Population figures
Total country population
1,441,719,852
Forcibly displaced population
Refugees (under UNHCR's mandate):
257,497
Asylum-seekers:
12,427
IDPs (of concern to UNHCR):
0
Other people in need of international protection:
0
Other
Statelessness persons
0
Host community
0
Others of concern to UNHCR
0
Country context
India hosts refugees and asylum seekers from a number of nationalities, including Sri Lanka, Tibet, Myanmar, Afghanistan, and other countries. While India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, it continues to offer protection to refugees under its own legal frameworks. Refugees in India are typically classified as "foreign nationals" and are subject to the provisions of laws such as the Foreigners Act, the Registration of Foreigners Act, and the Citizenship Act. Although these legal instruments provide a basis for the treatment of refugees, India does not have a dedicated national asylum law.
The treatment of refugees varies depending on their nationality. Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans receive protection and assistance directly from the government, while other refugees, particularly those registered with UNHCR, face limitations in accessing full rights and services due to the absence of official documentation. Asylum seekers, especially those from Myanmar and Afghanistan, are subject to irregular entry and stay regulations, which may result in penal actions, including arrest or detention.
...Refugees in India are primarily located in urban areas and informal settlements. The living conditions are challenging, with many refugees working in the informal economy to meet basic needs. Refugees generally do not have access to government welfare programs due to their lack of legal status, though they receive basic health and education services.
India's legal framework on statelessness remains under development. The ongoing National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise in Assam has raised concerns for individuals excluded from the list, although the process is currently on hold. The treatment of stateless individuals, particularly in regions like Assam, remains a key issue of concern.
In terms of solutions, India has made progress in facilitating third-country resettlement and complementary pathways for refugees, though opportunities remain limited. The government has also supported voluntary repatriation programs, particularly for refugees from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. A comprehensive solutions strategy is being implemented for Sri Lankan refugees, with ongoing collaboration between the government, UNHCR, and other stakeholders.
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