Cross-border mobility in South Asia and GCM: Exploring the factors driving Indian migration to Nepal and analysing the challenges faced by labour migrant

Abstract

India-Nepal migration is attributed to ancient ties and treaties. Open and free border agreement of 1950, facilitates the only VISA free border crossing in South Asia. The migration of citizens between the two countries are witnessing a rising trend in recent times, 2011 (around 0.71 million) in both directions. A field survey on Indian labour migrants working in various sectors of Nepal was carried out to understand the factors driving migration of people from India to Nepal, through an extensive thematic analysis. Findings highlight Indian labourers are driven to Nepal by a combined effect of compelling and attracting factors operating together. The operational factors highlight advance payment and the contractor plays an essential role in bringing of Indian labour migrants to Nepal. The current study found that compelling factors dominate over attracting factors, and labour migrants seek migration in order to achieve subsistence livelihood and family well-being. Indian migrants reportedly encounter substantial challenges along with economic opportunities in Nepal. Housing, healthcare, and exploitation, which were extreme during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, considering the guidelines and objectives of the Global Compact for Migration, the current study examines the drivers of migration and level of challenges. The study direct towards a comprehensive intergovernmental dialogue on the issue of labour migrant welfare, to minimise the challenges of labour migrants.