What Donald Trump needs to understand about Indian labour, migrants

The topic of migration, particularly illegal migration, and the policies surrounding it have come under scrutiny, especially regarding how they affect India and its relationship with the U.S. The issue also touches on economic contributions, talent migration, and trade dynamics between the two countries.

Migration and Middle-Class Morality

• Doolittle’s Irony: In Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion, Alfred P. Doolittle critiques middle-class morality, which is reflected in the diatribes against Indian migrants to the US. His comments draw attention to the hypocrisy of those who once migrated to the US in similar circumstances.
• Historical Perspective on Migration: Historically, migration was a natural process without legal constraints, but the nation-state system introduced the distinction between legal and illegal migrants. This shift over the last century has reshaped the discourse on migration.
• Middle-Class Aspirations: The Indian middle class, which spends resources on securing legal migration for their children, seeks the same opportunities that illegal migrants also desire — a better life in the West. The only difference lies in the means and resources available to achieve this goal.

Legality of Migration and India's Role

• Legal vs. Illegal Migration: While illegal migration to the US may violate US laws, Indian migrants do not break any laws in India. The legality of their actions pertains to the laws of the destination country, not India.
• India’s Economic Contribution: Indian migrants, both legal and illegal, have contributed significantly to the US economy, especially in terms of skilled labor. This has helped power the US economy over decades.
• Trump's Dual Approach to Immigration: President Trump distinguishes between skilled migrants, whom the US needs, and other migrants, creating a selective approach towards immigration that impacts Indians who may not have the resources or connections for legal entry.

Trade, Defence, and Strategic Considerations

• Economic Contributions Beyond Migration: Indians living in the US, as well as those working for US companies in India, have significantly contributed to the US economy. India needs to highlight this in the face of trade disputes, particularly under Trump’s administration.
• India’s Trade Strategy: India must challenge Trump’s trade stance and defend its economic and industrial policies. The emphasis should be on the value that Indians bring to the US economy, rather than being defensive about trade relations.
• Defence Sales vs. Normal Trade: India’s push for “atmanirbharata in defence” is aimed at reducing strategic dependence on external sources. India should not allow trade issues to impact its strategic defence options with the US.

Practice Question:

Q. Discuss the implications of illegal migration on US-India relations. How can India assert its position in the face of challenges posed by the US, particularly under the ‘America First’ policy?