Punjab, known for its rich heritage and agricultural strength, is now under the shadow of a distressing trend—illegal human smuggling. Locally referred to as "kabootarbaazi", this underground activity has become a flourishing business across the state. Thousands of people, especially young men, are falling into the trap laid by unscrupulous agents who promise them jobs, education, or permanent settlement in foreign lands. Fueled by desperation and the dream of a better life abroad, many Punjabis risk everything—money, safety, and even their lives—only to face fraud, exploitation, or deportation.