India, which sent nearly 3,30,000 students to the U.S. in the 2023–24 academic year, could be one of the countries most impacted by this move. International students in the U.S. contribute significantly to the American economy, with their annual economic impact estimated at $43.8 billion, according to the NAFSA: Association of International Educators.“The welfare of Indian students abroad remains a top priority for the Government of India,” Jaiswal added. “While the issuance of visas is a sovereign function, we hope that the applications of Indian students will be considered on merit and that they will be able to join their academic programs on time.”India also rejected any link between US. tariffs and recent ceasefire discussions with Pakistan. This came in response to the US administration submitting before a New York federal court in a written filing that President Donald Trump used trade access as an incentive to “avert a full-scale war” between India and Pakistan and brokered a ceasefire.“From the time Operation Sindoor commenced on May 7 till the time of cessation on May 10, there was conversation between India and the US. But the issue of tariffs never came up in these discussions,” Jaiswal clarified.He also addressed a question on Marco Rubio suggesting visa restrictions for officials from countries accused of censoring Americans. “We are aware of the comments and are evaluating the implications for Indian officials. Visa policies are sovereign matters, and we respect that principle,” he said.The MEA spokesperson also confirmed that since January 2025, approximately 1,080 Indian nationals have been deported from the US, with 62% returning on commercial flights. The government reiterated that nationality is verified before repatriation to ensure proper procedure.
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