1. Training of Indian work riders in India
The training of working riders in India takes place in various institutions that specialize in horsekeeping and horsemanship. This training includes both theoretical and practical aspects of horse care, riding and training. The training can last between six months and two years, depending on the program and institution.
2. Working with horses in India
Indian working riders work in a variety of settings, including horse racing, stables and farms. They are responsible for grooming and training horses, preparing them for races or shows and general maintenance of stables. The work requires a high level of expertise and physical fitness.
3. Immigration to Germany
The immigration of Indian work riders to Germany is facilitated by various migration agreements that promote the mobility of skilled workers. These agreements allow qualified labor riders to work and use their skills in Germany. The process includes applying for a visa, proving qualifications and adapting to German working conditions. Also there is the 2003 Indo-German Migration and Mobility Agreement which was signed on December 5, 2022 and entered into force on March 7, 2023. It is the first comprehensive agreement in the field of migration that Germany has concluded with a country of origin.
This Agreement aims to promote the mobility of students, trainees, skilled workers, academics, journalists and cultural workers between Germany and India. It is intended to help combat the shortage of skilled workers in Germany and at the same time combat irregular migration and human trafficking. The agreement facilitates access to the German labor market for qualified Indians and enables them to gain professional and practical experience in Germany. However, there is no specific indication that working riders are explicitly mentioned as skilled workers in this agreement. The agreement aims to bring qualified professionals from various fields to Germany in order to combat the skills shortage and strengthen cooperation between the two countries. Working riders could potentially fall under the category of skilled workers if they can demonstrate the relevant qualifications and experience.
4. Work in Germany
In Germany, Indian work riders work in stud farms, riding stables and with private horse owners. They contribute their expertise in horse care and training and help to improve horse management. Working in Germany offers them the opportunity to work in a structured and well-organized environment, which is often seen as an advantage over working conditions in India.
5. Difference to the “Pferdewirt”
The profession of horse management in Germany is versatile and includes various specializations such as horse keeping and service, horse breeding and classical riding training. The Way to become a Pferdewirt is a dual training program that generally lasts three years. It includes both practical phases in the company and theoretical lessons at school. There are five fields in which a Pferdewirt can specialize:
- Classical riding training (also known as “rider training”)
- Horse breeding
- Horse keeping and service
- Horse racing (racing or harness racing)
- Special riding styles (e.g. western riding or gaited riding)
During the apprenticeship, trainees learn how to look after, care for, train and breed horses. They also learn about the health of horses and how to keep them appropriately. After completing their training, horse managers work in various areas such as riding schools, stud farms, horse boarding facilities and racing stables.
Their tasks include
- Care and grooming of horses: Feeding, grooming, saddling and general health monitoring.
- Training and education: training horses and riders in various disciplines and preparing them for competitions.
- Breeding and keeping: looking after breeding horses and organizing the breeding process.
- Race preparation: preparing horses for races and looking after them during the races.
Horse managers must be physically fit and have a passion for working with horses. The work can be physically demanding and often requires long working hours, including weekends.
In comparison, Indian working riders are often more specialized in specific tasks such as training and caring for horses. While horse managers go through a formal education that takes several years, Indian work riders can often acquire their skills through practical experience and shorter training programs.
6. Advantages for German stud farms
Hiring Indian work riders offers several advantages to German studs. They bring with them a high level of expertise and experience that can help improve horse care and training. They can also help to alleviate the shortage of skilled labor in the equine industry and bring new perspectives and techniques to working with horses.