SRINAGAR: India reaffirmed its status as the world’s leading recipient of remittances in 2023, with millions of Indian workers abroad sending home substantial financial support, according to the latest government data. With around 15 million Indian nationals living and working overseas, the country continues to benefit from a thriving migrant workforce, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that over 9.3 million Indians reside in GCC countries, with the United Arab Emirates (3.89 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.64 million) hosting the largest numbers. Despite making up a smaller percentage of overall Indian migrants, workers from Kerala accounted for around 4.4 per cent of those migrating to the GCC in 2024.
The World Bank’s Migration and Development Brief 2023 confirmed India’s position as the top remittance-receiving country, with inflows surpassing those of any other nation. The massive financial contributions from the diaspora have played a crucial role in bolstering the country’s economy, particularly in rural households that depend on these earnings for their livelihood.
To safeguard the welfare of Indian workers abroad, the government has implemented several initiatives, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY), which provides insurance cover of Rs 10 lakh for emigrants to 18 countries, and the Pre-Departure Orientation & Training (PDOT), which equips migrants with essential skills. Additionally, Indian Missions abroad have been actively addressing labour grievances, with more than 3.5 lakh Indians receiving assistance through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) since 2014.
With the government prioritising the safety and well-being of Indian nationals overseas, efforts continue to strengthen support mechanisms, address worker grievances, and enhance diplomatic engagement to ensure better conditions for the country’s vast migrant workforce.
