The H-1B Visa Debate: Balancing Economic Needs, National Interests, and Immigration Policy
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (Bilateral relations - India-US); Indian Economy (Indian Diaspora, Remittances, Service Sector Exports); Current events.
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests; The role of Indian diaspora.
General Studies Paper 3 (Economy): Indian Economy and issues relating to employment; Effects of liberalization on the economy.
Key Highlights from the News
The USA's new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applicants has sparked major debates about the visa system.
US Government's Argument (Opponents):
H-1B visas are misused to displace U.S. workers by hiring foreign workers at lower wages.
This makes it difficult for American STEM graduates to find jobs.
Counter-Argument (H-1B Supporters):
H-1B visas bring in workers with specialized talent not available in the US.
They complement U.S. workers, not displace them.
Immigrants like Elon Musk and Sundar Pichai started new ventures in the US, creating thousands of jobs.
H-1B also helps fill worker shortages in essential sectors like medicine.
This policy change primarily affects India, as 71% of H-1B visa beneficiaries are Indians.
H-1B reforms have bipartisan support in the US, indicating it's a major political issue, not just an individual's decision.
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