Washington: The Indian-American community, which has grown to five million in 2023, has emerged as one of the most influential immigrant groups in the United States. A report released Thursday highlighted their journey as motivated immigrants and their children pursuing the American dream.
“Indian Americans account for only 1.5 per cent of the US population, yet they continue to have an outsized and positive impact across different aspects of US society,” noted Indiaspora founder MR Rangaswami.
According to the “Indiaspora Impact Report: Small Community, Big Contributions” by Boston Consulting Group, Indian Americans have significantly influenced public service, business, culture, and innovation in the US. Their economic impact is substantial, from founding major companies to enhancing the national tax base, showcasing their resilience and contributions to their new homeland.
CEOs of Indian origin lead 16 Fortune 500 companies, such as Sundar Pichai of Google and Reshma Kewalramani of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, collectively employing 2.7 million Americans and generating nearly one trillion in revenue. Beyond corporate leadership, Indian Americans have a strong presence in the startup sector, co-founding numerous successful ventures that employ thousands and are valued at billions.
Their influence extends into small businesses, with Indian Americans owning 60 per cent of all US hotels, underscoring their profound impact on the hospitality industry. Economically, despite comprising a small fraction of the population, they contribute significantly to the US tax base and indirectly support millions of American jobs through their professions.
In fields like research, innovation, and academia, the Indian diaspora has made significant contributions. They hold a notable share of US patents, contribute substantially to scientific publications, and play pivotal roles in advancing fields like healthcare and technology.
The report also highlights the substantial presence of Indian-origin faculty members in US higher education, demonstrating their influence in shaping future generations through academia.
Overall, the Indian-American community’s story in the US is one of determination, resilience, and substantial contributions across various facets of American society, positioning them as a dynamic and integral part of the nation’s fabric.