, many capitalists supported the cause financially, but their commitment waned as they began collaborating with foreign interests. Today, numerous Indian business families reside abroad, seeking stability that eludes them in their homeland.
Despite record remittances coming into India—amounting to $129 billion in 2024—this figure pales compared to the estimated $1 trillion income of the Indian diaspora. Observers stress the need to differentiate between genuine investments and round-tripping, where funds pass through tax havens.
As India grapples with these massive outflows, experts urge a reevaluation of the current socio-economic environment. Aakar Patel, a prominent commentator, points out a broader loss of faith in India’s future among the wealthy, highlighting a flight driven by urgency rather than mere opportunity.
Until reforms in education and employment are made, the trend of emigration will likely continue. As the landscape shifts, the need for a supportive environment that retains talent becomes crucial. Building a society that nurtures innovation and entrepreneurial spirit is essential for keeping the best and brightest in India.
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