(MENAFN- KNN India)
New Delhi, Jul 17 (KNN) In a significant shift from its stringent stance following the 2020 Himalayan border clash, India is reportedly considering a relaxation of visa restrictions for Chinese technicians.
This move comes as the country grapples with mounting economic losses and delays in manufacturing sectors heavily reliant on Chinese expertise.
Sources within the Indian government reveal that the trade Ministry is spearheading efforts to expedite visa approvals for Chinese technical personnel.
The foreign ministry, despite initial reservations stemming from the four-year diplomatic chill between the two nuclear-armed nations, is said to be viewing the proposal "positively."
The potential policy shift is driven by domestic industry concerns and aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious plans to boost local manufacturing.
According to industry estimates cited by the Economic Times, the electronics manufacturing sector alone has suffered production losses of approximately USD 15 billion over the past four years due to visa-related delays.
The proposed fast-track visa process aims to reduce approval times from the current one-year wait to less than a month. This would particularly benefit 14 key sectors covered by a USD 24 billion scheme to enhance high-tech electronics production.
The new visas would allow Chinese technicians to stay for up to six months, primarily to operate and maintain Chinese-made machinery in Indian factories.
Government data indicates that between November 2023 and April 2024, India received nearly 1,600 visa applications for Chinese technicians, underscoring the urgent need for their expertise in industries ranging from telecommunications to steel production and solar panel manufacturing.
This potential thaw in visa policy represents a delicate balancing act for India. While seeking to protect its economic interests and manufacturing goals, the country must navigate the complex geopolitical landscape that has defined Sino-Indian relations since the 2020 border tensions.
As the situation develops, observers note that this move could signal a broader reassessment of India's approach to Chinese engagement, potentially paving the way for increased economic cooperation while maintaining strategic caution.
The Indian government has yet to make an official announcement, and spokespersons for the trade, home, and foreign ministries have not responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting.
(KNN Bureau)
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