America at 250: Caught between hope and doubt

Across business, medicine, academia, technology, and public life, Indian Americans are one of America’s most visible immigrant success stories. But today, there’s unease. Indian festivals have recently been facing hostility. Long green card backlogs, uncertainty over the H-1B visa, and a rise in anti-Indian hate have deepened anxieties. The Carnegie Endowment’s 2026 survey describes the community as going through a period of “turbulence”, with roughly 40% saying they have considered leaving the United States. As America marks 250 years of independence, anxiety coexists with an enduring faith in American opportunity. Six prominent members of the community weigh in:Vivek Wadhwa

CEO, Vionix Biosciences

For the first time, Indian Americans have become the target of hatred and resentment. This is coming from both extreme left and extreme right, so I would not say the situation is great.

Vivek Wadhwa

Moreover, America is closing its doors to the people who have helped it maintain its global lead. Regardless, the country will reinvent itself as it always does.Jagdish N. Sheth