Could India be in a state of denial?

BPO industry unfazed by Obama's remarks

Rati Ramdas Sunday, August 31, 2008 (Bangalore)

Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama may have made his stand on outsourcing clear. He had said if elected he would stop tax breaks to companies that indulge in outsourcing. However, has that statement actually had any impact on the BPO industry in India? In Denver, Barack Obama may have been applauded for his views against outsourcing but this statement hasn't scared BPOs in India. People like Pushpender who has worked in the BPO firm for almost five years said, all this is just election gimmick and the industry is here to stay. "Talks about it just being a prelude to elections, too valuable an industry to actually let go off people," said Pushpender Singh Yadav, BPO employee. A view echoed by Naascom that's keeping a close watch on the American elections though. "We are definitely watching closely but we really don't think our jobs or the industry is at any risk. We are confident of our skills and technological expertise and know we will always be an asset for the American market as well," said Sucharita Eashwar, Regional Director, Naascom. But what if Obama wins the election? It's not that simple, even if he gets to the White House there is a long procedure, there will definitely be no impact and it will fizzle out," said Lathika Pai, CEO, Fides Global Consultant. While Obama's anti-outsourcing speech has definitely made it to conversations in the city, most people say it will not shut down the BPO industry. Experts feel that this is Obama playing to the gallery before the elections.