 Early Times Report
SONIPAT, Feb 27: The Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Gaurav Gautam, inaugurated a statewide campaign titled *"How to Avoid Visa Fraud"* at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology (DCRUST), Murthal. The campaign aims to educate Haryana's youth about the risks of visa fraud and illegal migration.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Gautam emphasized that some fraudulent agents are exploiting young people by promising illegal routes to foreign countries, leading to financial loss, mental trauma, and even physical exploitation. "Hard work has no substitute, and shortcuts never ensure a secure future," he warned. He highlighted that the Haryana government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nayab Saini, is working to ensure safe and legal migration pathways. The state has established a Foreign Cooperation Department and is focusing on skill development and foreign language training to empower youth.
Gautam urged students to verify the authenticity of agents before making payments and to rely on official sources for visa information. He also called on the youth to uphold India's and Haryana's cultural values as brand ambassadors wherever they go.
Principal Secretary of the Haryana Government, Aminat P Kumar, advised students to approach only authorized and registered agents and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Simon Redlough, Permanent Home Secretary, UK, stated that the campaign reflects the UK's commitment to providing accurate information to applicants. "The UK respects the aspirations of applicants and no one should fall victim to fraud," he said.
Alba Smeriglio, British Deputy High Commissioner in Chandigarh, emphasized that preventing irregular migration and exploitation is a shared priority for India and the UK. She highlighted the launch of a Hindi-supported WhatsApp chatbot to help people identify and avoid visa fraud.
Lindsey Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said the campaign will strengthen India-UK relations and provide opportunities for Indian youth to study and work in the UK.
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