According to the information provided by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the number of Indian citizens renouncing their Indian citizenship has shown an increasing trend over the last few years. The MEA shared the data in response to Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 29 raised on 21st July 2023, pertaining to the topic of “Renunciation of Indian Citizenship.”
As per the statement presented in the Lok Sabha, the number of Indian citizens who relinquished their citizenship stood at 85,256 in 2020, 1,63,370 in 2021, 2,25,620 in 2022, and 87,026 until June 2023.
In contrast, the figures were comparatively lower in the preceding years:
- 1,22,819 in 2011
- 1,20,923 in 2012
- 1,31,405 in 2013
- 1,29,328 in 2014
- 1,31,489 in 2015
- 1,41,603 in 2016
- 1,33,049 in 2017
- 1,34,561 in 2018
- 1,44,017 in 2019
In response to part (b) of the question, the MEA furnished a list of countries whose citizenship had been adopted by individuals who relinquished their Indian citizenship during this period. The details of this list are available in an annexure provided by the MEA.
The data provided in the Annexure indicates that Indians have acquired citizenship in a total of 135 different countries (from Albania to Zimbabwe). Among the notable and major countries where Indians have acquired citizenship, some include the United States (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, Australia, Germany, and Singapore. These countries represent diverse opportunities in education, employment, and a high standard of living, attracting Indian nationals seeking better prospects and experiences abroad.
The list also comprises a wide range of nations, spanning various continents, each offering unique cultural experiences and economic opportunities for those who have chosen to become citizens.
The question (c) raised whether the current number of Indians giving up their citizenship was the highest in twelve years. While the MEA acknowledged the increase, the reasons for the rise were not explicitly mentioned in the statement.
Furthermore, question (d) inquired about the correlation between Indians giving up their citizenship and India’s rising global stature. The statement from the MEA acknowledged the significant number of Indian nationals exploring global opportunities and choosing foreign citizenship for personal convenience.
The statement mentioned that the government is conscious of this trend and has implemented various initiatives focused on “Make in India” to harness the talents of Indians in the country. Additionally, the government has promoted skills and startups to take advantage of the contemporary knowledge economy. It further stated that the Indian community abroad is viewed as an asset to the nation, and the government is actively engaging with the diaspora for national gain.
Lastly, question (e) inquired whether the government had plans to implement measures to reduce the relinquishment of citizenship. The MEA stated that the government’s efforts are directed towards encouraging the exchange of knowledge and expertise with the diaspora to contribute to India’s national development.
