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Beside Vasco da Gama’s tomb, 500 years later: A story of neglected opportunities to lure foreign tourists
This article first appeared in The Economic Times on January 11, 2025. In the heart of Kochi, St. Francis Church stands as a silent witness to history, housing the tomb of Vasco da Gama for 14 years before his remains were taken back to Portugal. Visiting the church on December 24, I realized it marked exactly 500 years since da Gama’s death in 1524. Yet, the milestone passed unnoticed by the government or tourism boards, despite its potential to attract European, especially Portuguese, tourists. Da Gama’s legacy, albeit contested, could have been a springboard for cultural diplomacy and tourism innovation. India’s approach to leveraging its colonial past for tourism remains lackluster. Iconic slogans like “Incredible India” and “God’s Own Country” need a dynamic refresh. Neglected landmarks, such as Assam’s British-era tramway near Raimona National Park, highlight missed opportunities. These steam engines, now used to dry clothes, could be restored into an interactive historical attraction. Pairing this with the park’s elusive golden langurs would create a unique blend of history and nature to draw visitors. Further east, Manipur’s Red Hills offers another example of untapped potential. The site of a fierce World War II battle between Japanese and Allied forces, it now hosts a peace museum inaugurated in 2019 with support from Japan’s Nippon Foundation. The museum and a Japanese-built memorial bearing the poignant message, “This monument will stand as a prayer for peace,” reflect a commitment to reconciliation. Red Hills could be reimagined as a pilgrimage for Japanese and British tourists, honoring a shared history of sacrifice and peace. India’s tourism sector, which sustains 45 million jobs and contributes 6.8% to the GDP, is underperforming. Between January and June 2024, only 4.7 million foreign tourists visited India, a 10% decline from pre-Covid numbers in 2019. Amid global “revenge travel,” this decline underscores the urgency for creative strategies. Instead of dismissing colonial-era relics as remnants of exploitation, India should embrace their narratives to attract global tourists. Integrating historical preservation with compelling storytelling can bring fresh energy to the tourism sector. By highlighting overlooked landmarks and creating immersive experiences, India can harness its rich past to build a vibrant future in tourism. Let the echoes of history transform into opportunities for global connections and economic growth... Read more in The Economic Times
What Justin Trudeau’s Exit Means For Indian Canadians
The article first appeared in NDTV on Jan 7, 2025. Justin Trudeau's resignation as Canada’s Prime Minister marks the end of an era characterized by ambitious immigration policies, humanitarian commitments, and a mixed legacy. After nearly a decade in office, his departure leaves Canada at a pivotal moment, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre emerging as the frontrunner to shape the nation’s future direction. Poilievre's platform promises a departure from Trudeau’s policies, with an emphasis on reforming the immigration system among other sweeping changes. Trudeau’s tenure stood out for its bold immigration targets and global humanitarian efforts. His government’s plan to welcome over 500,000 permanent residents annually by 2025 aimed to address critical labour shortages and counteract Canada’s ageing population. However, this strategy sparked debate. While it was lauded for its vision, critics contend that the rapid influx of immigrants has placed immense pressure on essential public services, including housing, healthcare, and infrastructure. Among Trudeau’s notable accomplishments was Canada’s commitment to refugee resettlement. His government facilitated the arrival of over 40,000 Syrian refugees and introduced the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, which granted temporary refuge to over 200,000 Ukrainians fleeing the war. These initiatives underscored Canada’s role as a global leader in humanitarian efforts, earning praise both domestically and internationally. Despite these achievements, Trudeau’s immigration policies also faced backlash. Some Indian Canadians, for instance, described his resignation as "bittersweet," acknowledging his efforts to create opportunities for newcomers while criticizing the challenges these policies introduced. Additionally, tensions in Canada-India relations, particularly surrounding diplomatic disagreements and issues of separatist movements, added another layer of complexity, influencing public perception of his leadership within the Indian diaspora. As Pierre Poilievre positions himself as Trudeau’s potential successor, his platform signals a shift. Poilievre has criticized the Liberal government’s handling of immigration, vowing to implement reforms aimed at ensuring a balanced approach that supports Canada’s economic needs while addressing the capacity of public services. Trudeau’s resignation offers an opportunity for Canada to reflect on the successes and shortcomings of his leadership. While his tenure cemented Canada’s reputation as a welcoming and compassionate nation, it also highlighted the complexities of balancing humanitarian goals with domestic realities, including managing Canada-India relations amid diplomatic tensions and disagreements. As Canada enters this new political chapter, the choices made in the coming months will shape the nation’s identity and priorities for years to come. Read more: NDTV Find more Global Indian Top Reads
Indians own more property in London than Englishmen; netizens take ‘karma’ jibe: ‘At least they did it legally’
This article was published in the Mint January 2, 2025.
America’s H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here’s why
The article first appeared in WION on Dec 31, 2024. The United States' increasing protectionism under the H1B visa program, particularly during Donald Trump’s second term, is poised to bring unexpected advantages to India. As the U.S. implements policies aimed at curbing the inflow of foreign skilled workers to protect domestic employment, Indian professionals and the country’s broader economy stand to gain from the ripple effects of this shift. For decades, the H1B visa program has been a key avenue for Indian talent, especially in technology and engineering, to contribute to the U.S. economy. India has consistently been the largest source of H1B applicants, with its skilled workforce playing an integral role in the success of Silicon Valley. However, tightening restrictions on these visas—through reduced quotas, stricter eligibility criteria, and increased costs for employers—may limit opportunities for Indian professionals to work in the U.S. While this initially appears disadvantageous, it could catalyze a significant reversal of talent flow and bolster India’s own innovation ecosystem. First, as the U.S. imposes barriers, many Indian professionals will choose to remain in India, leading to a "brain gain" rather than the "brain drain" of previous decades. This shift will strengthen India's tech industry, fostering a surge in entrepreneurship and innovation within the country. With global companies increasingly establishing operations in India, particularly in the IT and startup sectors, skilled professionals are likely to find attractive opportunities closer to home. Second, U.S. firms facing challenges in accessing Indian talent through H1B visas may opt to expand their offshore operations in India. This trend could lead to greater investment in Indian tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune. Companies may also ramp up remote work policies, enabling Indian professionals to contribute to global projects without the need for physical relocation. While U.S. protectionism under the H1B program may create short-term disruptions for individual workers and companies, it offers India an unprecedented opportunity to retain its talent, attract investment, and strengthen its position in the global economy. In the long term, the shift could contribute significantly to India’s growth and technological self-reliance... Read More: WION Find more Global Indian Top Reads
EB-5 visa offers an investment route to US citizenship and permanent residency
The article first appeared in the Financial Express on January 3, 2025. The United States of America, often celebrated as the land of opportunity, has inspired generations of individuals worldwide. Its influence is vividly captured in the nation’s music, where songs like James Brown’s 1985 classic Living in America reflect pride in the country's progress and prosperity. Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus’s Party in the USA celebrates the vibrancy and spirit of living in America, painting a picture of life’s possibilities. These musical pieces resonate with a shared dream: the pursuit of a better life, economic success, and personal freedom—a dream that attracts countless people from all corners of the globe. America’s allure lies not only in its cultural influence but also in its vast opportunities. For young professionals aiming to grow their careers, entrepreneurs seeking a thriving ecosystem, or students aspiring for world-class education, the U.S. offers an unmatched environment for growth and success. Immigration pathways like the EB-5 visa program have made it possible for high-net-worth individuals to invest in the country while building a life in the U.S. The EB-5 visa program, established in 1990, provides a direct route for foreigners to obtain permanent residency and potentially U.S. citizenship. To qualify, applicants must make a minimum investment of $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—typically rural or high-unemployment regions—or $1,050,000 in other areas. These investments must create or preserve at least ten full-time jobs for American workers, aligning the program with the nation’s goal of fostering economic growth. What makes the EB-5 visa program particularly attractive is its simplicity and its immediate benefits. Successful applicants and their families gain the ability to reside, work, and study anywhere in the United States. They also enjoy access to high-quality healthcare and education systems, along with the ability to travel freely to and from the country. For investors, the program represents a stable, secure opportunity to contribute to the U.S. economy while gaining a pathway to the American dream. It is especially appealing for individuals seeking both financial growth and personal fulfillment. As a testament to America’s welcoming spirit, the EB-5 visa stands as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to fostering global connections while preserving its core values of freedom, innovation, and prosperity. Through music, culture, and immigration pathways like the EB-5 program, the United States continues to inspire and fulfill the aspirations of people worldwide... Read More at the Financial Express Find more Global Indian Top Reads
In 2025, India should play the role of peacemaker in world affairs
The article first appeared in The Mint on Jan 3, 2025. The aspiration for global peace remains a distant dream, as conflicts and violence continue to ravage the world. A stark reminder came on New Year’s Day with the terror attack in New Orleans, a city famed for its vibrant music and rich cultural heritage. This tragic act, carried out by a US citizen influenced by Islamic State (IS) ideology, claimed the lives of 15 innocent civilians and left dozens injured. For extremists, the concept of innocence is often distorted, reserved only for those who align with their ideology. Elsewhere, the relentless violence in Gaza underscores the cyclical nature of conflict in the region. Israeli airstrikes, responding to Hamas terror attacks, have led to significant civilian casualties, including children and infants. The disproportionate response has sparked outrage, with hostilities spilling over into Lebanon and Iran, reflecting the broader volatility of the region. The past year witnessed intense escalations, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue to replace violence. Meanwhile, the war between Russia and Ukraine grinds on, showing no signs of abatement. Russia’s recurring threats of nuclear escalation have pushed global tensions to unprecedented lows, marking this war as a grim symbol of the "new normal" in international relations, where aggression and human suffering persist unchecked. Amid these crises, India in 2025 has the potential to emerge as a global peacemaker. With its stature as the world’s largest democracy, a growing economy, and a tradition of advocating non-violence, India is uniquely positioned to mediate conflicts and promote dialogue. By leveraging its diplomatic strength and fostering international cooperation, India can lead efforts to address the root causes of extremism, ensure accountability for human rights violations, and promote equitable solutions to disputes. The convergence of global crises demands not just reactive measures but proactive leadership. India can play a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative, championing peace, and creating avenues for reconciliation. The world, now more than ever, needs nations that can bridge divides and work toward sustainable solutions for conflict resolution. As the year unfolds, India’s leadership as a peacemaker could be instrumental in building a more secure and harmonious global order... Read More: The Mint Find more Global Indian Top Reads
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