MEA Slams US Move On PERM Row, Defends Tech Talent, Calls VP Remarks Unwarranted

India has strongly reacted to the United States decision regarding the PERM program, stating that the measures do not advance shared ambitions between the two nations. The Ministry of External Affairs called remarks by the US Vice President unwarranted and deeply offensive, noting they carry painful historical colonial connotations. Defending Indian diaspora professionals, the ministry highlighted that skilled Indian workers contribute substantially to the US economy and its innovation ecosystem. While clarifying that the PERM suspension does not directly harm existing H-1B visas as the visa category is governed by congressional legislation, the MEA warned that the decision could negatively impact the green card process for eligible employees. The Indian government affirmed it will actively track developments regarding the issue.