Despite the ongoing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, many Punjabi students are maintaining their optimism about their prospects in Canada, drawn by the promise of better opportunities and a favorable environment.
Sikander and Sukhjeet, a young couple from Punjab's Tarn Taran district, are poised to realize their dreams of settling in Canada. Sukhjeet has already obtained a Permanent Residency (PR). Despite the recent India-Canada tensions related to the Khalistani issue, 23-year-old Sikander, in an arranged marriage with 21-year-old Sukhjeet, remains resolute and unperturbed. He holds the belief that the tensions will subside with time.
When asked if they had concerns, both responded with a firm "No." While Sikander's brother resides in the United States, obtaining a Permanent Residency in the US has proven nearly impossible, making Canada a preferred destination, if not an alternative.
Sukhjeet strongly expresses his desire, stating, "I will do farming, but I want to be in Canada." He highlights the potential for work opportunities and the ability to earn more money in Canada within the same time frame compared to India.
Their family has set aside Rs 20 lakh for their studies and immigration to Canada. While they have doubts about the media's portrayal of the standoff, they acknowledge that there might be some truth in it. Nevertheless, they remain committed to their pre-determined plans, emphasizing that they cannot jeopardize their future based on a single news report.
At an IELTS center in Chandigarh, frequented by students aspiring to study abroad, particularly in Canada, this sentiment is echoed. Sonia Dhawan, who operates over 70 IELTS centers, describes Canada as a welcoming destination for Punjabis due to its immigrant-friendly environment, political stability, excellent education system, and job opportunities.
Statistics suggest that Punjabi students invest Rs 68,000 crore in education alone, with approximately 1.36 lakh students from Punjab out of 2.2 lakh visas choosing Canada as their top destination.
Punjab University introduced India Today TV to two cousins, Sandeep Singh and Sandeep Singh, who both acknowledge the limited job opportunities in the state, forcing them to consider relocating to Delhi or other cities for employment. Sandeep Singh, who has already been to Brampton in Canada, plans to return, while his younger cousin is preparing to depart for Canada in the near future. Both cousins dismiss the Khalistani controversy, asserting that common people have no time for it amidst their busy lives.
It's not only Punjabis but also students from Haryana who are increasingly aspiring to build their lives in Canada. Aman, a student from Haryana, highlights the appeal of Canada due to limited resources and challenging opportunities in India.
Amidst this backdrop, the Punjab-led AAP government has responded to the Indo-Canadian crisis. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema addressed concerns about Indian students in Canada, emphasizing that it's not only Punjabi students but also those from Haryana, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Punjab who are affected. He called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to engage in dialogue and swiftly resolve the crisis.
