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This paper deals with migration into India from adjoining neighbours and its impact on security and other issues of national interest. Unlike other studies on migration, it focuses on the ethnic identities of migrant populations which exclude a sense of „belongingness‟ to India. The paper does not question conventional wisdom regarding the economic impact of migration on the countries of origin and destination, nor does it debate the magnitude of migration. Rather, it examines implications for India‟s national interest, especially when the migration is illegal and poses multi-layered challenges to the Indian state.
The paper restricts itself to only Nepali and Bangladeshi migrants. The nature of migration from these countries to India has been dissimilar. This is because of their different historical backgrounds, geographical variants, ethno-religious affinities, political systems and bilateral arrangements with India.
The paper looks at various policy options for the government to tackle migration-related issues. It concludes inter alia that, India‟s borders with Bangladesh and Nepal must be regulated and that resident migrants need to be strategically dealt with, keeping in mind age-old relationships with these countries and, more importantly, the nature and construct of our geography.