Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. has triumphed over Donald Trump in the presidential elections, hence becoming the 46th US President. Kamala Devi Harris, Biden’s running mate, makes history as the first woman, and the first African- and Indian-American, to ever hold the Vice President’s position in the US. They are scheduled to be sworn into office on January 20th, 2021.
The American Presidential System versus the Indian Parliamentary System
In the US, the President is both the head of the State and head of Government. The Congress, or the legislature, makes laws, but the President possesses veto powers. The President serves a fixed four-year term, regardless of her/his party’s majority in the Congress, and along with the Vice President, is chosen by ‘electors’ via the Electoral College process.
In contrast, India follows the Parliamentary system. The President of India is the formal head while the Prime Minister, supported by the Council of Ministers, runs the national government. The President, voted indirectly by elected MPs and MLAs, serves a term of five years.
Economic Relations Between the United States and India
Under Biden’s administration, the dip in India’s trade with the US since 2017-18 could recover. Over the past two decades, India has always reported a trade surplus with the US, indicating that exports exceed imports. In the 2019-20 fiscal year, the goods and services exported from India to the US accounted for approximately 17% of all Indian exports, while imports totalled roughly 7.5% of all Indian imports.
The US sits as the fifth-largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India, contributing to one-third of all Foreign Portfolio Investments. In addition to the monetary benefits, Biden’s administration could also reconsider India’s exclusion from the US’ Generalized System of Preference (GSP).
The Issue of H-1B Visa
The perception of US Presidents on the H1-B visa issue significantly affects Indian youth’s prospects. However, Biden’s presidency may overrule Trump’s strict restrictions under his “America First” policy. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa permitting American companies to employ foreign workers specializing in theoretical or technical expertise.
Key Points of Contention and Potential Resolutions
The Biden administration might bring resolution to some issues, such as data localization or capping medicine prices. The US sanctions on Iran that greatly reduced India’s sourcing of inexpensive crude oil could potentially be revisited. Additionally, Biden is more likely to support India against China instead of categorizing the two countries together.
There are also prospects for Biden to rejoin the Paris Climate Accord. This initiative could assist countries like India facing significant challenges in environmental preservation.
Civil Liberties and Democratic Rights in India
Biden has expressed disappointment at the measures taken by the Indian Government regarding the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, as well as implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.
The Way Forward for India
India should anticipate engaging discussions on sensitive topics under Biden’s presidency. It is expected for a return to a rules-based trading system worldwide, departing from the protective approach that’s currently gaining strength. Provided with control of Covid infections and economic recovery, the US can offer a growth impulse to the global economy, benefiting countries like India in boosting exports and advancing growth.
Last Modified: February 9, 2024