I don't think the article addresses the core issue in that how can the Govt protect 5,000 odd student pilots for jobs that don't exist or are not qualified for? No one doubts the fact that expats will be phased out eventually, but only as the Indian pilots gain their experience, hours, and command. Until then, protecting the jobs of these lads/ladies does not seem particularly relevant. Now if the Govt wants to pay their salaries while they wait, that's a different story. If there is a surplus of low time F/O's, there will be a wait time for employment for many new graduates from flying schools. I think most expats are realistic in their expections of being here. I think submitting a plan of training etc seems to be more of a polictical move.