Russia is increasingly turning to Indian blue-collar workers to address a growing labour shortage that has intensified due to demographic decline and prolonged economic pressures. According to recruitment firms, demand from Russian employers for Indian welders, tailors, carpenters, steel fixers and other skilled and semi-skilled workers has risen sharply over recent years, with hiring up about 60 % compared with four years ago.
Recruitment agencies handling overseas placements say the trend mirrors past Middle East hiring booms, with Indian workers being sought in sectors from construction and manufacturing to fish processing.
The surge is partly driven by a bilateral focus on labour mobility following agreements between India and Russia to strengthen workforce movement, seen as a key component of deeper economic cooperation.
Indian workers heading to Russia can earn around ₹50,000 per month plus food and accommodation, a significant wage premium relative to many domestic opportunities, recruiters note.
The trend highlights how Indian labour is increasingly integrated into global markets beyond traditional Gulf destinations, helping both workers and Russian employers meet evolving needs in a competitive labour environment.
