New Delhi, 09 October (H.S.):

India has said that the United States’ decision concerning the Permanent Labour Certification (PERM) programme for certain companies would do little to advance the shared aspirations of the two countries. New Delhi emphasised that the movement of skilled professionals benefits the economies of both nations and described the remarks made by the US Vice-President on the issue as inappropriate.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the PERM programme is separate from the H-1B visa programme. A suspension of PERM applications does not automatically affect the validity of existing H-1B visas or the immigration status of visa holders and their dependants. However, it could have implications for the permanent residency, or Green Card, process for eligible employees of the companies concerned.

The Ministry said that the mobility of skilled professionals creates opportunities for Indian workers while also benefiting American companies. It facilitates access to advanced skills, promotes innovation and research, improves productivity and competitiveness, and supports job creation. It also contributes to an increase in shareholder wealth in the United States.

Describing talent mobility as an important area of mutual benefit for both countries, India expressed hope that all stakeholders involved in the process would recognise its broader economic significance.

The Ministry's statement also addressed remarks made by the US Vice-President on the issue. India described the comments as inappropriate, stating that they overlooked the significant contributions of Indian professionals to the American economy and its innovation ecosystem.

Indian professionals are highly educated and skilled, the Ministry said, adding that they continue to contribute substantially to the growth of the US economy.

The Ministry further observed that the history of the United States has been shaped by successive generations of immigrants whose labour, entrepreneurship and innovation have contributed to the country's progress and prosperity.

It added that the use of terms carrying painful historical and colonial connotations was deeply offensive. India said it was closely monitoring developments relating to the matter.

It may be noted that the United States has suspended several major technology companies, including Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Wipro, HCL, Cognizant, Capgemini, Microsoft and Adobe, from the PERM programme.

The programme is an important step in the process of obtaining permanent residency, or a Green Card, for eligible foreign employees.

PERM is a labour certification process that US employers must generally complete before sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residency under certain employment-based Green Card categories. It is distinct from the H-1B visa, which allows foreign professionals to work temporarily in the United States.

The suspension of new PERM applications could create uncertainty for future Green Card applications and employment-based immigration proceedings. However, cases that have already received approval are not expected to be affected by the suspension, according to the report.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar