📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Jebulon
International
India-Canada ties strengthen, possible boost to Punjabi PR immigration quota
✍️ Amar Ujala · Punjab
🗓 18 Oct 2026, 11:31 AM
👁 25
Improved diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Ottawa may raise the annual permanent‑resident quota for Punjabi migrants, officials said after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Canada’s foreign minister.
New Delhi and Ottawa have taken steps to deepen bilateral ties, highlighted by a recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canada’s foreign minister. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation across trade, technology and people‑to‑people links.
During the talks, Canadian officials indicated a willingness to review the current permanent‑resident (PR) allocation for Indian nationals, with a particular emphasis on applicants from Punjab. Canada’s annual immigration target of over 400,000 permanent residents could see a larger share earmarked for Punjabi candidates if the proposal is approved.
Both governments described the development as a "good news" for the Punjabi diaspora, which has long contributed to Canada’s economy and cultural fabric. While no final numbers were disclosed, the potential increase signals a broader effort to strengthen economic and social ties between the two countries.
The meeting also touched upon other areas of collaboration, including renewable energy projects and academic exchanges, underscoring a comprehensive approach to the renewed partnership.
During the talks, Canadian officials indicated a willingness to review the current permanent‑resident (PR) allocation for Indian nationals, with a particular emphasis on applicants from Punjab. Canada’s annual immigration target of over 400,000 permanent residents could see a larger share earmarked for Punjabi candidates if the proposal is approved.
Both governments described the development as a "good news" for the Punjabi diaspora, which has long contributed to Canada’s economy and cultural fabric. While no final numbers were disclosed, the potential increase signals a broader effort to strengthen economic and social ties between the two countries.
The meeting also touched upon other areas of collaboration, including renewable energy projects and academic exchanges, underscoring a comprehensive approach to the renewed partnership.