Which country has the least Indian population? This question might seem intriguing, especially considering the vast diaspora of Indian citizens spread across the globe. However, the answer to this question can be quite surprising, as it highlights the diverse distribution of Indian expatriates worldwide. In this article, we will explore the country with the least Indian population and the factors contributing to this unique situation.
The country with the least Indian population is, surprisingly, Norway. With a population of around 5.3 million, Norway has a relatively small number of Indian citizens. This may seem counterintuitive, given the country’s proximity to India and its vibrant expatriate communities in neighboring countries like the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. However, there are several reasons why Norway has such a low Indian population.
Firstly, Norway’s immigration policies play a significant role in the low Indian population. The country has a selective immigration system that prioritizes highly skilled workers and family reunification. This means that the number of Indian citizens migrating to Norway is limited, as the focus is on attracting professionals with specific skill sets. Moreover, the application process for Norwegian visas is quite stringent, making it challenging for Indian citizens to secure a place in the country.
Secondly, the cost of living in Norway is among the highest in the world. This can be a deterrent for Indian citizens looking to migrate, as it may not be financially feasible for them to establish themselves in the country. The high cost of housing, healthcare, and education can make Norway an unattractive destination for many Indian expatriates.
Furthermore, the cultural and linguistic barriers also contribute to the low Indian population in Norway. While Norway has a multicultural society, the language barrier can be a significant challenge for Indian citizens looking to integrate into the local community. Learning Norwegian can be time-consuming and expensive, which may discourage some from settling in the country.
In contrast, countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada have large Indian populations due to historical and socio-economic factors. These countries have been popular destinations for Indian immigrants over the years, with various factors such as job opportunities, family ties, and cultural similarities contributing to their large Indian communities.
In conclusion, the country with the least Indian population is Norway, primarily due to its selective immigration policies, high cost of living, and cultural and linguistic barriers. This unique situation highlights the diverse and complex nature of global migration patterns and the factors that influence them. While Norway may not be the first country that comes to mind when considering Indian expatriates, it serves as a fascinating example of how immigration policies and socio-economic factors can shape the distribution of a particular ethnic group across the globe.
