Introduction
Transnational migration refers to the movement of people across national borders while maintaining active connections—social, economic, and cultural—with their countries of origin. India, being one of the largest sources of emigrants globally, has a long history of transnational migration. Over the years, millions of Indians have migrated to countries in the Gulf, Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and beyond. While migration brings economic benefits such as remittances, it also brings about deep transformations in the social fabric, family dynamics, cultural practices, and even political participation. This report examines the impact of transnational migration on Indian society, drawing upon recent studies and real-life observations.
Objectives of the Study
- To understand the socio-economic impact of transnational migration on Indian families and communities
- To explore how migration shapes identity, gender roles, and intergenerational relationships
- To assess the cultural and political consequences of migration for Indian society
Methodology
This research is based on a review of literature. The report refers to two recent books and four scholarly articles that address different dimensions of migration and its effects on Indian society.
Literature Reviewed
- Rajan, S. Irudaya and Zachariah, K.C. (2019). Emigration and Remittances: New Evidences from Kerala
- Khadria, B. (2018). India Migration Report
- Singh, R. (2020). “Remittances and Social Change in Rural Bihar.” Economic and Political Weekly
- Jain, A. (2022). “Gender and Migration in India: A Review.” Migration Studies
Economic Impact
1. Remittances
One of the most visible benefits of transnational migration is the flow of remittances. According to the World Bank (2023), India is the top recipient of remittances globally, receiving over $100 billion annually. These funds contribute to improved living standards, housing, education, and healthcare for families back home.
2. Local Economic Development
In states like Kerala, Punjab, and Bihar, remittances have led to the development of migrant corridors—regions with better infrastructure, consumer services, and investment in real estate. Small businesses have also flourished due to increased capital from returned migrants.
Social Impact
1. Changing Family Dynamics
Migrants often leave behind spouses, children, or elderly parents. This leads to transformations in family structures. Women often take on decision-making roles in the absence of male members. At the same time, long-distance relationships can strain emotional bonds and contribute to psychological stress.
2. Intergenerational Relationships
Children growing up with a parent abroad may experience identity issues or emotional disconnect. Grandparents often step in as primary caregivers, leading to a generational transfer of values and traditions, but also new tensions.
3. Gender Roles
Female migration is also increasing, especially for caregiving jobs in Gulf countries. However, women often face exploitation, isolation, and legal vulnerabilities. In India, women left behind by migrating husbands gain autonomy but also bear dual burdens of caregiving and economic responsibilities.
Cultural Impact
1. Diaspora Influence
The Indian diaspora actively contributes to the promotion of Indian culture abroad. Migrants maintain religious, linguistic, and cultural ties, often influencing changes in their home communities. Examples include increased celebration of international festivals like Diwali in the US or Onam in the Gulf.
2. Hybrid Identities
Returnees bring back new cultural values, attitudes, and lifestyles. Youth often adopt hybrid identities—combining local traditions with global exposure. This can create both enrichment and cultural conflicts within communities.
Political Impact
1. Electoral Influence
Transnational migration affects electoral behavior, especially in states with high emigration. Political parties cater to migrant families and often promise policies like NRIs’ voting rights or easier remittance procedures.
2. Diaspora Lobbying
Indian diaspora groups abroad have increasingly become politically active. They lobby for Indian interests in foreign countries and have contributed to India’s soft power diplomacy, especially in the US and UK.
Challenges and Concerns
- Brain Drain: Skilled professionals leaving the country affects innovation and workforce quality.
- Dependency: Overreliance on remittances may discourage local entrepreneurship or productive employment.
- Social Alienation: Return migrants may face difficulties in reintegration due to cultural and psychological gaps.
Case Study 1: Kerala
Kerala has one of the highest rates of international migration. According to Rajan and Zachariah (2019), remittances have improved household incomes, education, and health outcomes. However, the state also experiences high social costs like broken families, loneliness among elders, and youth unemployment due to aspiration mismatch.
Case Study 2: Punjab
In Punjab, entire villages are dependent on migration to Canada, UK, and Australia. Houses are built with remittance money, and English-medium education is prioritized to enable further migration. However, agricultural decline and drug abuse are significant concerns, linked indirectly to migration-driven consumerism.
Conclusion
Transnational migration has deeply reshaped Indian society. While it brings economic benefits and global exposure, it also raises important social and cultural challenges. The future lies in creating policies that support migrants’ rights, ensure safe migration, and use diaspora potential for national development. Migration should be seen not just as an economic tool but as a social process that requires inclusive and sensitive governance.
References
- Rajan, S.I. & Zachariah, K.C. (2019). Emigration and Remittances. Orient BlackSwan.
- Khadria, B. (2018). India Migration Report. Routledge India.
- Jain, A. (2022). “Gender and Migration in India: A Review.” Migration Studies.
- Singh, R. (2020). “Remittances and Social Change in Rural Bihar.” Economic and Political Weekly.
- World Bank (2023). Migration and Remittances Factbook.