GOI stay visas of huge benefit to Afghan refugees

The Government of India's initiative of granting long stay visas to refugees from Afghanistan has played a positive role in providing expatriates better access to basic facilities.

There are around 10,300 Afghan refugees registered by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), who are staying in India currently.

So far, the Government of India has provided stay visas to 750 Afghan nationals, while 3,900 applications are still being processed.

Romal Ameri, an Afghan refugee who has been in India for the past ten years, expressed his happiness at being able to complete his master's degree. He said he is currently working as a graphic visualizer in Delhi.

"Staying in India,I have been able to complete my education. I have completed my master's degree. Currently, I am working with a multinational company in Delhi," said Ameri.

The UNHCR is working closely with the Government of India to facilitate Afghans seeking refuge.

UNHCR senior protection officer Kavita Belani said, "While India over the past three decades or more has displayed generosity and warmth to Afghan refugees seeking safety and sanctuary, as of now, there are 10,300 Afghan refugees who have been registered by the UNHCR. Over the years, the government has continued to provide stay visas for most Afghan refugees. This administrative policy and practice of the Government of India to issue stay visas is a positive development."

India, a close ally to Afghanistan, is helping to rebuild the war-torn country. (ANI)

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