MAGA hardliners are targeting the OPT program which allows foreign students, especially from India, to gain work experience in the US, arguing it unfairly replaces American jobs. The OPT program, seen as a pathway to H1-B visas, faces scrutiny, which may impact the influx of foreign students and overall academic and economic contributions.
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In 2023-24, a record number of Indian students utilized the OPT programme to build work experience in the US. Despite the rising MAGA rhetoric and potential policy changes, the demand for skilled professionals in fields like AI and biotechnology ensures continuing interest from Indian graduates.
The U.S. continues to be the top destination for Indian students in 2024, with a 21% increase in enrolments, reaching a record 331,602 students. This growth, especially in graduate programmes, is driven by the U.S.'s academic excellence, flexible education options, and valuable work experience opportunities like Optional Practical Training (OPT). Despite challenges like visa uncertainties, Indian students contribute significantly to the U.S. economy, highlighting the mutual benefits of this... Expand
Abel Tharayil, a 24-year-old from Thrissur, was found dead on a railway track in Stirling, Scotland, on March 12. British Transport Police ruled out foul play. His family, seeking further investigation, has approached authorities, including CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union minister Suresh Gopi.
Satyam Surana, an Indian student in the UK, criticizes his university for biased investigations of alleged hate campaigns during elections. He claims the university ignored key evidence, delayed the process, and justified discriminatory remarks against his Hindu identity as free speech. Surana alleges a systematic pattern of intolerance toward pro-India views in major global universities.
A 26-year-old Indian student, Nagasri Vandana Parimala, pursuing a master's in data science in Memphis, Tennessee, died in a car accident on Friday. Two of her friends traveling with her were seriously injured. Vandana had moved to the US in December 2022 and also worked at the University of Memphis.
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