From UPI in France to 5-Year Post-Study Work Visa for Indians: Highlights of PM’s Speech
Written by Sanjay Kumar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful speech to a massive gathering of Indian community members in Paris, where he made several significant announcements. One of the key highlights was the agreement reached for the utilization of the Unified Payments System (UPI) in France.
PM Modi also revealed plans to establish a new Indian consulate in Marseille, while bringing welcome news for Indian students pursuing master’s degrees in France, who will now be eligible for five-year post-study work visas, a considerable increase from the previous two-year visas.
During his hour-long address, PM Modi emphasized India’s rapid development and highlighted the nation’s evolving role and strength within the changing global order. He proudly shared the news of the UPI agreement in France, stating that the initiative would begin at the iconic Eiffel Tower. This development will enable Indian tourists to make payments in Indian rupees through the UPI system while visiting the Eiffel Tower.
In 2022, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the organization responsible for UPI services, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lyra, France’s fast and secure online payment system. UPI has already been adopted by countries such as the UAE, Bhutan, and Nepal. This year, UPI expanded its reach further by signing an agreement with Singapore’s PayNow, enabling cross-border transactions between the two countries. NPCI International is also in discussions to extend UPI services to the United States, other European nations, and West Asia.
Regarding the topic of post-study work visas for Indian students in France, PM Modi highlighted the progressive changes. Previously, Indian students were granted two-year visas, but now those pursuing master’s degrees will enjoy long-term post-study visas lasting five years. PM Modi expressed his fondness for France and revealed his long-standing connection, reminiscing about the establishment of a French cultural center in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, four decades ago, where he was the first member.
The prime minister further remarked on the increasing popularity of Indian languages worldwide, citing the recent use of the Tamil word “Thalaiva” (meaning “leader”) by Wimbledon to describe tennis legend Roger Federer. PM Modi appreciated the diversity of Indian languages and its recognition on a global scale.
During his two-day visit to France, Prime Minister Modi was given a warm reception, including a red-carpet welcome. He was bestowed with the highest honor of France, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour. As the Guest of Honour, PM Modi will join President Macron in the French National Day celebrations today.
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