The Indian-American community, once a small, relatively unnoticed group in the United States, has now become a formidable force across various sectors. From technology to healthcare, from entrepreneurship to education, the contributions of this diaspora are not only shaping the future of America but are also a testament to the incredible journey that Indian-Americans have undertaken over the past few decades.
According to a joint report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Indiaspora, the Indian diaspora in the US now numbers 5.1 million, representing just 1.5% of the total US population. Yet, this small community pays a significant 5-6% of US taxes, a clear indication of their substantial economic contribution. With a median household income of $136,000, almost double the national average, Indian-Americans stand out as one of the most prosperous immigrant groups in the country.
Corporate Leadership and Economic Influence
This success extends beyond personal income. Indian-Americans are making their mark in the corporate world, with 16 Fortune 500 companies currently led by CEOs of Indian origin. This achievement is even more remarkable considering that just a few decades ago, Indians in America didn’t even dare to dream of reaching such heights. The corporate world was seen as an impenetrable fortress for minorities, particularly those from South Asia. Today, however, the narrative has shifted dramatically: if you are not of Indian origin, your chances of becoming a CEO in the US’s tech or business sectors are significantly lower.
The influence of Indian-Americans is not limited to corporate boardrooms. The report reveals that 76% of Indian-Americans work in professions related to management, business, science, and the arts, a figure that far outpaces the national average. Furthermore, Indian-Americans have founded 11% of the 648 unicorns in the US, compared to the 25% founded by other immigrant groups combined. This highlights their remarkable entrepreneurial spirit and their significant role in driving innovation in the US.
Challenges and Resilience
However, the story of Indian-Americans is not solely one of success. The report highlights that 6% of Indian-Americans live below the poverty line, which, while concerning, is considerably lower than the 11.6% national average for the overall US population. Moreover, 14% of Indian-Americans were undocumented in 2021, making them the third-largest undocumented migrant group in the country. These statistics serve as a reminder that despite their overall success, significant challenges remain for segments of the Indian-American community.
In addition to these challenges, the H-1B visa program, which has brought many skilled Indian workers to the US, also imposes long-term uncertainties. The program restricts the scope of available job opportunities and creates an environment of insecurity for those in the country on work visas. Despite these hurdles, the Indian-American community continues to thrive and make outsized contributions to American society.
Impact on American Life
Indian-Americans have also left a significant mark on American daily life. One in ten physicians in the US is of Indian origin, providing care to 30% of the country’s patients. Additionally, Indian-Americans own 60% of all hotels in the US, generating $700 billion in revenue and creating over 4 million jobs. Their presence is felt in the convenience stores they own, the educational institutions where they teach, and even in the movies they produce—96 Indian films have grossed over $1 million in the US since 2015.
To understand the magnitude of their rise, one only needs to consider the story of Raj, an Indian immigrant who arrived in the US in the mid-1980s. Back then, the idea of an Indian-born CEO was virtually unheard of. Raj, despite his engineering degree and relentless work ethic, was told by his supervisor, “You’ll never be the CEO, Raj. That’s just not a job for someone like you.” Today, Raj’s story would be different. The corporate world is now populated with Indian-American leaders who have not only climbed the ladder but have redefined the notion of leadership in America.
The Journey from Margins to Mainstream
The rise of Indian-Americans is a story of resilience, ambition, and transformation. From being a community that didn’t even dream of leadership roles, they have become a driving force in the US economy and society. The narrative has indeed flipped: if you’re not of Indian origin, the road to the top might just be a little steeper. This journey, from the margins to the mainstream, is a powerful reminder of the boundless horizons that lie ahead for the Indian-American community.
