In today’s modern era, the aspirations of Indian youth are changing rapidly. One of the most prominent desires is to go abroad to pursue higher education, secure better employment, or settle permanently in a foreign country. This trend is particularly noticeable in rural India, especially in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. Many villages are experiencing a sense of emptiness, and agricultural fields are lying fallow, as the younger generation seeks opportunities first in cities and then abroad. Parents, too, often sell ancestral land and property to fulfil their children’s dreams of going overseas, which has significant social and economic implications for India.
There are several reasons behind this strong desire among Indian youth to go abroad. The primary reason is the belief that a prosperous and respectable life is only possible abroad. Many think that incomes are higher and lifestyles more convenient in foreign countries. This perception is often fuelled by media, social media, and stories from relatives living abroad, which tend to present only a glamorous image. However, the reality is very different. Not everyone going abroad secures a high-ranking position or an impressive job. According to a 2023 United Nations report, approximately 18 million Indians live abroad, many of whom, despite their high skills or education, work in lower-level jobs. For instance, they may work as restaurant servers, taxi drivers, delivery agents, or factory labourers. The irony is that the same jobs are often considered “low status” in India, but abroad, the allure of earning in dollars or pounds makes them seem acceptable. This mindset highlights how external glamour can disconnect youth from their roots, as they chase a life of appearances.
Life abroad is not as simple or attractive as portrayed on social media. Living expenses are high. Data from 2022 indicates that in countries like Canada, a student’s annual cost averages between roughly ₹16–24 lakh, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, and insurance. In addition, rent, insurance, taxes, and healthcare can be extremely expensive. The mental pressure and challenges are significant. Adapting to a new culture and language, living away from family, and coping with loneliness can be mentally exhausting for young individuals. In recent years, countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom have tightened visa regulations for migrant workers. In Canada, 2023 saw an increase in financial requirements for international students. Similarly, the UK has made dependent visa regulations stricter, making permanent residency and family reunification difficult. Surveys indicate that nearly 40% of Indian youth living abroad face mental health issues such as depression and anxiety due to social isolation and financial stress.
Meanwhile, India itself is rapidly developing, and opportunities abound for young people—if they can recognize and utilize them. India boasts the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. By 2023, India had over 100,000 startups, including more than 100 unicorns. These startups provide youth the opportunity to experiment and launch their own ventures. Government initiatives like ‘Startup India’ and the ‘Mudra Scheme’ provide financial support to help turn ideas into reality. Agriculture, too, offers immense potential. Young people can innovate in agriculture-based industries such as organic farming, food processing, and agri-tech. Government programs like the ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’ and ‘Kisan Credit Card’ support farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs. These measures can make villages self-reliant and reduce migration.
India is also the world’s largest IT and BPO hub. There are countless opportunities in IT, digital marketing, e-commerce, and technology. Programs such as ‘Digital India’ and ‘Make in India’ are promoting technological growth, while the ‘Skill India Mission’ equips youth with employable skills. When youth migrate abroad, villages face labour shortages. Agricultural land remains uncultivated or is leased at low productivity. This affects rural economies negatively. Elderly parents face loneliness and insecurity, sometimes forcing them to live in old-age homes. Family ties weaken as children abroad gradually disconnect from their culture and roots. Prolonged exposure to foreign lifestyles can lead youth to adopt Western customs and practices, weakening the preservation of Indian cultural heritage.
The critical question is: is going abroad the only option? If a young person can do menial jobs abroad, why can’t they do the same in their own country? The difference lies only in perspective. With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, India offers a vast market and immense human resources. Real respect and satisfaction come from self-reliance, hard work, and dedication. Youth must understand that the fulfilment of advancing while staying connected to their land cannot be achieved by performing small jobs abroad. Change begins with mindset. Young people should be inspired to use their skills and potential for the progress of their own country. Instead of pursuing dreams alone abroad, they should aim for prosperity while uplifting their villages and society.The government must focus on expanding education, healthcare, and employment opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas. The private sector should be encouraged to invest in these regions as well. Only when India’s youth fully utilize their capabilities on their own soil will the country achieve economic strength along with social and cultural richness.

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