V Muraleedharan, the Minister of State for External Affairs, presented the most recent migration data on Saturday. He emphasized that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains the preferred destination for Indian citizens searching for employment opportunities abroad.

To cater to the increasing mobility of the Indian workforce, the Indian government has taken proactive measures by establishing Overseas Indian Help Centres in key locations such as Dubai, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Kuala Lumpur. These centers have been strategically set up to cater to the evolving needs of the expatriate community. Muraleedharan's comments were communicated through the state news agency Wam on Sunday.

As India's 77th Independence Day approaches on Tuesday, persistent concerns arise about whether the movement of professionals to foreign countries constitutes a 'brain drain' phenomenon that could potentially impede the nation's development. Mr. Muraleedharan's visit to Dubai in January was marked by his recognition of the adventurous spirit of globe-trotting Indians who have embraced the global landscape as their workplace.

While addressing over 1,000 students at the Indian High School in Dubai, he emphasized, “You can work anywhere you like but have India in your heart.”

The term "brain drain," previously applied to Indians educated in India who sought work abroad, has taken on a new connotation. Mr. Muraleedharan emphasized this shift, noting, “We say Indian youth have transformed the whole world into their workplace. So, whether you received your education in India or are studying in Dubai, always uphold the tradition of vasudeva kutumbakam (the world is one family).”

Indian expertise gravitates towards the Gulf region, with 7.93 million Indians residing in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman.