India Steps Up Efforts to Lure Back Professionals Amid U.S. Visa Changes
India is stepping up efforts to attract its professionals abroad back home, with a focus on scientists and academics. The country is exploring various strategies to reverse the 'brain drain', with officials believing that U.S. policy shifts may encourage more Indians to return.
India, which accounted for over 70% of H-1B visa holders in 2024, sees the Trump administration's $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas as a significant disruption. Indian tech companies are now reconsidering their staffing and outsourcing models in the U.S. due to the increased cost of hiring foreign technical talent.
To lure back its professionals, India is boosting funding, infrastructure, and institutional prestige. Government sources reveal discussions on direct recruitment and incentive packages for top researchers, engineers, and entrepreneurs. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship are key players in implementing this strategy.
Experts stress that more than just incentives are needed. They suggest reforms in taxation, reduction of red tape, and a more supportive startup ecosystem. India's expansive growth in Global Capability Centres (GCCs) also offers pathways for returnees to lead high-value work without relocating.
Reversing 'brain drain' has proven challenging, but India is committed to attracting its professionals back. With the U.S. policy shifts and India's strategic initiatives, the country is hopeful that many of its skilled diaspora will return. However, the success of this 'lure-back' strategy will depend on sustained policy commitment and structural changes in India's science, technology, and industrial ecosystems.
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