Over 200K Indians Renounced Citizenship in 2024, Reveals Government

Over 200K Indians renounced citizenship in 2024, continuing a rising trend since 2020. Data from the government highlights a peak of 2.25 lakh in 2022, with earlier figures significantly lower. While motivations remain personal, the government recognizes the diaspora’s vital role in enhancing India’s global influence through networks and soft power. With 3.43 crore overseas Indians, including NRIs and PIOs, the government is fostering strong ties to leverage their expertise, ensuring mutual benefits and strengthening India’s global presence.

In a significant revelation, more than 2.06 lakh Indians gave up their citizenship in 2024, according to figures presented by the government in the Lok Sabha on Friday. Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, shared these statistics in a written response to Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, who sought details on how many individuals had renounced their Indian citizenship over the past five years.

A Rising Trend in Citizenship Renunciation

The data indicates a steady increase in the number of Indians opting for foreign citizenship. While 85,256 individuals renounced their Indian citizenship in 2020, the numbers surged to 1,63,370 in 2021, peaked at 2,25,620 in 2022, and slightly dropped to 2,16,219 in 2023 before settling at 2,06,378 in 2024.

For context, these numbers are significantly higher compared to figures from earlier years. For instance, 1,22,819 Indians renounced their citizenship in 2011, followed by 1,20,923 in 2012, 1,31,405 in 2013, and 1,29,328 in 2014.

Reasons Behind the Decision

While the exact motivations behind renouncing Indian citizenship are not officially recorded, Singh emphasized that these decisions are deeply personal and vary from individual to individual.

However, he highlighted the government’s commitment to leveraging the global opportunities created by a knowledge-driven economy. Singh noted that the diaspora plays a critical role in boosting India’s influence on the international stage, contributing through networks, expertise, and cultural soft power.

Government's Engagement with the Diaspora

Acknowledging the valuable contributions of overseas Indians, Singh stated that the government has adopted a transformative approach to engage with the diaspora. Strategic efforts are being made to capitalize on their knowledge and expertise to benefit India.

He further pointed out that a thriving and influential diaspora not only strengthens India’s global presence but also creates avenues for collaboration in various sectors.

The Global Indian Community

The government also shared data on the size of the Indian diaspora, revealing that there are 3.43 crore overseas Indians globally. This includes 1.71 crore Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and 1.71 crore Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).

A Complex Phenomenon

The rising trend of citizenship renunciation reflects a complex interplay of personal aspirations, professional opportunities, and global mobility. While the reasons remain personal, the government continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining strong connections with the Indian diaspora, recognizing their potential to contribute to both India and their adopted countries.

This ongoing engagement underscores India’s focus on fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with its global community, ensuring that the spirit of Indianness thrives across borders.