Padma Shri awardee says his father might have hesitated to send him to the US in the current environment
Ajay Bhatt, the Indian-origin inventor behind the iconic Universal Serial Bus (USB) and a recent recipient of the Padma Shri, was honoured at a special event at Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU), his alma mater. During the event, he expressed concerns about the present-day challenges faced by Indian students aspiring to study in the United States, reported gujaratsamachar.com.
Bhatt highlighted the visa struggles and career uncertainties faced by Indian students in the US today, stating that his own father might not have allowed him to go abroad under current conditions.
“When I went to study in the US, the environment was welcoming, full of opportunities,” Bhatt told the media. “Today, students struggle for visas and even job interviews. My father might have been reluctant to send me if this was the situation back then. I’m surprised at how much the US has changed,” the report quoted Bhatt as saying.
The veteran tech innovator warned that restrictive immigration policies could have long-term effects on global research and industry. “Students from India and other countries have contributed immensely to fields like IT, AI, and genetics. These restrictions on foreign talent could hinder innovation. Only President Trump can say how long this situation will continue,” he added.
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Despite the changing environment, Bhatt emphasized that Indian Americans continue to enjoy high regard in the US
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“Indians are viewed as hardworking and value-driven. We’re the wealthiest minority in America and have played a crucial role in its development. I don’t believe there’s hatred or insecurity towards Indians.”
Speaking on the legacy of his invention, Bhatt shared, “It’s incredible that the USB is still widely used 30 years later. Though wireless technology is growing, USB will still be needed for another 10–15 years. I didn’t take any money for inventing it—and I don’t regret it. I was raised by a professor; my goal was to make an impact, not profit. I now hold over 200 patents and live a peaceful retired life, occasionally guiding those who seek advice.”
He also addressed the rising influence of AI and the urgent need for policy planning. “AI will transform lives in the next 10–15 years. It will impact jobs and require people to learn new skills. Every tech revolution brings disruption. I hope the Indian government is preparing for this shift with the right policies,” he concluded.