Daijiworld Media Network - Chandigarh
Chandigarh, Sep 21: Senior Congress leader and former union minister Pawan Kumar Bansal has come down heavily on the United States for tightening its H-1B visa rules, calling the move a direct blow to Indian professionals and students — and a self-inflicted wound to the U.S. economy.
Speaking to reporters, Bansal expressed concern over the rising costs and conditions attached to education and work permits in the U.S., saying these changes would make it harder for Indian talent to contribute abroad.
“For decades, America built its economy with the help of skilled professionals from India — in IT, medicine, engineering, and architecture. Now, they’re doing the opposite by shutting doors and raising fees,” he said.
With over 70% of H-1B visas issued to Indians, Bansal warned that any reduction in access would severely impact aspiring youth in India and exacerbate the skilled labor shortage in the U.S.
He also took aim at US President Donald Trump, blaming his administration for policies that hurt Indian interests despite public gestures of friendship.
“Trump may have called Modi a good friend, and vice versa, but actions speak louder. He imposed tariffs on nearly half of Indian exports and made life harder for Indian professionals,” Bansal said.
Turning to trade talks, Bansal cautioned against India offering agricultural concessions to the U.S., especially when American farmers receive heavy subsidies. “If subsidised U.S. produce enters our market freely — like melons and other crops — it will devastate our local farmers. We must not compromise our agriculture sector,” he warned.
He called for balanced and assertive diplomacy. “We should talk, but we must not bend. Whether it's protecting our youth or defending our farmers, India must negotiate from a position of strength.”
As for Trump’s return to the political spotlight in the U.S., Bansal remained skeptical. “He’s unpredictable. One moment he praises India, the next he takes decisions that clearly harm us. That inconsistency is dangerous.”