India Engages with US on Long-Awaited Social Security Agreement

India's Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, announced ongoing dialogues with the US regarding a totalisation pact, aimed at easing social security contributions for expatriates. Despite existing challenges due to large financial dimensions, detailed discussions continue, with progress expected over time. This agreement could significantly benefit many Indian professionals in the US.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India's continued commitment to dialogue with the United States over a long-pending social security agreement, acknowledging the complexity of resolving such a significant financial issue. Speaking to reporters, Goyal noted that this dialogue has dragged on for years, recognizing it will not resolve overnight.

The proposed totalisation agreement aims to alleviate expatriates from redundant social security contributions in their host countries, significantly benefiting Indian professionals, particularly in the IT sector, working in the US. Goyal highlighted that the details of India's social security coverage, which extend to over 930 million citizens, have been comprehensively shared with the Biden administration.

During his recent visit to the US, Goyal co-chaired significant bilateral forums and dialogues. Issues ranging from trade dynamics to critical mineral collaborations with the US were discussed, including India's customs duty policies and the shift of major companies like Apple to base operations in India, further reinforcing Indo-US economic relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)