The recent deportation of 104 Indian nationals from the U.S. underscores the Trump administration’s hardline immigration policies in his second term. These individuals, who entered the country illegally, were forcibly repatriated on a U.S. military aircraft, restrained in handcuffs and shackles throughout the gruelling journey. Many had invested their life savings in pursuit of the American dream, only to be abruptly expelled, facing an uncertain future upon return.
Trump’s crackdown has escalated with the reinstatement of the 287(g) program, which empowers local law enforcement to identify and detain undocumented immigrants. While the administration frames this as a law-and-order priority, the human cost is undeniable. Deportees grapple with financial devastation, psychological distress, and the daunting challenge of reintegration.
As the U.S. tightens its grip on illegal migration, striking a balance between border security and humanitarian considerations remains imperative. The broader question persists: how can immigration policies uphold national sovereignty while respecting the dignity and aspirations of those seeking a better life?
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World at the International Conference on Empowering Future, hosted by Jaipuria School of Business, Manjeev Singh Puri, former Indian Ambassador to Nepal, dissects the geopolitical ramifications of these Indo-U.S. developments. He examines the impact of Trump’s deportation agenda on India’s domestic policies and international relations, while advocating for strategic policy measures to address similar migration challenges emerging from India’s neighbouring countries.
Beyond immigration, Puri highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat the growing carbon footprint. He stresses the critical importance of adopting eco-friendly practices to ensure a greener and safer planet. Here are the key takeaways from his insightful discussion.
Q: What are the geopolitical implications of the recent Indo-US developments on the deportation of illegal migrants from the U.S. to India?
A: India and the United States share a robust, deeply entrenched partnership—one poised for even greater momentum, especially with the Prime Minister’s visit and direct engagement.
The issue of migration and deportation has long been a focal point, with the U.S., particularly under President Trump, adopting a firm stance. From the outset, we made it clear: any Indian nationals subject to deportation would be repatriated.
Deportations have been ongoing for years. In 2024 alone, the U.S. deported 1,000 individuals. I fully recognize public concerns, particularly regarding the use of a military aircraft for repatriation. These concerns are understandable.
However, in the grander scheme, the India-U.S. relationship is not just important—it is pivotal. It holds immense strategic significance for both nations and the world at large. I have no doubt that this partnership will only continue to strengthen.
Q: With Trump’s deportation agenda now being implemented, what impact do you foresee on domestic policies and international relations?
A: Countries in Latin America share a fundamentally different relationship with the United States. Their demographic presence is significantly larger, making their influence more pronounced. In U.S. elections, Latino voters have played a decisive role. Today, they form the second-largest population group in the country, shaping its political and social landscape.
Their relationship with the U.S. is largely driven by geographic proximity. In contrast, India’s ties with the U.S. rest on shared values, economic interdependence, and aligned political and geopolitical interests.
Over the past 15 to 20 years, this partnership has deepened. With the Prime Minister’s visit, I am confident it will only grow stronger.
Q: Given India’s role as a destination for illegal migrants from neighbouring countries, what policy measures should the government implement to address this challenge effectively?
A: We are a nation with a deep-rooted history of compassion, yet we are not signatories to the UN Convention on Refugees. Despite this, India has consistently opened its doors to those in distress. History proves this. During Bangladesh’s creation, we welcomed nearly 12 million refugees.
Our nation has always extended a helping hand in times of crisis. When the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, we provided refuge to those fleeing persecution. However, we cannot allow unrestricted entry for all.
India balances sovereignty with humanity. We act decisively on humanitarian matters, guided by a strong moral compass and an unwavering commitment to those in need.
Q: Shifting the focus from deportation to the broader global challenge of a rising carbon footprint, what are your thoughts on the sustainability approach needed to address this crisis?
A: Reducing the carbon footprint isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential to preventing a larger planetary disaster. One of the most critical areas demanding action is electricity. Experts agree: the best way forward is to electrify all activities and, just as importantly, ensure that electricity generation becomes entirely green.
Of course, this is easier said than done. Yet, India has taken bold strides in this direction. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Glasgow summit and committed India to achieving Net Zero by 2070, he set a clear national agenda for sustainability.
India is leading one of the world’s largest green hydrogen missions. We have pioneered solar power adoption and electric vehicles, playing a pivotal role in driving global solar energy affordability. Without India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance, solar power prices wouldn’t have dropped as dramatically as they have.
Two decades ago, installing solar panels seemed economically unfeasible—solar energy was far more expensive than thermal power. But today, thanks to technological advancements and policy interventions, the latest Indian solar auctions have yielded prices on par with thermal power.
These shifts underscore a larger transformation underway. For future business leaders, integrating sustainability isn’t optional—it’s a strategic imperative. Embrace it with conviction, and your passion will align seamlessly with the evolving priorities of your company and the world.
Q: What message would you like to convey to stakeholders, including the youth, about the urgency of adopting sustainable practices for a greener and safer planet?
A: For many, climate action and sustainable development feel like abstract economic concepts—tied to costs and market shifts rather than immediate realities. Ask someone to switch from a fossil-fuel car to an electric vehicle, and their first question will likely be, How much will it cost me? If the price is too high, they dismiss it as impractical.
But the moment sustainability becomes personal—when they see its impact on their health, their homes, and their daily lives—the perspective shifts. Suddenly, it’s no longer a distant policy discussion but an urgent, tangible concern. At that point, waiting for governments or global initiatives to take action is no longer an option. Every delay turns what should be shared public costs into private burdens that individuals and communities must bear.
I’m encouraged to see my colleagues in the petroleum sector acknowledge this reality. The challenge isn’t just about changing the energy mix—though that’s crucial. It’s about recognizing a deeper truth: the expiration date on carbon is already written on the wall. You can choose to read it now and act, or you can ignore it and pretend it isn’t there. But denial won’t change the outcome.
For the next generation, sustainability isn’t just an ideal—it’s a necessity. Make it part of your mindset, integrate it into your decisions, and you’ll not only secure a better future for yourself but also uplift your community and safeguard the planet.
