Barack Obama has finally won the US presidential election. A BBC poll showed that most of the countries wanted Obama to win the elections. In India, these results are important as USA is important for our IT & ITES industry. In USA, outsourcing of jobs becomes an election issue.

The issue of outsourcing jobs to India was first raised by Obama in February last month he told his voters in an election rally that their jobs had been taken away by offshore companies set up in places like India and China. He further said that there was a need to end those tax breaks that go to companies that ship jobs overseas.

The total software and service market was about $63 billion for the financial year ending March 2008. Out of which, exports are over $ 40 billion and the domestic market is about $ 23 billion. During last financial year, US accounted for 67% of the total exports. If trend continues in this financial year, then total outsourcing to the US will be to the tune of $26.80 billion.

However, IT industry is not worried by such political statements. Indian IT industry has hailed Obama’s victory. Following are some of the important views of industry associations and leaders on this issue:

NASSCOM, an apex body representing India’s IT & ITES industry:

When Obama referred to outsourcing in context of migration of jobs, he was basically referring to the manufacturing sector. In IT & BPO sector there is a shortage of skilled manpower and hence India can help in it’s the growth of US economy.

Raman Roy, chairman and managing director of Quatrro and considered as father of Indian BPO industry:

Obama has said that everything is part of global economy. Outsourcing is a part of world economy. His first priority will be to tackle economic meltdown. I believe India can help in it.

Som Mittal, President, Nasscom:

NASSCOM shares many of the same economic and diplomatic goals outlined by President-elect Obama during the course of his campaign.  Specifically, we support expanding the H1B visa program so that highly skilled workers can help companies lead the way on innovation and contribute additional jobs and economic growth in the United States.