Sridhar Vembu Encourages H-1B Indians to Return Home, Rebuild
Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu urged Indian tech professionals on new H-1B visas in the United States to consider returning to India. Writing on X, he said rebuilding may take five years but would make them stronger. He encouraged them: “Do not live in fear. Make the bold move.”
Fee Hike Details & Scope
The U.S. government recently introduced a sharp hike in the H-1B visa fee — US $100,000 for new applications. Importantly, this does not apply to existing H-1B visa holders or to renewals.
Partition Analogy & Historical Message
Vembu compared the situation to the struggles faced by Sindhi families during the 1947 Partition of India, who lost everything but rebuilt their lives. He said today’s H-1B visa holders should view their challenge as an opportunity to return home and contribute to India’s growth.
Industry & Personal Impact
The announcement of the new fee has triggered concern among Indian professionals abroad, with many worried about future prospects. Vembu’s remarks align with wider discussions about a possible reverse brain drain, where Indian talent abroad returns home amid global policy shifts.
