Introduction
Refugee and Migration NGOs in India are vital in supporting India’s long-standing role as a safe haven for refugees and migrants from neighboring countries and beyond, including Tibetans, Sri Lankans, Afghans, Rohingyas, and others who have sought shelter within its borders, particularly in states like Delhi, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Despite its humanitarian tradition, these displaced individuals often face significant hurdles such as lack of legal recognition, restricted access to education and healthcare, poor living conditions, and economic insecurity due to bureaucratic challenges and social stigma.
These NGOs respond by providing protection, legal aid, education, healthcare, and livelihood support, working to integrate migrants and refugees into society.
Through partnerships with government agencies, international organizations like UNHCR, and local communities, Refugee and Migration NGOs in India address these complex issues with compassion and innovation. This blog highlights the top 10 NGOs in India focused on refugee and migration issues, with Unessa Foundation playing an active role in this vital humanitarian effort.
Top 10 Refugee and Migration NGOs in India
01
The UNHCR India (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees – Partner NGOs)
Works closely with local NGOs in India to provide protection, asylum assistance, and livelihood opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers.
Why it matters
Coordinates global and local efforts for refugee support.
02
MARG (Multiple Action Research Group)
Provides legal empowerment to marginalized groups, including refugees and migrants, ensuring access to justice and basic rights.
Why it matters
Strengthens legal protection for displaced populations.
03
Bosco Organisation for Social Concern and Operation (BOSCO)
Based in Bengaluru, BOSCO offers shelter, vocational training, and education to migrants and displaced children.
Why it matters
Empowers young refugees with skills and safety.
04
The Other Media
Focuses on refugee rights, particularly Sri Lankan Tamils, through advocacy, legal aid, and community support.
Why it matters
Addresses specific ethnic refugee needs effectively.
05
ActionAid India
Works with vulnerable migrant workers and refugees to provide food security, shelter, healthcare, and education.
Why it matters
Offers comprehensive support for diverse displaced groups.
06
Don Bosco Refugee Services
A faith-based initiative offering protection, skills development, and resettlement support for refugees in India.
Why it matters
Provides spiritual and practical assistance to refugees.
07
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) India
Dedicated to serving refugees and migrants, particularly in Tamil Nadu, with education, advocacy, and psychosocial support.
Why it matters
Enhances mental health and educational access for refugees.
08
Refugee Welfare Association
An NGO focusing on the welfare of refugees and asylum seekers by providing healthcare, education, and livelihood aid.
Why it matters
Ensures holistic well-being for displaced individuals.
09
Centre for Migration and Inclusive Development (CMID)
Advocates for the rights of migrant workers and displaced populations, promoting dignity and inclusion.
Why it matters
Fosters inclusive policies for migrant communities.
10
Unessa Foundation
Unessa Foundation is committed to supporting refugees and migrants by offering education, health support, and livelihood assistance.
Key Strengths Include:
- Holistic Support for Refugees and Migrants
- Community-Centered Integration Model
- Focus on Sustainable Livelihoods
- Strong Partnerships and Grassroots Reach
Why These NGOs Matter
India’s refugee and migrant communities face rising challenges due to displacement, legal barriers, and economic insecurity, especially in border states like Manipur and Assam and urban centers such as Delhi.
Refugee Demographics & Challenges
India hosts a diverse refugee and migrant population, with challenges intensifying in border regions due to cross-border influxes, and in major urban centers facing pressure from refugee and migrant settlements.
NGO Support & Services
Refugee NGOs in India and migration support NGOs are driving change by providing legal aid, education, and healthcare while advocating for policy reforms for displaced communities.
Collaborative Solutions
These NGOs for displaced persons in India collaborate with international bodies, local governments, and community leaders to deliver resettlement programs, vocational training, and health camps across border regions and urban slums.
Unessa Foundation refugee aid aligns with these efforts, integrating humanitarian support into its mission, fostering an ecosystem where refugees and migrants are empowered with rights, resources, and opportunities to thrive with dignity.
Conclusion
In 2026, Refugee and Migration NGOs in India are more than just organizations—they’re lifelines empowering displaced communities with protection and hope. Through legal aid, education, and livelihood support, these NGOs, including Unessa Foundation, are helping overcome challenges like legal recognition gaps, healthcare disparities, and economic insecurity, shaping a more inclusive future. By addressing issues faced by refugees and migrants in border regions and urban centers, and leveraging international partnerships and community resilience, you can contribute to a society where displaced individuals find safety and opportunity. These efforts uplift vulnerable lives, strengthen humanitarian networks, and inspire global migration support movements. Start small—start today.
To explore the purpose, impact, and role of NGOs in society, check out our comprehensive guide at Unessa Foundation’s Understanding NGOs.
FAQs
What do Refugee and Migration NGOs in India do?
They provide legal aid, education, healthcare, shelter, and livelihood support while advocating for the rights and protection of refugees and migrants across India.
Why are Refugee NGOs important in border states like Manipur and Assam?
These regions face increased influxes from neighboring countries, creating urgent needs for humanitarian assistance, legal protection, and basic services.
How do Migration Support NGOs help in urban areas like Delhi?
They address challenges faced by Afghan and Rohingya communities through healthcare services, education access, documentation support, and livelihood training.
How does Unessa Foundation support refugees and migrants?
Unessa Foundation offers holistic support through education, health services, livelihood assistance, and community-centered integration programs.
How can individuals contribute to refugee and migration support programs?
By donating or volunteering, individuals help fund legal aid, vocational training, healthcare, shelter support, and community integration initiatives for displaced families.
❤️Donate to refugee and migration support programs❤️
Your support helps provide legal aid, education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities, enabling refugees and migrants to rebuild their lives with dignity across India.
Your donation helps us fund:
- Legal aid and documentation services
- Education and vocational training
- Healthcare and shelter support
- Community integration initiatives
Even a small monthly contribution can fund legal assistance, training programs, or shelter for multiple refugee families.
