Decline in Illegal Indian Immigration through the 'Dunki Route'

GS PAPER II – INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

‘DUNKI’: ILLEGAL INDIAN IMMIGRANTS TO THE US FALL SHARPLY – IS THE ‘DUNKI’ ROUTE COLLAPSING?

Primer

The term ‘Dunki route’ refers to the illegal migration pathway often used by Indians to reach the United States through multiple countries, especially via South and Central America. Migrants typically travel from India to nations such as Ecuador, Bolivia, or Guatemala, and then attempt to cross into the US through Mexico with the help of human smugglers or cartels.

In Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported a 62% decline in illegal Indian crossings—down from 90,415 in FY24 to 34,146 in FY25—the lowest figure since 2021.

1. Why Has There Been a Sharp Decline in Illegal Indian Migration to the US?

The major factors behind the decline include:

• Stricter Enforcement: The US administration’s hardline immigration controls have expanded border patrols, fencing, and aerial surveillance.
• Mass Deportations: Since early 2025, around 1,700 Indians have been deported through military and chartered aircraft, discouraging new attempts.
• Quick Repatriation: Enforcement under Title 8 allows expedited deportations, leaving little scope for asylum claims.
• Fear of Public Arrests: Viral videos showing Indians being detained in public places have created strong deterrence on social media.
• Cartel Disruption: Crackdowns on smuggling syndicates across Latin America have weakened major transit networks.

2. What Is ‘Title 8’ and How Does It Affect Illegal Migrants?

Title 8 of the US Code governs immigration and nationality laws. Under this provision, illegal entrants are detained and deported without trial unless they can demonstrate a credible fear of persecution. The use of Title 8 has accelerated deportations and reduced parole releases, leading to a sharp fall in successful illegal entries.

3. How Has the Profile of Indian Migrants Changed?

Most migrants originate from Gujarat (Mehsana, Gandhinagar, Patan), Punjab, and Haryana. They generally belong to middle-income or agrarian families who sell assets or take loans to pay agents promising safe entry into the US. However, many have returned silently after failed attempts, resulting in social distress and economic loss in these regions.

4. What Do Studies Say About the Scale of the Issue?

A Johns Hopkins University (2025) study revealed a fortyfold surge in illegal Indian migration between 2020 and 2023—from about 1,000 to 43,000 individuals in just four years. By 2024, an estimated 7 lakh Indians were living in the US without legal documentation.

5. What Is the Future of the ‘Dunki Route’?

While the Dunki route has not completely disappeared, it faces significant disruption due to global and regional enforcement measures:

• Tighter US Border Policies: Increased risk and cost have discouraged human smugglers and migrants alike.
• Visa Restrictions: Central and South American countries, under US diplomatic pressure, have tightened visa rules for Indian travelers.
• Route Diversion: Smuggling networks are reportedly exploring new corridors toward Canada or Europe.

Overall, the ‘Dunki’ corridor is rapidly shrinking as enforcement, policy coordination, and social awareness combine to deter illegal migration.

Synopsis (75 Words)

Illegal Indian migration to the US has fallen by 62% in FY25, signaling a near-collapse of the ‘Dunki’ route. Stricter US border enforcement, rapid deportations under Title 8, and viral social media coverage have dissuaded potential migrants. Economic and emotional repercussions are evident in Indian source regions. Although smuggling networks persist, the route’s viability is declining rapidly under global scrutiny and bilateral cooperation.