Indian diaspora group backs H-1B scrutiny but warns against innovation risks

The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) has endorsed the Trump administration's move to tighten scrutiny of H-1B visa applications, acknowledging legitimate concerns about programme misuse and the protection of American workers and economic interests.

"FIIDS appreciates and understands the Administration's intent to protect America's national and economic interests, safeguard American workers, and address abuse of the H-1B programme," said Khanderao Kand, Chief of Policy and Strategy at FIIDS, in a statement on Friday. The remarks came hours after US President Donald Trump announced enhanced oversight of the visa scheme, which he argued has been widely exploited by certain employers, particularly IT outsourcing firms.

However, FIIDS cautioned that tightened restrictions should not compromise the United States' ability to attract specialised talent. The organisation noted that certain high-skilled positions cannot always be filled immediately from the existing domestic labour pool, and that America's competitive advantage as a leading innovation economy depends on its capacity to recruit exceptional global talent.

The H-1B visa programme, which permits US employers to hire foreign workers in specialised occupations, has long been a contentious issue balancing business needs against domestic employment concerns. FIIDS's statement reflects broader concerns within the Indian-American community about how regulatory changes may affect employment opportunities for skilled professionals.