Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India, on July 23, 2024 sat with The Indian Panorama Chief Editor Prof. Indrajit S Saluja for an interview. It was the day when the Interim Budget was presented in the Indian Parliament by India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Seetharaman. 

Our conversation began with my request for the Consul General’s comment on the budget. And the Consul General obliged  with his comments, saying that  he had not studied the budget in detail yet. But since the interview is being published on the eve of the Independence Day of India, I am  omitting a large  part of conversation on the Budget, as such, only retaining  the part dealing with  budgetary provisions for students, at home and abroad. 

The long interview has been edited , but the spirit of the comments made by the Consul General has been kept  intact.

Here are  excerpts from  the interview.   

TIP: You  had expressed  anxiety about  Indian students here, some of them committing suicide, some of them dying unnatural deaths, and you wanted the Indian American diaspora here to, to take care of them. Why  I said that because that is indicative of your concern for the youth and the students? What do you think the  interim budget has offered our youth in India, our students in India? What is there for students in the Budget?

CG:  In the recent budget announcement, a new provision has been introduced  aimed at encouraging students to pursue higher education within the country. The scheme includes an incentive for students to take loans for their higher education in India, thus motivating them to stay within the country for their academic pursuits. This initiative is seen as a significant move to retain talent within India and reduce the financial burden on students who choose to study domestically.

Now, we are talking about a different issue here. At the moment, we have about  350,000 Indian students in the U.S., a dramatic rise from approximately 200,000 just two years ago. This surge has brought attention to several issues, including unfortunate incidents involving accidents and other causes of death among the student population. The consulate has been actively working with the families of the affected students, American authorities, and Indian community leaders to address and prevent such incidents.

Efforts have been made to connect Indian student communities with the broader Indian diaspora in the U.S. The consulate has launched a portal specifically for Indian students, providing access to resources such as a list of doctors offering free consultations, internship opportunities with over 30 companies, and legal experts who can assist in case of any legal requirements. With 113,000 Indian students under the jurisdiction of the consulate, there is a significant responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being.

The consulate has been engaging with universities and student communities to raise awareness about the local laws, culture, and job market, emphasizing the importance of navigating the initial months in a new country with caution. The consulate has also organized various events and visits to university campuses to interact with students and university authorities. Notable Indian figures, including Indra Nooyi, have been involved in initiatives to guide and support new Indian students in the U.S.

TIP: Did you during your interaction  with the academicians at the universities and colleges and the students come across any complaint that Indian students are taking drugs ?

CG: Indian students are generally viewed as disciplined and responsible. Concerns raised by students tend to be more related to their lack of awareness about the legal system, job market challenges, and access to internships, rather than issues like drug use or lack of medical insurance.

TIP: Is there any provision here for them that they are provided health insurance?

CG: I’m not having great expertise on this particular issue. I have come across students who are here with insurance. Many universities are providing those facilities. So, I really don’t know in great detail, but I understand that that is not a major issue that the students are facing in terms of not having access to medical care, that is not an issue.

TIP: Let me then take you to another question. If at all, medical insurance is not provided by the educational institutions, where they are studying, or where the students are not in a position to buy their medical insurance, do you think government of India could ever think of  taking on the burden of providing them the required medical care.

CG: That’s a  theoretical question. Let me not get into that because we have over  4 million strong Indian community over here. Out of which about 2 million are Indian passport holders. Are you suggesting that anybody who is coming to US,  if they don’t have access to medical care, they should be provided medical care at government of India expense?

TIP: No.  Only the students  I’m talking about.

CG: I think, let me not make a comment. Like I said in my six months having interacted with a large number of Indian students community, this is not one among the concerns I have come across. I have come across, you know, their access to let’s say, the internship,  their access to job. These are the concerns that I come across. The legal challenges they face at times when they don’t know and violate a law, unintentionally or unknowingly. Those are the challenges, I’m yet to come across a case where an Indian student is not having access to medical care.  I can assure you that if we come across such a case, we’ll take care of that as a Consulate. So, rather than getting into a policy issue of whether government of India is having a provision or not, let me assure that if there is a case like that, we are there to find a solution that is so crucial. So that is that.

TIP: So,  you have a panel of legal advisors?

CG: The consulate has established a panel of legal advisors available through the student portal, ensuring that students have access to legal support if needed. The overall message is one of ongoing efforts to support Indian students abroad, ensuring they are well-prepared, safe, and able to succeed whether they choose to stay in the U.S. or return to India with the skills they have acquired.

TIP: What are the various schemes available for Indian nationals, particularly those providing legal assistance?  There is a lack of widespread awareness about these schemes.

CG: I acknowledge the  importance of publicizing these initiatives and efforts have been made to reach out to the public, including holding a press conference when the consulate announced it would remain open 365 days a year to provide emergency services. There is a  need for consistent communication to ensure that the wider Indian community is aware of these services, even though these initiatives have already received some media coverage in both the local and Indian media.

TIP: You may utilize  the robust local media in the U.S., which includes various community-specific newspapers and TV channels, to disseminate information more effectively.

CG: I appreciate  this suggestion and, also understand the  importance of continuous engagement with the media to keep the community informed. In fact, we have  plans for another press conference in August to brief the media about new initiatives and services offered by the consulate.

TIP: What has been your experience over the past six months you have been here?

CG:  As You know we have  ten states under New York Consulate’s jurisdiction. It is a large constituency. And it has to be served well. The  consulate’s primary functions include consular duties, promoting trade and commerce, and engaging in political, cultural, and media activities. One of the important tasks is a  smooth operation of consular services, highlighting the positive feedback received through reviews and the proactive approach in addressing complaints, particularly with the involvement of VFS, the outsourced agency handling visa and passport services.

The Consulate plays a significant role  in fostering trade and economic relations between India and the U.S. The ten states covered by the consulate account for about $43 billion in trade, a substantial portion of the overall India-U.S. trade. There has been an  active participation of business delegations from both countries, with numerous economic events organized to promote trade and investment opportunities. I am satisfied with an  increasing interest among American stakeholders in engaging with India economically.

TIP: What other areas of India-US relationship do you see?

CG: The political, cultural, and media engagement are  other key areas.   There is a strong and evolving relationship between India and the U.S. The bilateral ties have reached a point where they are irreversible and poised for continued growth. And the Consulate plays a significant  role in maintaining this relationship through regular interactions with elected representatives and media outlets. The consulate’s efforts to engage with both mainstream and Indian-origin media are essential for providing accurate information about India and its developments.

TIP: How do you look at the balance of trade between India and the US?

CG: The trade between the two countries is growing on both sides, with the trade balance becoming more balanced over time.  The  increasing volume of energy imports from the U.S. to India is an example of new trade segments being developed..

I  welcome feedback from the Indian-origin community in the U.S. Their input helps a lot in strengthening India-U.S. economic relations. There have been  instances in the past where community feedback led to successful initiatives. The Consulate is  committed to  openness in  receiving ideas and suggestions for future collaborations.

TIP: There is a growing sentiment among the Indian diaspora that now is an opportune time for India to become a global manufacturing hub for various small-scale products that China previously dominated. Given the current geopolitical climate, especially with the strained relationship between the U.S. and China,  India could step in to fill this gap. India could capitalize on this opportunity, providing employment to its vast workforce by manufacturing and exporting goods like jute products and carpets, which are already in demand in international markets.

CG: Yes, manufacturing is indeed a priority for India. India initiated the  “Make in India” campaign, which has been instrumental in promoting this sector. The recent budget documents highlight the government’s ongoing efforts to boost manufacturing across various sectors, particularly by supporting the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector with credit facilities. It is important not just  creating manufacturing capabilities but also ensuring market access, which is crucial for sustaining growth in international trade.

In order to achieve the ambitious goal of $500 billion in trade, India must explore and tap into new areas of trade, including those smaller but essential products that can be manufactured domestically and exported globally. It is equally important  to diversify supply chains, a lesson reinforced by the COVID-19 pandemic. India is increasingly being seen as an attractive alternative for sourcing not only smaller goods but also more complex products like semiconductors and electronics.

TIP: Look at the textile industry. Clothes available in American markets are often from countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Indonesia.  Indian textiles, known for their superior quality, could capture a significant share of this market if India refocused on revitalizing its textile mills and exporting these products.

CG: I agree.  Indian handloom and handicraft products are already widely available in U.S. markets and are recognized for their high quality. During a recent Indian Handloom Fair in the U.S., most exhibitors were already exporting their products to the country, indicating a strong market presence. However, while Indian products are already well-received in the U.S., there is still room to expand and increase exports, thereby generating more foreign exchange and contributing to India’s economic growth. There is  potential for India to enhance its manufacturing capabilities, tap into new markets, and address rural unemployment by turning this potential into reality.

TIP:  India could benefit from feedback from the Indian diaspora in the U.S. to address issues like unemployment and poverty in India. Many people of Indian origin in the U.S. have valuable ideas and solutions that could help India develop, and they want these ideas to be communicated back to the Indian government.

CG: While there is progress, more acceleration is needed.  Indian exporters and government bodies are actively working to increase exports and tap into new markets, but trade is a competitive field, not one of charity.

TIP: How do you view the Indian-American community’s relationship with the U.S. government?

CG: Recently, I was going through the report that was prepared by  the Boston Consultancy  Group, which highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian community in various sectors, including public office. The  Indian-American community is increasingly holding elected positions and contributing to mainstream governance in the U.S., which reflects the healthy relationship between the community and the broader American society.

The Indian-American community plays a vital role  in strengthening the India-U.S. relationship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently acknowledged that the Indian-American community is the “main engine” driving this relationship. This sentiment was echoed by President Biden, who described the India-U.S. relationship as one of the most consequential of the 21st century.

The fact that when we meet the elected Congressmen , Senators, or governors, the kind of goodwill they express when they talk about  the Indian community, the warmth with which they kind of appreciate the contribution of our community , it shows there is wider acceptance and appreciation of o our community by the government here, and I am sure, going forward, we are going to  see that increasing. Today, India is held in respect;  India is looked upon  as a growing country and doing well. It is because of the effort of the Indian American community.

TIP: How far , do you think, Indian culture has been helpful in building this relationship or strengthening this relationship?

CG: I met somebody who is a professor from India, who, after studying at prominent universities in the U.S., is writing a book on how the Indian value system contributes to the success of the Indian-American community. This professor suggests that the emphasis on education, strong family values, and support within the community are key factors behind the Indian-American community’s success, including their higher per capita income compared to the mainstream American population. These cultural values likely play a significant role.

TIP: What are you doing at the Consulate level to promote Indian values and Indian culture?

CG: We work with the Indian community. Besides, there are events that we do ourselves.  Recently, we celebrated International Yoga Day across all ten states under the consulate’s jurisdiction, which involved not only the Indian community but also many Americans. A survey reveals that 10% of Americans practice yoga, with 36,000 yoga studios across the country. This in itself is illustrative of  how Indian cultural practices have been embraced in mainstream America.

The same goes for the  Indian art forms within the Indian-American community. For example, during a visit to New Jersey, I  witnessed 700 young Indian kids dancing together on one stage, a sight I hadn’t even seen in India. The consulate actively collaborates with Indian community groups to ensure that cultural heritage is passed down to younger generations, including teaching them their mother tongues and keeping them connected to Indian cuisine, costumes, and traditions.

Indian culture has already found a strong foothold in the U.S., with Indian food, festivals, and clothing becoming increasingly popular. The consulate works closely with the community to support and celebrate these cultural expressions, hosting and participating in various events and festivals, thereby fostering a deeper cultural connection between India and the U.S.

TIP:  How  does the Consulate support various Indian organizations, particularly those organizing parades and other events?

CG:The Consulate offers support to all Indian community organizations that request assistance, though most large-scale events, like parades, are primarily funded and organized by the communities themselves. The consulate works in partnership with these organizations, providing modest support when needed.

TIP: How about the bigger events, like Jaipur Literary Festival?

CG : Such events are typically organized independently but  the Consulate is open to offering assistance if approached. The Consulate’s support is guided by its core principles and the requests it receives from the Indian-American community.

TIP: What are the plans of the Consulate for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations?

CG: This is the  first time I will be part of the Independence Day celebrations here. Besides the celebration we do at the Consulate, we do celebrate Independence Day at prominent places in  multiple states. This year, events will take place from August 10th to August 17th, with invitations already received from seven states and 15 cities. The consulate plans to attend as many events as possible to show solidarity with the community.

TIP: What do you plan to do for the segments of the Indians here who face certain challenges?

CG: There is a need  of  a better connect of  Indian students with the broader community to provide them with support in emergencies. While  most students are doing well, there is a need for stronger ties between them and the established Indian-American community.  6% of the Indian-American community is not as privileged and requires assistance, particularly women facing legal and economic challenges.

There is a need to raise awareness about the available support systems. Media and community organizations play a crucial role in bridging the gap between those in need and the resources available. I was pleased to know about Indian-American doctors providing scholarships for distressed women to attend community colleges, thereby upgrading their skills and improving their employment prospects. There should be a better collaboration between the consulate, media, and community organizations to ensure that those in need receive the help they require.

TIP: What , do you think, is the  impact of Indian values in the U.S.?

CG: Indian-American community has distinguished itself for upholding values such as service and responsibility. These  values have helped integrate the community into American society.  Indian-origin doctors, who make up 10% of the medical professionals in the U.S. but treat 30% of the patients. It’s  a testament to the community’s commitment to giving back.

TIP: Indian values have even influenced mainstream American families, with many non-Indians embracing these values through their relationships with Indian-Americans. Look at Tulsi Gabbard.

CG: Yes. She’s  deep into Indian value system. She’s not an Indian. She’s an American, Hawaiian. There are many such cases.

TIP: What is your Message for the Indian American community on the eve of the 15^{th of} August?

CG: I would say it’s a true honor to be working in this country very closely with the Indian American community. The contribution you have made , not only to the American society , American nation building, , and also the contribution you have made in terms of cementing the relationship between India and the US is exemplary. So, we look forward to work with you very closely. Like the Prime minister said, our relationship with you is not a passport. So, it’s a different relationship. And I remain committed to work in that spirit with the Indian American community for the larger end,  objective,  of bringing a win win proposition and cementing the relationship between the two nations.