Zoho Corporation founder Sridhar Vembu has issued an open invitation to Indian technology professionals working in the United States to return home and contribute to India's domestic growth. This call to action follows the recent decision by the US government to suspend the Permanent Labour Certification (PERM) programme for several major technology companies, including Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Wipro, HCL Technologies, and Cognizant, as well as firms like Microsoft and Adobe.
The PERM process is a critical component for employees seeking employer-sponsored green cards. In a post shared on social media platform X, Mr. Vembu acknowledged the significant impact Indian professionals have had on American technological advancement over the past several decades. However, he noted that a portion of the US population and administration appears increasingly unwelcoming toward foreign workers. He expressed concern for those currently on visas who now face the prospect of uprooting the lives they established through years of dedicated effort.
The US Department of Labour's move is part of a broader crackdown on skilled-worker immigration programmes, with officials citing concerns regarding potential job losses for American citizens and claims of fraud. While the freeze currently impacts the green card application path, reports indicate that holders of H-1B visas are not directly affected by this specific suspension. The regulatory action also encompasses investigations into nine elite universities in the United States.
Addressing the uncertainty faced by Indian workers abroad, Mr. Vembu framed the situation as a potential turning point for the domestic talent pool. He described the current climate as the “birth pains of a bold new future” and urged professionals to consider relocating to India to help build the nation’s technological infrastructure. The call reflects ongoing discussions regarding the security of foreign workers in the US tech sector, as companies navigate these newly implemented labour restrictions.
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