According to LinkedIn, returnees are primarily seeking opportunities in IT, healthcare, tourism, and education, while many are also returning to start businesses.

Stable employment, proximity to family, and a better work-life balance compared to high-pressure metros and overseas jobs are cited as key reasons for the trend, as per the report.

“About 52 per cent of Kerala’s global returnees came from the UAE, bringing expertise in business operations, finance, and entrepreneurship”.

“Meanwhile, regional migration — led by Karnataka — has strengthened Kerala’s innovation and technology talent pool, with rising inflows in product management, research, and education.

Skill development has also taken centre stage through various initiatives,” the K-DISC release said.

The report also highlights a 172 per cent increase in Kerala’s professional talent pool over the last five years, placing the state ninth among Indian states.

Nearly 40 per cent of this workforce is concentrated in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur and Kozhikode.

K-DISC said that findings are expected to guide Kerala’s future policies in talent development, global collaborations, and investment in emerging industries.