Punjabi Organisation Calls for Support for Deported Youth
Even as a US military aircraft carrying several Indians, who were deported from the US, arrived in Amritsar on Wednesday afternoon, the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) urged the Punjab government to establish a substantial rehabilitation fund to support the young deportees. Reports indicate that 30 out of a total of 104 deported individuals are from Punjab.
Satnam Singh Chahal, executive director of NAPA, highlighted that most deported individuals are young people in their 20s and 30s who often take risks, pressuring their families for funds to immigrate through illegal routes. “The older and more mature US immigration aspirants from Punjab usually explore legal methods,” he stated.
Chahal emphasized the potential social and economic challenges arising from a lack of support for returnees. “Many young individuals return with shattered hopes, financial distress, and psychological trauma, which can lead to unemployment and increased crime,” he cautioned. He proposed that the Punjab government allocate resources for skill development programs, employment opportunities, and mental health counselling to aid in their reintegration.
He also advocated for spreading awareness about safe and legal immigration routes to the US, such as enrolling in higher education or marrying US citizens. “Illegal immigration has always been frowned upon by US authorities, and the risks are not worth it,” Chahal remarked.
In light of the pressing need for support, it is crucial for policymakers to engage with community-based organizations like NAPA to develop comprehensive strategies. This initiative could ultimately help rebuild lives and strengthen Punjab’s social fabric.
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