Why Are So Many Indian Engineers and Workers Leaving India for Better Opportunities Abroad?

In recent years, a growing number of Indians, particularly engineers and middle-class workers, have expressed a strong desire to leave the country in search of better prospects abroad. The sentiment, often encapsulated in the dream of ‘living overseas,’ resonates with many who feel disillusioned by systemic challenges at home. But what drives this mass exodus of talent and ambition? From high taxes with little return to outdated education systems and poor quality of life, the reasons are multifaceted and deeply rooted in structural issues. This article explores the top reasons why Indian professionals are packing their bags and seeking greener pastures overseas.

1. High Taxes with Minimal Public Services

One of the primary grievances among Indian citizens is the heavy tax burden with little to show for it. Indians pay a variety of taxes, including income tax, Goods and Services Tax (GST), fuel tax, road tax, and toll tax. Yet, the return on these contributions often falls short. Many cities struggle with broken roads, unreliable public transport, slow government services, and inadequate sanitation. This disconnect between taxation and tangible benefits leaves many feeling frustrated and undervalued, prompting them to look for countries where tax money translates into better infrastructure and services.

2. Dismal State of Public Healthcare

Public hospitals in India are often plagued by issues such as dirty facilities, outdated equipment, understaffing, and long waiting times. Despite paying taxes that should fund accessible healthcare, many are forced to turn to expensive private hospitals for adequate treatment. This financial strain, coupled with the stress of unreliable medical services, pushes skilled workers and engineers to seek countries with robust public healthcare systems where their well-being is prioritized.

3. Food Safety Concerns and Regulatory Failures

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is tasked with ensuring safe food for citizens, but many believe it falls short of its mandate. Sugary cold drinks, chemically-laden packaged foods, and other harmful products are widely available and often approved for consumption. For professionals who value health and safety, the lack of stringent food safety regulations becomes another reason to consider relocation to countries with stricter oversight and healthier food options.

4. An Outdated Education System Failing to Prepare Students

India’s education system has been criticized for its outdated syllabi, lack of practical knowledge, and minimal focus on real-world skills or soft skills training. Many engineering graduates find themselves unprepared for the job market, often needing to invest additional time and money in online courses or certifications to become employable. Reports, such as those from McKinsey, have highlighted that only a fraction of Indian engineers are truly job-ready upon graduation. This systemic gap drives many to pursue education or careers abroad, where modern curricula and skill-based training are more accessible.

5. Inadequate Public Transport and Infrastructure

Overcrowded trains, delayed buses, broken roads, and incessant traffic are daily struggles for many Indians. Despite a growing population, the public transport infrastructure has not kept pace, leading to inefficiencies and frustration. For professionals who value time and convenience, the promise of efficient transport systems in countries like the US, Canada, or European nations becomes a significant pull factor.

6. Corruption and Inefficient Governance

Corruption remains a pervasive issue in many government offices, where even basic tasks like obtaining a passport or driver’s license can involve delays or bribes. Slow, inefficient, and sometimes rude administrative processes add to the daily struggles of citizens. This lack of transparency and accountability often motivates skilled workers to seek environments abroad where governance is more streamlined and fair.

7. Lack of Support for Startups and Innovation

Entrepreneurial minds in India often face significant hurdles, including difficulty in securing funding, lack of mentorship, and excessive bureaucratic red tape. Many innovative thinkers and engineers find it easier to build their futures in countries that offer robust support for startups, fostering creativity and business growth. This brain drain of talent to Silicon Valley and other global tech hubs is a testament to the lack of conducive ecosystems at home.

8. Declining Quality of Life

Despite paying substantial taxes, many Indians grapple with polluted air, dirty streets, noisy cities, and rising crime rates. The quest for peace, safety, and a healthier environment drives professionals to seek better living conditions abroad. Countries with cleaner environments, safer communities, and a higher standard of living become attractive destinations for those disillusioned by the challenges of urban life in India.

9. Poor Work-Life Balance

Long working hours, often stretching to 10-12 hours a day across six-day workweeks, leave little room for personal time or family life. Coupled with low savings and high stress, this lack of work-life balance is a significant concern for Indian workers. In contrast, many countries abroad offer better salaries, job security, and policies that prioritize employee well-being, making relocation an appealing option for engineers and other professionals.

10. Falling Purchasing Power and Rising Costs

Inflation and rising costs of essentials like petrol and groceries have eroded the purchasing power of many Indians. As prices climb, salaries often fail to keep up, leaving professionals struggling to maintain a decent standard of living. This economic pressure, combined with the promise of better financial stability abroad, fuels the desire to emigrate.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The reasons behind the growing trend of Indian engineers and workers leaving the country are complex and deeply intertwined with systemic issues. From inadequate infrastructure and outdated education to poor quality of life and economic challenges, the push factors are numerous. While the allure of better opportunities, higher salaries, and improved living conditions abroad is undeniable, it also highlights the urgent need for reforms at home. Addressing these concerns could help retain talent and transform India into a destination where dreams are built, not just a place to leave behind. For now, the trend of migration continues, as many seek to fulfill their aspirations in foreign lands.