#NewsBytesExplainer: Why are more and more Indians renouncing citizenship?
What's the story
Over six lakh Indians have renounced their citizenship in the last five years, according to data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The ministry said that 40% of them have given up their citizenship and settled in the United States (US). Indians in Australia and Canada came next in the number of renunciation requests. Here are more details.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Dual citizenship isn't permitted in India. So, obtaining citizenship from another nation inevitably results in the loss of Indian citizenship. The reasons differ significantly between countries and socioeconomic and ethnic groupings. As per Global Wealth Migration Review, people around the world generally leave their country of birth for better work and living conditions, while some are forced away by unfavorable climate and political events.
United States
US, the top destination for Indians
As mentioned earlier, the United States was the most desired destination for Indians who renounced their citizenship, per authorities. In 2021, too, the US citizenship was the top choice for such Indians. Of the 1.63,370 people who gave up Indian citizenship in 2021, 78,284 picked the US as their adoptive nation. Other popular options included Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Italy.
Factors
Reason for renouncing citizenship
According to The Indian Express, the reasons differ greatly among countries and groups. People generally leave their nations in search of better possibilities due to poor conditions at home. Some senior Indians have been leaving to live with their family that has moved abroad. In certain high-profile situations, those who leave India may be escaping the law or fearing legal punishment for suspected misdeeds.
Experts speak
Paradigm shift in India's diasporic movement post-independence: Experts
As per experts, India's global diasporic movement saw a complete shift post-independence. According to Dr. Atanu Mohapatra, a professor at the Central University of Gujarat's Centre for Diaspora Studies, the post-Independence diasporic community has been going out of India for jobs and higher education. By contrast, the pre-Independence diasporic movement was completely different, where people were forced into labor in other countries, he said.
Report
What does the Global Wealth Migration Review say?
Meanwhile, the MEA informed Parliament that Indians abandoned their citizenship "for reasons personal to them. However, the Global Wealth Migration Review 2020 said that residents across the world, including India, give up their citizenship for a variety of reasons, especially adverse economic, political, and climate conditions. It also listed the safety, better healthcare for families, and educational opportunities for children, among other reasons.
Details
How people selected certain countries
According to the survey, Indians often select the nation based on where their family and friends live since the paperwork is easier for them and the atmosphere is inviting. It said some nations, such as Australia, are popular among high-earning professionals, unlike the US. Australia may have been a top pick in part because English is the spoken language and due to its healthcare.