Children
Abroad…
Parents
Alone!
Families separated by distance…
The hidden human cost of overseas migration?
Behind the Dollars… The Story of Lonely Parents
For many families, parents once represented the entire world of their children. They sold property, borrowed money, made sacrifices and invested everything in their children’s education and future.
When their children moved to countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the Gulf region, many parents believed that their children’s success abroad would eventually bring a better life for the entire family.
The children built new lives abroad. Their parents remained behind — often living alone in their hometowns or cities.
A video call may bring a familiar face to the screen, but when illness strikes, who takes them to the hospital? Who stands beside them during an emergency? Who helps with everyday responsibilities? And who is there when loneliness becomes overwhelming?
31,676
Emigration Clearances…
But What Happened to Their Families?
Between 2020 and June 30, 2022, official data recorded 18,275 Emigration Clearances in Andhra Pradesh and 13,401 in Telangana for private employment in ECR countries.
Together, the two states recorded 31,676 Emigration Clearances .
This figure should not be interpreted as the total number of Telugu people who moved abroad. It represents Emigration Clearances for the applicable category only.
The Questions That Need Answers…
Is Sending Money Enough?
Children living abroad may send thousands of rupees to their parents every month. But when a mother falls ill and needs to be taken to a hospital, who will be there?
If an elderly father falls at home, who will take him to the hospital? Who will help with banking, pension matters and government services?
If financial support is a responsibility, isn’t human companionship a responsibility too?
While Children Build Their Futures Abroad…
Parents Should Not Be Forgotten at Home.
This is not a story intended to blame children who move abroad. Overseas migration is a reality for millions of families seeking better opportunities. But alongside financial support, elderly parents may also need companionship, care, medical assistance and someone who is physically present.
We count the number of people
moving abroad…
But do we count the parents
waiting for them back home?
— PAWAR VARTHA SPECIAL INVESTIGATION