The recent imposition of US visa bans on unnamed Indian travel agents is not just another diplomatic move ~ it is a stark reminder of the growing trust deficit surrounding migration practices in India. While the specifics remain undisclosed, the underlying message is clear: global tolerance for loosely regulated migration networks is wearing thin, and India must act decisively to address this reputational and humanitarian concern.

For decades, travel agencies have served as intermediaries between aspiration and opportunity, guiding countless Indians toward legitimate paths to foreign education, employment, and family reunification. However, a parallel ecosystem has quietly taken root ~ one that thrives on exploiting legal loopholes, manipulating documentation, and selling false promises. The fact that US authorities are now targeting not just smugglers, but also the ostensibly professional intermediaries, signals a turning point. India’s soft........

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