In an effort towards safeguarding the welfare and interests of Indian workers abroad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Union Minister of Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya launched the e-Migrate portal and mobile app in Delhi.
This initiative underscores the Indian government’s commitment to creating safer, transparent, and inclusive mobility channels for its labour force.
On Monday (Oct 14, 2024) at the launch event, Jaishankar described the e-Migrate portal as a “beacon of hope,” highlighting its role in protecting the rights and dignity of Indian workers in foreign lands. He stated, “The launch of the e-migrate portal, V2.0, is a testament to our continuing efforts to create a safer, more transparent, and inclusive mobility for Indian labour.” This digital platform is designed to enhance the ease of living and reflect the government’s commitment to people-centric governance.
Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to raise awareness about safe and legal migration channels, particularly referencing the commemorative postal stamp with the motto “Surakshit Jaayen, Prashikshit Jaayen,” which translates to “Go safe, go well trained.” He stated that this initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 10, which advocates for orderly and responsible migration.
The e-Migrate portal not only aims to improve transparency in the migration process but also addresses the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers. Jaishankar acknowledged these challenges, stating, “While we recognize the invaluable contributions of our migrant workers to India’s economy and global reputation, we must also acknowledge the vulnerabilities that they face in foreign lands.” To address these concerns, the revamped portal includes 24×7 multilingual helpline numbers to assist workers facing urgent issues, as well as a feedback mechanism for continuous improvement.
The portal is part of a broader effort to strengthen India’s mobility ecosystem. Jaishankar noted, “In the last decade, our passport issuance has almost doubled,” indicating the growing recognition of a global workplace. The government’s proactive approach facilitates not only workers traveling abroad but also students and expatriates residing overseas, ensuring their welfare is a central objective of foreign policy.
Technological advancements are at the forefront of the e-Migrate initiative. Jaishankar highlighted the Ministry of External Affairs’ efforts to leverage technology to enhance the portal’s efficiency, noting that an MoU with the Common Services Centre (CSC) will enable immigration services to be delivered in regional languages across India. “This is very much measured towards people-centric and ease of living goals,” he stated.
One of the most significant enhancements is the integration of the e-Migrate portal with Digilocker, allowing users to securely store and submit important documents electronically. This paperless approach simplifies the process of obtaining clearances, making it more efficient for workers to access the necessary services.
The government has also taken steps to broaden the social security net for immigrants. The e-Migrate portal will facilitate access to insurance policies and includes arrangements with the State Bank of India for digital payment services with zero transaction charges. This holistic approach aims to provide comprehensive support to Indian workers abroad.
Another key feature of the e-Migrate initiative is the creation of a one-stop authentic marketplace for job opportunities. Jaishankar pointed out the importance of this resource, emphasizing that it aligns with the modern world where information is readily accessible. The accompanying mobile app, developed for the first time, ensures that job seekers can find opportunities at their fingertips.
As the e-Migrate portal rolls out, Jaishankar reiterated the government’s commitment to creating safe and legal migration channels.
The launch of the e-Migrate portal marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward transparent and inclusive labour mobility. By addressing the complexities of international migration through technology and collaboration, the government is not only safeguarding its workforce but also paving the way for economic growth and social development. This initiative signifies a new chapter in India’s approach to labour mobility, emphasizing the need for a secure, well-informed, and supported workforce abroad.