Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 9: India on Friday criticised the United States over its decision to suspend PERM applications involving eight Indian IT firms, describing Vice President JD Vance’s remarks about Indian workers as “unwarranted and deeply offensive”.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the contribution of Indian professionals to the American economy and innovation ecosystem, stressing that talent mobility benefits both countries.

The ministry clarified that the PERM process is distinct from the H-1B visa programme. It said the suspension of PERM applications does not, by itself, affect the validity of existing H-1B visas or the status of visa holders and their dependents, although it could affect the permanent residency or Green Card process for eligible employees of the companies concerned.

The MEA said the movement of skilled professionals creates opportunities for Indians while helping American companies access talent that contributes to innovation, research, productivity, competitiveness and job creation. It also noted that such contributions help generate shareholder wealth in the United States.

“This is therefore an area of tremendous mutual benefit for the two countries and our expectation is that all stakeholders in this process can appreciate this fact. The steps announced by the US do not advance the shared ambitions of both countries,” the ministry said.

Responding to Vance’s remarks, India said the description of Indian professionals was unwarranted and overlooked their role as highly educated and skilled contributors to the US economy.

The MEA also pointed out that generations of immigrants had helped shape the history of the United States through their labour, enterprise and innovation.

“Resorting to terminology that carries painful historical and colonial legacy connotations is deeply offensive,” the ministry added.