A Critical Appraisal of Cross-Border Migration into India using the Push-Pull Theory

Abstract

Cross-border migration is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by economic, demographic, socio-cultural, political, and miscellaneous factors. The push-pull theory effectively explains this dynamic, highlighting the drivers that compel individuals to leave their home countries—such as poverty, political instability, and environmental crises—and the attractions of destination countries, including economic opportunities, safety, and cultural ties. India, as a prominent South Asian nation, experiences significant migration flows from neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar due to shared cultural heritage, economic growth, and geographic proximity. India manages migration through a robust legal framework, including the Foreigners Act (1946), Passport (Entry into India) Act (1920), and Citizenship Act (1955), which regulate the entry, stay, and departure of foreigners. Undocumented migrants are classified as illegal and subject to deportation or detention, with the Foreigners Tribunal playing a crucial role in determining citizenship in sensitive regions like Assam. However, India also adopts a humanitarian stance, offering protections to groups facing persecution, such as Tibetan and Tamil refugees, and implementing policies like the Citizenship Amendment Act (2019) to provide a pathway to citizenship for religious minorities from neighboring countries. India’s approach exemplifies the balance between national security and humanitarian obligations, underscoring the importance of regulated migration policies that address both push-pull dynamics and ethical responsibilities in a globalized world.