Washington, Dec 11 (NationPress) The crucial role played by Indian Americans in fortifying the US–India partnership was highlighted during a Congressional hearing, despite lawmakers' strong criticism of the Trump administration's policies regarding visas, immigration pathways, and bilateral relations.

During the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia's hearing regarding the US–India strategic partnership on Wednesday (local time), Committee Chairman Bill Huizenga noted that over 5 million Indian Americans significantly enrich the American economy, stating, "They serve in our military, they lead major companies," and described the diaspora as "a living bridge of shared values, democratic principles and economic opportunity."

He presented a letter from the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce commending the hearing and emphasizing that the relationship is "not just a diplomatic one, but rather a living bridge."

Dhruva Jaishankar from ORF America provided insightful economic data, indicating that Indian-origin investors, entrepreneurs, students, doctors, and researchers contribute "over $200 billion to the US economy" and support "at least 830,000 American jobs across all 50 states and territories."

However, the hearing also included stark warnings. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove denounced the administration's imposition of a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, which are predominantly held by Indians, calling it "a rebuke of the incredible contributions Indians have made" to America's scientific and economic success. She argued that such actions "undermine the people-to-people ties between the US and India."

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, the first Indian American woman in Congress, shared her perspective, stating that legal immigration pathways are being "shut down," recalling her own experience on a student visa and later an H-1B. She mentioned receiving feedback from constituents about increasing "anti-Indian hate," asserting that "Indian Americans are vital to our economy, an integral part of our society… leading groundbreaking research to save lives."

Jayapal cautioned that tariffs and visa restrictions could potentially "push India closer" to alliances like BRICS and the SCO, noting that Indian businesses in her state consider tariff hikes as "the greatest threat to their business in over 120 years."

Sameer Lalwani alerted lawmakers that hostility toward Indian students, technologists, and scientists could negatively impact US innovation. "I would be concerned about the deterrence of students, scientists, and Indian businesses… that we have encountered on our own technological prowess," he stated.

The testimony underscored that beyond defense and geopolitics, the Indian American community stands as one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation and remains particularly vulnerable to political decisions in Washington.