“Both countries share a robust and evolving economic and technological partnership, where the mobility of skilled professionals plays a vital role,” Jaiswal stated during a press conference. He added, “India-US ties greatly benefit from the technical expertise of skilled professionals, leveraging mutual strengths for shared growth. We look forward to deepening this collaboration further.”
The H-1B visa programme has become a contentious issue, particularly among supporters of incoming US President Donald Trump. While Trump’s campaign rhetoric often focused on curbing low-skilled and illegal immigration, debates over skilled worker immigration gained prominence. MAGA hardliners have called for an outright ban on hiring skilled workers from countries like India, arguing that H-1B visas displace American workers and undermine Western values.
Also read: Trump’s H-1B Tightrope Walk: Silicon Valley dreams crash into MAGA reality
However, prominent figures like Trump, Elon Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy have defended the programme, emphasising its importance in filling workforce gaps and maintaining the US’s technological edge. Indian nationals, who receive the majority of H-1B visas, are seen as essential in addressing the talent shortage and driving innovation in the US.
Despite this, fiscal year 2024 has seen a decline in H-1B sponsorships by top companies. In fiscal 2023, Indian nationals accounted for 72.3% of the 386,000 H-1B visas issued, followed by Chinese nationals at 11.7%.
OPT Programme Also Under Fire
In addition to the H-1B visa, MAGA nativists are targeting the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, which allows international students to work temporarily after graduation. Critics argue that OPT takes jobs away from new American graduates.
The programme is a key pathway for Indian students, the largest group of international students in the US, to transition to H-1B visas. Many Indian students, especially those in STEM fields, use the OPT programme, including its STEM extension, to secure employment opportunities.
For the 2023-24 academic year, 97,556 Indian students—29% of all Indian students in the US—were enrolled in OPT, a significant rise from 69,062 the previous year. As debates continue, the role of skilled professionals remains central to the India-US economic relationship.
Also read: ‘H-1B visas vital for US talent gap despite political pushback’
