The Migration Trend: Why Bengalis Leave Kolkata in Search of Better Opportunities

Leaving my homeland behind was one of the hardest decisions I ever had to make. Like many Bengalis, I still long for my home in Kolkata, but the reality of migration often outweighs the longing.

Migration Trends Among Graduates and Talented Individuals

One significant factor driving migration from Kolkata is the lack of opportunities for graduates. Most MNCs like Accenture, Cognizant, TCS, Infosys, Capgemini, LTI, and Mindtree provide a steady stream of well-paying jobs. However, there are few such opportunities in Kolkata. The startup ecosystem, while slowly growing, is still nascent. As a result, talented individuals often migrate to cities with more plentiful opportunities.

There is a call to action for the residents of Kolkata and Bengal to foster a more vibrant startup ecosystem. We need a few breakthrough startups to challenge the status quo and provide better opportunities for our talent pool.

Migrating for a Secure Future

A high number of Bengalis migrate from Kolkata for the betterment of their families. Parents send their children to other states or even abroad right after high school, ensuring a secure environment and better educational prospects. Even after completing their degrees, many graduates leave the state to start their careers in more corporate hubs.

This is partly due to the limited corporate sector in Kolkata, which primarily consists of sales offices of FMCG and IT service companies. There are only a handful of 25 to 30 companies in the city, with no new MNCs opening offices here. Moreover, many of the companies offer jobs outside the state during campus placements, compelling fresh graduates to relocate.

For experienced professionals, the situation is even more challenging. Salaries often stagnate after five to six years, making it difficult to improve their quality of life. Many choose to leave the state for better opportunities and career growth.

Pragmatism and Cultural Shifts

Witnessing the violent nature of student politics in Kolkata over the past two decades, many pragmatic Bengali parents prefer to send their children to more secure environments such as Bangalore and Hyderabad. These places offer better placement opportunities and a safer living for the students.

The exodus from Kolkata is not limited to the upper classes. It extends to all walks of life. You will often find Bengalis catering and cooking at weddings and festivals in major cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. The migration trend reflects the broader challenge of retaining talent in Kolkata.

Conclusion

The migration trend among Bengalis is a multifaceted issue arising from the limited opportunities and cultural shifts in Kolkata. While the city holds a special place in many hearts, the reality of the job market and lifestyle differences often compel people to relocate in search of better opportunities and a secured future.

We must support and nurture the local startup ecosystem in Kolkata to reduce the brain drain and retain talent. By fostering innovation and providing a platform for entrepreneurship, we can ensure that Kolkata remains a hub for talent, opportunity, and progress.