Living Abroad, Spending More: A Study on the Economic Pressure Faced by Indian Diaspora

In an increasingly interconnected world, millions of Indians have chosen to live and work abroad in search of better career opportunities, advanced education, and improved living standards. These Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) contribute significantly to both the global economy and India's economic landscape through remittances and investments. However, behind the apparent financial success lies a complex reality one marked by rising economic pressures and financial commitments. This study aims to address the economic pressures and income and expenditure behavior of 467 Non-Resident Indian from various countries.A well-structured questionnaire has been framed and issued through mail by adopting snowball sampling technique. The collected samples were analysed by using simple percentage, chi-square test and weighted average ranking method. The findings revealed that the most burdening expense for the respondents was house rent, which took up a major share of their income. This was followed by home and host country taxes, adding further financial pressure.The Chi-square test indicates that income level strongly influences the financial pressure and lifestyle adjustments of the Indian diaspora living abroad. Overall, these expenses highlight the economic strain and cost-of-living challenges faced by the respondents.