Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent call for Big Tech to “hire Americans”—not Indians—has sent ripples of concern through India’s student and professional communities, particularly those eyeing opportunities in the United States. The statement underscores a growing convergence of tightening U.S. immigration policies and rapid AI-driven disruption in the global job market.
Akshat Shrivastava, finfluencer and founder of Wisdom Hatch, took to X (formerly Twitter) to sound the alarm for Indian aspirants. “AI is eating jobs in general. But first, it will eat jobs that would be given to immigrants,” he warned. Shrivastava added that only a tiny fraction of “exceptional” individuals—like AI entrepreneur Aravind Srinivas or former Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal—may continue to thrive in the U.S. under such constraints.
The sentiment reflects recent developments surrounding the U.S. H-1B visa program, which has long served as a gateway for Indian IT professionals. With increased scrutiny and unpredictable approval outcomes, immigration attorneys are now advising caution—even discouraging overseas travel for visa holders—given the risk of reentry denials or employment disruptions.
Shrivastava emphasized the need for a mindset shift among Indian youth and professionals. “It is their land, they set the rules,” he said, urging a more pragmatic outlook rather than blame. He also criticized India’s current economic climate, pointing to high tax burdens on the country’s top earners. Under India’s 2025 tax regime, incomes above ₹24 lakh are taxed at 30%, with limited relief for the middle class. According to Shrivastava, this has created a two-speed economy: “Anyone who can escape, tries to. Anyone who is left, is taxed to death.”
As a solution, he advocates for Indians to pivot toward “tax-efficient” and globally mobile career paths. Freelancing, digital services, remote consulting, and one-person agency models in areas like AI, personal finance, and design offer greater control over income and tax liability.
“In this new world,” Shrivastava said, “agility, specialization, and remote leverage are key. Geography is becoming less relevant—but only if you build the right skills.”
Recent Random Post:
