Nasscom is exploring the possibility of establishing a 'nearshore community software development centre' for small and medium enterprises to enable them to have access to global development offices.

"What we are mulling is can we set up a nearshore community development centre for software, preferably in some of the islands near the United States or Canada for SMEs who could use it for a period of three to six months and pay for the usage," Sunil Mehta, vice president, Nasscom told PTI.

Mehta said that while large companies like Wipro, Infosys could set up their own centres and could invest as much as they want, as many as 50 per cent of Indian IT industry would not have those kind of resources.

The proposed centre could be set up as an SPV (special purpose vehicle) of Nasscom, he said and added that the association would soon put the proposal before its members for their views.

"We are yet to take a decision on the proposal," he said. Amid concerns over visa issues and growing sentiments against outsourcing to India by global companies, he said Nasscom's message to its members was a three-pronged approach.

"The Indian IT industry should communicate relentlessly that it makes global economy more competitive. So far we have focussed on India Inc, that India is a good place to do software development and research and development. Now we are saying India helps your economy stay stronger," he said.

Referring to the recurring cases of alleged visa norms violations, Mehta advised the Indian IT industry to be extra cautious about visas and permits and understanding of the regulations.

"They (Indian IT companies) also have to become more global in their approach, in terms of more distribution delivery centres and more recruitment of the local talents," Mehta said.

There have been rising concerns in the past few months over resistance from US states over outsourcing certain jobs to developing countries including India.

Even Indian IT professionals have been detained in several countries such as Malaysia and UK over alleged visa violations.

On the recent issue of restricting Indian L1 visa holders to visit the client site in US, Nasscom said there would be no immediate impact on the industry and if any it would be seen in the next two to three years.