Indians Entering US via Dunki Route Deported

Learn about the Dunki Route, an illegal immigration pathway used to enter foreign countries, its risks, legal implications, and the challenges faced by migrants.

Context: A US military plane carrying 104 Indian deportees landed in Amritsar. Many of them reached the country through multiple countries via a ‘dunki route.’

About Dunki Route

It is a term for the journey migrants take through Latin American countries to reach the US border.
This journey often begins in countries such as Ecuador, Bolivia, or Guyana, known for their relatively easier visa processes for Indian citizens.
Travellers face the treacherous Darién Gap, a forested region between Colombia and Panama, known for its challenges including scarce clean water, dangerous wildlife, and criminal gangs.
After Panama, the route typically passes through Guatemala and into Mexico, with migrants confronting obstacles like fence jumping and river crossings, including the Rio Grande.
The journey can cost between Rs 15 lakh to Rs 70 lakh, involving dealings with human trafficking rings.
Indian agents work in conjunction with traffickers throughout the route to facilitate the journey to the US.
Despite the inherent risks and dangers, many migrants undertake this hazardous journey driven by the hope of achieving the American Dream.

Why do some Indians undergo the hardship of illegal migration?

Lack of Economic Opportunities

Unemployment & Underemployment: Despite economic growth, many Indians, especially in rural areas, struggle to find stable jobs with decent wages.
Even Developed States Face Job Shortages: Illegal migrants often come from economically advanced states like Gujarat and Punjab, where a lack of high-paying jobs pushes people to seek opportunities abroad.

Better Income Prospects Abroad

Higher Wages in Developed Countries: Even low-skilled jobs in countries like the US, Canada, and UK pay significantly higher salaries than many professional jobs in India.
Aspiration for Financial Stability: Many illegal migrants hope to remit money back home and improve their family’s financial situation.

Social & Peer Pressure

Established Migrant Networks: Communities in Punjab and Gujarat have large overseas populations, making migration a social norm.
Family & Peer Expectations: Success stories of relatives abroad create pressure to migrate, often leading people to take illegal routes if legal options are unavailable.

Perception of a Better Life in the West

The “First World Dream”: Many believe that countries like the US, Canada, and Europe offer a better quality of life, education, healthcare, and security.
Influence of Social Media & Films: Western lifestyles, showcased in movies, social media, and news, make migration more desirable.

Legal Migration Barriers & High Costs

Stringent Visa Rules: Many Indians fail to qualify for skilled worker visas, forcing them to take illegal routes.
High Costs of Legal Migration: Student and work visas require significant financial investment, which many cannot afford.