Reverse Brain Drain Concerns Rise as Indians Seek Better Quality of Life Abroad

Entrepreneur Pooja Setia’s recent LinkedIn post has ignited a national conversation. She shared her personal journey from insisting on staying in India to now urging others to consider moving abroad. Her story reflects a growing sentiment among some urban professionals.Setia cited toxic air, unsafe water, and failing civic infrastructure as key reasons. She argued that basics are becoming privileges in India. This perspective has resonated widely, highlighting deep concerns over quality of life.

From Patriotism to Pragmatism: A Personal Shift

Twelve years ago, Setia’s condition for marriage was simple. She refused to leave India. Her priority was staying close to family in her hometown of Abohar. She never considered lifestyle or financial gains abroad.Motherhood and experience changed her view. She now watches her family rely on allergy medication due to pollution. According to her LinkedIn post, citizens pay high taxes and then pay again for private services.She believes clean air and safe water should not be luxuries. Her conclusion is painful but clear. Sometimes choosing children’s well-being means rethinking earlier certainties.

A Wider Trend Backed by Rising Remittances

This personal story aligns with broader data. India received a record $135.46 billion in remittances in 2024-25. Government data shows this marks a 14% annual increase.The country remains the world’s top recipient of money sent home from abroad. The number of Indians working overseas reached 18.5 million in 2024. This figure has nearly tripled since 1990.Nearly half of these expatriates reside in Gulf nations. The consistent rise in remittances suggests more families have members living and working abroad. This trend underscores the economic dimension of the migration debate.

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The dialogue sparked by Setia shows a complex clash between emotional ties and practical realities. For a growing number, the dream of a better life is increasingly linked to the difficult decision of leaving home.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What are the main reasons Pooja Setia gave for her changed view?

She highlighted toxic air pollution and unsafe drinking water as primary concerns. Setia also pointed to overcrowded cities, poor civic sense, and the high cost of securing basic necessities through private means.

How have people on social media reacted to her post?

Many users identified with her struggle between love for country and practical reality. Some agreed that wanting a healthier environment for children is a responsibility, not a lack of patriotism. Others argued for staying to be part of the solution.

What does the remittance data indicate?

Record remittance inflows suggest a significant and growing number of Indians are working abroad. The 2024-25 figure of $135.46 billion, a 14% rise, supports the observation of increasing migration for economic opportunity.

Where do most Indian emigrants live?

Close to half of the 18.5 million Indians abroad reside in Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Nations like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait are major destinations for Indian workers across various sectors.

Is this trend considered “brain drain”?

While traditionally associated with highly skilled talent, the current discussion includes a broader search for better living standards. It involves professionals and skilled workers seeking improved quality of life, not just career advancement.

Trusted Sources: LinkedIn, Government of India data, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reports.