Indian people possess some of the most sought after skills, particularly in technological sectors such as IT. These skills are wanted the world over, but difficulties in cross border movement can hinder international contributions.
Each year hundreds of thousand of Indians seek opportunities abroad, many opting for lives in the United States, The United Kingdom and Australia and ultimately these countries benefit from Indian skills.
Sometimes, however, this can be a difficult task. This has therefore resulted in the Indian government calling for countries to make visa restrictions more lenient. This comes as the World Trade Organisation (WTO) releases guidelines on the services sector, looking at outsourcing commitments and creating easier cross border temporary movement.
If these restrictions are eased it would therefore be much simpler for Indians to go overseas and work. “We do not want immigration,†says G K Pillai, India’s Commerce Secretary. This highlights the want for this move to be only temporary.
Pillai adds that, “Indian firms winning contracts abroad need to send their professionals to execute them. We want to ensure that visas to such professionals are not denied.†Often domestic regulations stop skilled people from getting visas even when they are already hired by a company.
The Indian government is also negotiating for labour treaties with certain European countries in order for them to contribute as soon as possible to the job market. Europe actively wants to tap into Indians labour market and lenient immigration and visa laws will allow them to do this.
Aging populations and the exodus of skilled workers are the main two reasons why countries need international skills to fill labour voids – India’s skilled workforce could be the answer to this.
If these regulations are alleviated both the professional and the developed nation will benefit, as the worker gains excellent skills, the country is provided with essential services.
Members of the WTO have until June 2 to study the propositions and make decisions as to the services sector amendments.
