Why most of the Punjabi’s sell their land and settle abroad ? ; Read to know more

By: Pune Pulse

December 2, 2023

Pune: Punjab, a region with a rich history of migration, is currently witnessing a combination of both reverse migration and immigration.

The influx of wealthy Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Punjabis investing in their homeland suggests a potential for reverse migration, while the younger generation of Punjabis seeking better opportunities and education abroad are often accompanied by their parents.

From 2014 to 2022, official records indicate that a significant number of Punjabis have relinquished their Indian citizenship. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has informed the Rajya Sabha that a total of 28,117 residents from Punjab have voluntarily relinquished their Indian citizenship between 2014 and 2022.

Among the states, Delhi recorded the highest number, with 60,414 passports renounced during this time frame. Additionally, 7,426 individuals from Haryana and 1,904 residents of Chandigarh also renounced their citizenship. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that these decisions were made for personal reasons.

As per the information provided, several senior citizens in different regions of Punjab were selling their properties to relocate abroad, as their children were hesitant to return after obtaining citizenship in a foreign nation. Although not widespread, this trend is noticeable.

What is the reason behind the emergence of a new immigration trend in Punjab?

Despite the assertions made by politicians about Punjab becoming similar to Ontario, London, or California, where a large number of Punjabis reside, the actual situation on the ground appears to be quite distinct.

Punjab, among the Indian states, stands out as one of the most heavily indebted economies. With a per capita debt of Rs 1 lakh, the state’s financial burden is significant. Interestingly, Punjab shares certain financial similarities with Sri Lanka. Notably, the state’s debt-to-GDP ratio currently stands at 53.3 per cent, surpassing the agreed-upon ceiling of 20 per cent set by the Centre and other states in India.

The primary reason why senior Punjabis are moving abroad and have been compelled to sell their properties is growing unemployment in the state, which stands at 8.6 per cent. Parents have been disposing of their properties to send their children abroad for studies and jobs. As this generation of Punjabis is reluctant to come back, they are compelled to move abroad by selling the remaining properties, including houses and land.

As per the information provided, once students obtain permanent residency (PR), they opt to settle abroad along with their parents. According to Singh, these parents willingly sell their properties to reunite with their children and have no intention of returning to their home country.