News Excerpt:

The UAE-based organisation Huntr has conducted a study that has underscored several significant trends regarding the workforce migrating from India. 

Key Highlights of the report:

Findings:

• Change in Contributors: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have emerged as the leading contributors, whereas Kerela has experienced a 90% drop in migration. 
• Despite the decline in migration from Kerala, there has been a 50% increase in the overall blue-collar Indian workers relocating to GCC countries in the first seven months of 2023.
• Top Sending States: According to the study, the top five states sending workers to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Kerala, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu. 
• Preferred Destinations: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman remain favoured destinations.
• The migrating workforce typically falls within the age bracket of 20-40 years.
• While male workers have historically dominated migration, there has been a notable rise in the participation of women, especially in sectors such as hospitality.
• Educational Background and Skills: The educational qualifications of the migrating workforce vary widely, ranging from minimal formal education and vocational training to skilled and trained workers.
• Socioeconomic Background: Most migrant workers come from low-income families and aspire to enhance their financial situations through job opportunities.
• According to the report, blue-collar workers' challenges mostly relate to financial and contractual issues.

Government Initiatives: 

• Both the Indian and the UAE governments have initiatives to enhance the legal rights and working conditions of migrant blue-collar workers. Both countries are diligently addressing issues to ensure fair recruitment practices. It is essential to eliminate middlemen and foster transparency to counter workers' vicious cycle of problems.