Indian Migrants to Gulf Countries

Syllabus: International Relations: Diaspora

Source: TH

Context: The article discusses the tragic death of 49 migrant workers in a fire in Kuwait, primarily caused by poor living conditions and employer negligence. It criticizes Kuwait’s inadequate enforcement of worker protections and the Kafala system, which leaves migrants vulnerable by limiting their rights.

What is the Kafala System?

The Kafala system is a sponsorship system used in some Middle Eastern countries, including Kuwait, to regulate the employment of migrant workers. Under this system, a migrant worker’s legal residence and work permits are tied to an individual employer or sponsor (Kafeel). This sponsor has significant control over the worker’s employment and residency status, often leading to situations of exploitation and abuse, as workers may find it challenging to change jobs or leave abusive employers without risking deportation.

Status of Indian Workers in Gulf Countries:

• There are around 8.88 million Indian Workers residing in six Gulf nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain. Indians form the largest expatriate community in the region, constituting approximately 30% of the total expatriate workforce.

• Kerala has been a major contributor to the migrating workforce, but recently, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have seen an increase in migration to the Gulf.

• The migrating workforce primarily consists of individuals aged between 20 and 40, with an increasing participation of women, particularly in the hospitality sector.

• Education levels vary, with many workers having minimal formal schooling or vocational training.

• Around 70% of Indian migrants in the GCC are blue-collar workers, contributing to various sectors in the region.

Diaspora can be a tool for advancing national interests:

• Soft power ambassadors: The Indian diaspora serves as unofficial global ambassadors, showcasing India’s rich culture, diverse languages, and artistic heritage. Bollywood’s international reach, the popularity of festivals like Diwali, and the success of Indian cuisine worldwide are testaments to their soft power influence.

• Bollywood’s international reach, the popularity of festivals like Diwali, and the success of Indian cuisine worldwide are testaments to their soft power influence.

• Knowledge and expertise transfer: India boasts a highly skilled diaspora in fields like technology, medicine, and finance.

• Economic catalysts: India saw the highest amount of remittance inflows in the world in 2023 at USD 125 billion, which are a crucial lifeline for the Indian economy.

• Political lobbying and advocacy: The Indian diaspora actively lobbies for India’s interests in foreign policy issues like trade agreements and international aid distribution.

• Cultural exchange: The diaspora acts as a bridge between India and the world, fostering cultural exchange and networking opportunities. Events like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas strengthen this connection.

• Events like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas strengthen this connection.

Migrant workers in GCC States are vulnerable due to:

• Dependence on Employers: The Kafala system ties visas to employers, leaving workers reliant on them for housing, food, and transportation.

• Low Wages: Workers often earn insufficient wages, leading to financial insecurity.

• Poor Living Conditions: Workers reside in crowded and unsafe accommodations, as seen in the Mangaf fire incident.

• Limited Rights: GCC states prohibit labour organizing, depriving workers of the ability to demand better conditions.

• Family Separation: High minimum salary requirements prevent low-income workers from sponsoring family members, leading to family separation.

• Labour Exploitation: Low-skilled workers face exploitation through withheld pay and inadequate conditions.

• Recruitment Abuses: Agents charge high fees and alter contracts, risking passport confiscation.

• Legal Vulnerabilities: Visa restrictions and the kafala system limit migrants’ rights and expose them to deportation threats.

• Poor Living Conditions: Overcrowded and unsafe accommodations impact migrants’ health.

• Data Gaps: Lack of data hinders addressing migrant issues effectively.

• Legal Hurdles: Complex legal procedures and lack of aid worsen migrants’ plight.

• Cultural Barriers: Language and cultural differences hinder integration and support access.

• Mental Health Struggles: Migration stress leads to mental health issues.

Government Initiatives:

Initiative | Description

Emigration Act | The Emigration Act of 1983 regulates emigration and mandates the registration of recruitment agencies to ensure adherence to emigration procedures.

E-Migrate System | An online platform enabling skilled and semi-skilled workers to obtain emigration clearances and monitor immigration status, preventing exploitation by unregistered agents.

Labor Mobility Partnerships | India has signed agreements with GCC nations to enhance worker protection, covering employment contracts, labour policies, and rights.

Pre-Departure Orientation Programs | PDOS aims to enhance the soft skills of migrants, especially in the Gulf and Malaysia, educating them on destination country culture, laws, and customs.

Indian Community Welfare Fund | ICWF provides financial aid to distressed Indian workers abroad for repatriation, legal assistance, shelter, and medical needs.

Indian Workers Resource Centre | Set up in Dubai and approved for four additional locations, IWRCs offer guidance and counselling on various issues concerning overseas Indian workers.

Awareness Campaign | The ‘Surakshit Jaaye Prasikshit Jaaye’ campaign promotes safe and legal migration among prospective migrants.

Conclusion:

India’s global diaspora presents a unique opportunity for the nation to expand its influence and soft power. While limitations exist, careful navigation and collaboration can transform them into valuable partners in advancing India’s interests, as seen in the institutionalisation of “diaspora diplomacy” under PM Modi.

Insta Links:

• Indian Diaspora: The roots of global success

Mains Link: UPSC 2017

Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in Southeast Asian countries’ economies and societies. Appraise the role of the Indian Diaspora in South-East Asia in this context. (10M)

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Key Phrases: , migrants in Gulf countries