The Reddit thread has clearly struck a chord with many NRIs, offering a nuanced perspective on the complex reasons why some Indians abroad choose to remain settled in their host countries
In a thought-provoking Reddit post, a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) living in the UK asked fellow Indians settled abroad what keeps them from returning to India, reported republicworld.com.
The post has since gone viral, garnering a wide range of responses from the global Indian diaspora.
Many Indians have migrated to countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Singapore in search of better career opportunities, financial stability, and an improved quality of life. While some NRIs often express their longing for home, family, and cultural events, this post sheds light on the factors keeping them from coming back.
The original post questioned, “For those who have settled abroad—what’s stopping you from returning?” The user, who has made the UK his home, listed key reasons like strong infrastructure, an improved work-life balance, a judgment-free society, and a lower crime rate that influenced his decision to stay.
The post also highlighted emotional ties. Some users admitted that family and cultural connections remain major reasons for returning to India eventually, while others cited pollution, healthcare, and the difficulty in maintaining a healthy work-life balance as obstacles to reintegration
The post sparked a flood of responses, with many NRIs sharing similar sentiments. Some pointed out that financial security plays a crucial role in their decision to remain abroad. Others noted the superior infrastructure, efficient public transportation, and overall civic responsibility that set their host countries apart from India. One user commented on how clean air, water, and food, coupled with lower corruption levels, significantly improve their quality of life abroad.
Several respondents contrasted the well-maintained infrastructure and rule-abiding behavior in foreign countries with India’s challenges, such as poor road conditions, unreliable utilities, and a lack of civic sense. As one user explained, “We pay taxes abroad, but the services we receive improve our quality of life. In contrast, infrastructure and governance issues are common in India.”
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