Permanent Mission of India
New York
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Second International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) as part of the General Debate (Plenary)

Statement by Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, Permanent Representative
May 7, 2026

Madame President,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Namaskaar.

It is my privilege to address this plenary session on behalf of India, at the second IMRF of the Global Compact for Migration.

2. As home to one of the world’s largest and dynamic diaspora of over 34 million, and a leading recipient of global remittances, India is witness to how migration can transform lives, communities, and economies.

3. Our approach to migration governance is anchored in a holistic and pragmatic framework, guided by the core operational principles of protection of migrants comprehensive governance across the migration lifecycle and strong international cooperation.

4. Digitalization, which is the central pillar of this framework, led by the eMigrate platform, has significantly enhanced transparency and accountability in recruitment since its launch in 2015.

5. Consular protection has also been strengthened through the MADAD grievance redressal portal and Migrant Resource Centres. Our Passport Seva online portal further ensures timely and accessible services for Indian citizens overseas and at home.

6. India has also undertaken extensive initiatives to support its nationals abroad. The Indian Community Welfare Fund has provided emergency assistance, legal support, and repatriation services to Indian nationals, since its inception in 2009.

7. In line with our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of positioning India as a global hub for skilled talent, we have strengthened skilling initiatives and expanded pre-departure orientation to equip migrants with essential knowledge, including their rights and cultural awareness of the host country.

8. Excellencies, I would like to highlight that India has concluded comprehensive bilateral mobility agreements and MoUs with 23 countries, and is pursuing several more, to create sustainable pathways for fair and ethical mobility. This is the key to ensure migrant welfare through safe and regular migration pathways.

Excellencies,

9. Migration is ultimately about people, their aspirations, resilience, and contributions. Our endeavour is to build an inclusive, humane, and future-ready framework, while addressing challenges such as irregular migration, trafficking, and gaps in social protection.

10. As we look ahead, our progress on migration and mobility remains anchored to stronger international cooperation and India stands committed to partnering with all stakeholders to advance the GCM objectives.

Thank you.