Are there really fewer opportunities in India or are we living in an illusion?
In the past few years, a new trend has rapidly grown in Indian society—the race to send sons and daughters abroad. Sometimes in the name of education, sometimes in the name of employment, and sometimes with the dream of a better life. In many families, this is presented as an achievement. Social media has further accelerated this trend. Going to Canada, Australia, or Europe—these have become the hallmarks of success. Gradually, the perception is developing that if one wants to build a future, one must go abroad.
But the question that needs to be asked seriously is whether there really is a dearth of opportunities in India. Is there no room left for talent in this country? Or are we ourselves underestimating our country’s potential?
India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies today. New opportunities are constantly emerging in technology, industry, services, startups, education, and research. Major global companies are investing in India, employing millions of young people. Young people from small towns and cities are making national and international recognition. In such a scenario, assuming that the future lies only abroad seems premature and premature.
Education is a major reason for going abroad. Many students go abroad believing that education there is better or that there are more opportunities. This may be true in some cases. However, the reality is that many students go abroad simply because they cannot get admission to their desired college or course in India. Competition is fierce, seats are limited, and not everyone can get a place in prestigious institutions. In such a situation, going abroad becomes an option. But making this option a symbol of social prestige is worrying.
Today, the situation has become such that in many places, parents feel pressure to send their children abroad. They strive to show off to relatives, acquaintances, and society that their children are studying or working abroad. Families often send their children abroad even at a cost beyond their means. Despite the burden of education loans, debt, and financial burden, this decision is made solely because it is associated with prestige in society.
Social media has further fueled this trend. The internet displays rosy images of young people living abroad—beautiful cities, luxurious lifestyles, travel, and new experiences. But the struggles behind these images are often obscured. Life abroad isn’t easy. It requires hard work, loneliness, and sometimes even tasks unimaginable in India. But this reality is often hidden behind the images and videos.
The problem isn’t with going abroad. The problem lies in the mindset that equates going abroad with success. Going abroad can be a great opportunity to see the world, gain new education, and experience. Many Indian students pursue higher education abroad, acquiring new technology and knowledge, and later contributing to the country’s development. But when this decision is made as part of a crowd rather than with wisdom, the results can often be disappointing.
India’s greatest strength is its youth. Today’s youth is more aware, educated, and technologically connected than ever before. Startup culture is growing rapidly. Even young people in small towns are dreaming big and working hard to achieve them. In the digital age, opportunities are never as limitless as they once were. Today, it’s possible to work with the world from within India.
We need to empower our children. We need to provide them with an education that empowers them to be self-reliant, develops skills, and empowers them to face life’s challenges. If young people are capable, they can find opportunities anywhere—both in India and abroad. But if success is expected simply by relocating, this approach will not last long.
Society also needs to reconsider its thinking. Going abroad is neither an impossible feat nor the only path to success. Similarly, staying in India is not a failure. Our country has produced talent in every field—science, literature, sports, politics, industry, and technology. Indians have made their mark on many of the world’s major platforms. It all began here.
Another concern is the loss of talent. For years, the issue of “brain drain” has been discussed. However, the situation is changing, and many people are returning with experience abroad. Nevertheless, our youth must maintain faith in our country’s potential. If talented individuals leave, the pace of development could be affected.
The roles of parents, teachers, and society—all three—are crucial here. It’s important to teach children that success isn’t dependent on a specific country. True identity is built on hard work, knowledge, and character. Going abroad for education and experience is a good thing, but making a decision solely for show or due to social pressure can often prove costly.
Today, a balanced perspective is needed. We must teach our youth that the world is open, and opportunities abound everywhere, but we must not underestimate the strengths and potential of our own country. India is not just a country, but a vast land of possibilities. There are both challenges and opportunities here. The only difference is perspective.
If we raise our children to be capable, confident, and hardworking, nothing can stop them from moving forward—whether they stay in India or go abroad. But if we continue to make decisions simply by following the crowd, we may be undermining our own self-confidence.
Going abroad may be an option, but it shouldn’t be the goal. The goal should be competence, self-reliance, and a meaningful life. When this mindset becomes stronger in society, perhaps the blind race to send people abroad will slow down on its own.
