Immigration and Talent Retention Central to US‑India Strategic Outlook

During his speech, Representative Ro Khanna linked America’s immigration policy directly to its capacity to lead in artificial intelligence and advanced technology. He noted that 38% of the world’s top AI researchers have Chinese heritage and that 72% earned degrees abroad, illustrating the global nature of innovation.

Khanna argued that the Trump‑era restrictions undermine the United States’ reputation as a destination for skilled immigrants, especially at a time when competition for talent is intensifying. He called for a revamp of immigration rules to ensure that the country remains the magnet for inventors, engineers and entrepreneurs who drive economic growth.

He reiterated that a robust US‑India partnership should reflect shared commitments to liberty, self‑determination and multiculturalism, allowing both democracies to thrive through the free flow of ideas and people.