Impact of US Policy on H-1B Visa Applicants
US President Donald Trump’s order imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applicants threatens global talent and may lead to a brain drain from US laboratories and startups. These measures increase operational costs for companies and limit access to specialized skills, which in turn hampers innovation.
Implications for India
- The US risks losing its leadership in technology and entrepreneurship to emerging economies, with the Global South poised to drive two-thirds of global growth in the upcoming decades.
- This creates an opportunity for India to attract skilled professionals, senior clinicians, technical experts, and founders.
Requirements for Attracting Talent Back to India
- India needs to develop cities that offer quality healthcare, clean air and water, reliable public transport, affordable housing, world-class research institutions, and predictable regulation.
Challenges and Strategies for Indian Urban Development
- Currently, 15 Indian cities contribute to 30% of India's GDP. Improving these cities can boost growth and help India achieve a $30 trillion-plus economy by 2047.
- Challenges include air pollution, water scarcity, urban flooding, garbage accumulation, and governance issues.
- Proposed solutions include:
- Electrification of public transport and strict regulation of construction dust to combat pollution.
- Waste Management: Only 25% of solid waste is scientifically processed; investment in infrastructure and accountability policies is vital.
- Water Management: Address acute water shortages through large-scale water reuse and improved transmission efficiency.
- Urban Planning: Increase Floor Space Index (FSI) to reduce urban sprawl and improve land usage.
Successful Models and Future Prospects
Indore’s Example: Efficient waste management and water resilience as a model for other cities.
India's urbanization is crucial for its prosperity. By 2030, 350 million people will move to cities, and urban growth will account for 73% of the population increase by 2036.
Conclusion: India must prioritize sustainable urbanization to become a global economic leader and ensure a high quality of life for its citizens.