Chandigarh, September 21 (IANS) Congress leader and former Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal has strongly criticized the United States for starting strict circumstances on H -1B visas, saying that the move will cause damage to Indian professionals and students, while also damaging their economy.
Speaking to IANS, Bansal said that for decades, the US had encouraged talented youth around the world – especially from India – to work, study and contribute to their economy.
He said, “Earlier, the US invited skilled people in IT, medicine, architecture, engineering and other fields to strengthen its economy. Now, to make education and work more expensive, they are contrasting,” they commented.
Bansal said that more than 70 percent of H -1B visas are issued to Indians, who have played an important role in promoting the US economy.
He said, “Our people have been there for years and have strengthened their economy. Now, with these sanctions, less Indians will be able to go.
He also targeted US President Donald Trump, under whose policies the cost and conditions of the visa were tightened.
“Trump once called Prime Minister Modi a good friend, and Modi also described him in this way, but the decisions taken were against Indian interests. He put a tariff on about 50 percent of Indian goods, which caused a huge problem for our manufacturers,” Bansal said.
The Congress leader warned Washington against any agricultural concession in the upcoming trade talks.
He said, “America gives heavy subsidy to its farmers. If their subsidized yield – watermelon and melon – come here independently, it will harm Indian agriculture. We should not compromise our farm sector for them,” he warned.
Bansal said that the firm but for fair talks, Bansal said that India should engage with the US without pressure.
He said, “The conversation should continue, but India should not bow down. We should protect our skilled youth and our farmers from unfair policies.”
Bansal also said that Trump’s unexpectedness had already hurt India.
“No one can predict her. On one hand, he praises India and PM Modi, and on the other, he works against Indian interests,” he said.
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SAS/VD