On October 9, 2025, the Connecticut chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) hosted a virtual meeting with Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) to discuss the controversial $100,000 H-1B visa fee hike introduced by the Trump Administration. The meeting brought together GOPIO-CT officials, GOPIO International representatives, and business owners affected by the policy change.
GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, who also serves as Trustee and Advisor to the chapter, highlighted that the H-1B program contributes over $200 billion annually to the U.S. economy at a relatively low cost of $8.5 billion. He warned that making it more difficult for highly skilled professionals to work in the U.S. could lead them to seek employment in countries like Canada, Germany, and China, resulting in long-term losses for the U.S.
GOPIO-CT President Mahesh Jhangiani emphasized the disproportionate burden the fee hike places on small and medium-sized businesses, which cannot absorb the $100,000 cost as larger corporations can. He also voiced concerns regarding what he described as anti-India policies of the administration.
Members of GOPIO-CT, including Prasad Chintalapudi of Panzer Solutions and Shailesh Naik of Cameron Engineers, pointed out that small businesses employing H-1B workers contribute to local employment and economic growth. Many successful CEOs, including Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, and Aravind Krishna, have benefited from the H-1B program.
Attorney Nandita Ruchandani, speaking on behalf of Cameron Engineers, noted that H-1B holders work in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, engineering, and technology. She stressed that these immigrants contribute taxes, buy homes, and support local communities, yet may face job loss due to the prohibitive fee.
Dr. S.K. Lo, Chairperson of the Asian American Unity Coalition (AAUC), also participated, affirming the importance of a united approach to addressing these challenges.
Congressman Jim Himes, serving his ninth term and a senior member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and the Financial Services Committee, expressed full support for GOPIO-CT’s stance. He agreed that the U.S. could lose valuable talent and emphasized the ongoing importance of U.S.-India cooperation in commerce, trade, and defense.
For over 20 years, GOPIO-CT has been an active organization engaging in community programs, youth mentoring, policy discussions, and cultural initiatives. The chapter works to promote awareness of Indian heritage while fostering dialogue and partnerships with local communities.
