Chandigarh, August 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh on Thursday said the state government will make every possible effort to safeguard the interests of Punjabi students facing difficulties in Canada over post-study work permit issues.
Expressing concern over the situation, Dr. Ravjot Singh said nearly 1,500 students have been affected and the Punjab Government is closely monitoring the matter to understand their problems and extend necessary support.
The minister said he has written to Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar seeking an appointment to discuss the issue and urged the Government of India to take up the matter with Canadian authorities through diplomatic channels for timely relief to affected students.
“These are our children who went to Canada after spending around Rs 20 lakh each with hopes of building a better future. They were assured that after completing their two-year academic programmes, they would become eligible for post-study work permits. However, widespread refusal of permits has pushed many students into serious mental, financial and legal difficulties,” Dr. Ravjot Singh said.
He added that several affected students have approached him directly for assistance and assured that the Punjab Government is committed to addressing their concerns with sensitivity.
The minister said many students have already approached the Federal Court of Canada through legal channels. If required, the state government will explore the possibility of arranging common legal assistance for affected students by engaging suitable legal experts to reduce their financial burden.
Dr. Ravjot Singh also appealed to Members of Parliament of Punjabi origin in Canada to rise above political differences and jointly raise the issue before the Canadian Government.
He reiterated that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, will continue coordinating with the Union Government and other stakeholders to protect the interests of Punjabis and Punjabi students settled abroad.
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