Apex software industry body Nasscom sees US President Barack Obama?s India visit a boost to IT sector by allaying fears on the outsourcing issue. Speaking to FE?s Debojyoti Ghosh on the sidelines of the body?s Annual Product Conclave, Som Mittal, president, Nasscom said the visit has helped break the stereotypes about India stealing jobs or being a call centre country. Excerpts:
How has Obama?s India visit helped IT industry?
There is much better realisation now that we are adding value. We are assured that our perspective and business model is understood. India as a market and a place to leverage global talent is well established. However, this one visit would not ensure that the job is over, the message has to be conveyed at the grass root level as well. It is also a learning for us on what we need to do ahead and how we need to work on partnering with companies. We have to change stereotypes going forward.
How will you rate the Obama visit?
The US president?s visit was not just about signing deals, but about understanding the country?s potential. Around 200 CEOs of different companies interacted business and talked about how they see India as a market and as a destination. It has made India visible globally. Obama did a great job for our industry. He positioned India as a market, which is not emerging but has emerged already. However, now it is important to see how all these policy decisions will get translated into real action.
How does Nasscom view the US visa issues?
Cap on the visa is not an issue. We have 85,000 visa under the quota and less than 50,000 has been used so far. Last year, only 6,000 has been used. It is the matter of excess scrutiny that is going on indirectly that need to be addressed. We have addressed the issue with the embassy.
Does industry need more inclusive policy with the US ?
It was part of government discussion and both are committed to protectionism not being the way forward and open markets will lead the way.