Here's news for those who routinely complain about migration from UP and Bihar to the rest of India. Data from the ministry of external  affairs on new passports issued, reveals a dramatic 68% increase in the two states, suggesting that jobs outside the country increasingly beckon.

Experts believe the rise can be attributed to personal travel and UP and Bihari workers travelling to the Gulf countries in search of blue-collar jobs. The emphasis on education and rapid rise in educated youth may be a reason for same.

It's not just UP and Bihar - the country in general seems to be in the mood to wing its way to foreign shores if the 30% increase in passports issued by the 37 regional passport offices (RPO) across India between 2005 and 2008 is anything to go by.

Hmm do we say anything more?