A growing number of Indian engineers and entrepreneurs are returning home from the US, attracted by the rapid growth and fresh opportunities in India’s technology sector. Kunal Bahl, once set on a career in Silicon Valley, had his US visa rejected in 2007. Back in India, he co-founded Snapdeal, now one of the country’s most valued startups. He is part of a broader trend of returnees—some by choice, others due to US visa restrictions—who are finding that India offers potential even greater than Silicon Valley.
With only about 19% of the population having Internet access, India’s digital market has vast potential. The economy is growing at over 7% annually, and the startup ecosystem is attracting major investments. Companies like Flipkart, Zomato, and Snapdeal have drawn interest from global investors. Big names such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon are establishing strong presences in India as well.
Indian tech startups are not only flourishing but also offering competitive salaries and growth opportunities. Lower labor costs, a rich talent pool, and a large market make India ideal for tech ventures. Though many still appreciate their time in the US, they find India more rewarding professionally. Despite bureaucratic hurdles, the excitement of driving innovation at home is strong.
As more Indian talent opts to return and build companies locally, the reverse migration reflects a shift in global tech dynamics. While it may be a challenge for the US, it represents a golden era for India’s tech scene.
