Across the globe, Indian expatriates are of unparalleled importance to PM Modi, notably in the Gulf countries. Currently, the Prime Minister is on a diplomatic mission to Kuwait, where a significant Indian diaspora resides. Approximately one million Indians call Kuwait home, integrating into various sectors across the nation. On the first day of his visit, PM Modi toured the Gulf Spic labor camp, where more than 90% of the workforce is Indian, and engaged in conversation with them. He also had a meeting with His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince of Kuwait.
Whenever PM Modi visits Gulf nations, he never misses an opportunity to meet with Indian workers. Numerous instances highlight this, such as his engagement with L&T workers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2016. That same year, he also toured Tata Consultancy's All-Women IT and ITES Center and visited a labor camp in Doha, Qatar.
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Back in 2015, PM Modi visited a worker's camp in Abu Dhabi and articulated India's commitment to the welfare of its expatriate labor force. Engaging with Indian workers in these camps, he explored their challenges and discussed solutions through which the Indian government could offer support.
e-Migrate Initiative: Simplifying Life for Indians Abroad
PM Modi is adamant about ensuring safe, lawful migration. A major step in this direction was the launch of the e-Migrate initiative in 2014, aimed at facilitating the employment-centric migration of Indians. This project has streamlined the recruitment process by allowing authorities access to a database of Indian expatriates, expediting and simplifying migration.
The e-Migrate system is integrated with the Passport Seva Project, making online passport validation seamless. It also incorporates the Overseas Indian Insurance Scheme, simplifying insurance procurement for Indian expatriates. Besides, it is linked with the DG Shipping System, minimizing hurdles at immigration checkpoints and airports for Indians.
Immigration Clearance Required Passport Category
Under Modi's government, the Division of Overseas Employment and Protector General of Immigrants has been bolstered, facilitating easier acquisition of Immigration Clearance Required (ECR) passports for overseas employment. Sixteen Protector General of Immigrants offices have been inaugurated nationwide to expedite these procedures.
Enhancements at the Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre have also been made to address grievances and disseminate information about migration. Additionally, five regional assist centers have been established in Lucknow, Hyderabad, Chennai, Patna, and Kochi to resolve expatriates' complaints.
Efforts to Improve Conditions for Indian Workers
Simultaneously, PM Modi is committed to improving conditions for Indian workers internationally. During his visit to the UAE earlier this year, he announced the UAE's allocation of land in Dubai for the construction of a hospital for Indian workers. Following the tragic fire incident in Kuwait, where over 40 Indian citizens lost their lives, PM Modi convened a review meeting.
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In 2021, India and Kuwait reached an agreement to advance the welfare and rights of Indian workers. This accord ensures improved relations between Indian workers and employers under local laws, reflecting the Prime Minister's commitment to the well-being of Indian workers in Kuwait.
In 2016, PM Modi met with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to discuss the situation of Indian expatriates, resulting in assurances that labor reforms would enhance the conditions for over half a million Indian expatriates. Inspired by the Prime Minister's vision, India has launched campaigns in Gulf countries advocating for higher wages for its workforce.
