India is actively working with the Donald Trump administration in the United States to strengthen their ties and avoid a trade war. The return of Indian nationals residing unlawfully in the United States is among one of the key problems now in focus. According to reports, around 18,000 Indian migrants are expected to be sent back to India, though the actual number might be higher due to the difficulty of tracking undocumented individuals. This is regarded as a critical move toward keeping friendly ties with the US administration, which has been bent on blocking illegal migration.
Why is India cooperating on immigration?
It is India's strategic decision to partner with the US on this issue as The Trump administration has been clear about its intention to tackle illegal immigration, therefore India would like to cooperate on this subject to help preserve legitimate migration routes.
The United States has H-1B—a visa program for skilled professionals—as well as student visas; both are crucial for the Indian economy. India aims to protect these vital immigration avenues by helping the United States manage illegal immigration.
India working with the United States on migration is also part of a larger plan. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government has been negotiating partnerships with several countries including Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Israel.
While also tackling illegal immigration, these nations have signed agreements with India to encourage global migration. India is hoping these agreements will provide a balanced migration strategy and therefore prevent the social and economic problems caused by illegal migration.
India too considers this partnership with the United States a means to address other major issues. The Khalistan movement, which calls for a separate Sikh state, is one such issue in hand. By the return of illegal immigrants, the Indian government hopes to reduce support for movements like this that might threaten the stability of the nation. India seeks to stop these movements from growing in power and becoming a more serious threat by working closely with the US.
What are the potential issues?
India's collaboration with the US might help the country improve its relationship with one of the globe's major economies, but there are several possible pitfalls.
One major issue would be the effect of deporting so many Indian immigrants. Not being able to provide appropriate support and materials to the returnees could result in socioeconomic disturbances in India.
India's agreement on labor movement with other countries could also be influenced by its actions with the US. Other nations could be concerned about India's position on migrant workers if they see India working too closely with the US on illegal migration, for instance.