Amitabh Kant, the former CEO of NITI Aayog, has weighed in on the proposed $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas by US President Donald Trump. Kant believes this move could significantly impact American innovation, stating it would “stifle American innovation while boosting India’s talent-driven growth.”
He articulated that by restricting global talent, the US might inadvertently push crucial advancements – from laboratories and patents to entirely new startups – towards Indian cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Gurgaon. Kant summarized this potential shift as “America’s loss becoming India’s gain.”
“India’s finest Doctors, engineers, scientists, innovators have an opportunity to contribute to India’s growth & progress towards #ViksitBharat. America’s loss will be India’s gain,” Kant posted on X, highlighting the potential benefits for India’s development.
The Trump administration’s proposal, announced on Friday, targets the technology sector, which heavily relies on skilled professionals from India and China. This policy shift represents a key element of President Trump’s broader immigration crackdown since taking office. While aiming to prioritize American workers, the increased fees could reshape the landscape for skilled immigration and international talent flow.
In response to the announcement, companies like Microsoft and JPMorgan have reportedly advised their employees on H-1B visas to remain in the United States, with specific instructions for those currently abroad to return before the new fee structure takes effect on Saturday. The proposed changes have already generated considerable discussion within the tech industry, which has been a significant contributor to various political campaigns.