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Indian AI Startups Face Challenges Amid H-1B Visa Fee Increases

Observenow Desk September 24, 2025

Indian artificial intelligence startups are preparing for potential disruptions in hiring strategies following the U.S. government’s announcement of a $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas. The fee hike is expected to significantly increase the cost of employing skilled talent from India, raising concerns over access to specialized professionals essential for AI research and development.

Startups in the AI sector rely heavily on global talent to drive innovation in areas such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. With the new fee structure, the cost of onboarding H-1B visa holders could become prohibitive for smaller firms, potentially slowing down product development cycles and delaying project timelines.

Industry experts suggest that startups may need to reassess their talent acquisition strategies, including exploring remote work options, hiring locally, or collaborating with universities and research institutions to build domestic talent pipelines. Some companies may also look for alternative markets where skilled professionals are available at lower costs or where visa regulations are more favorable.

The fee increase could also impact the competitiveness of Indian AI startups on a global scale. Access to international expertise has been a key driver for innovation and scaling operations, and the added financial burden may affect the ability of startups to compete with well-funded multinational corporations.

Despite these challenges, many Indian AI entrepreneurs remain optimistic, emphasizing the importance of building robust local talent ecosystems and investing in training programs to reduce dependence on foreign expertise. Initiatives such as industry-academia partnerships, coding bootcamps, and AI research incubators are likely to gain greater attention in response to the H-1B fee hike.

As the AI sector continues to expand, Indian startups will need to navigate these regulatory changes carefully, balancing international hiring with domestic capacity building. The next few years will be critical in determining how these companies adapt to rising costs while sustaining innovation and global competitiveness.

Tags: AI StartupsH-1B Visa

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Education

Indo-Austria Educational Partnership Opens Global Opportunities for Indian Engineering Students

Observenow Desk September 23, 2025

A new educational collaboration between India and Austria is set to provide Indian engineering graduates with expanded opportunities to pursue higher studies abroad. Austria’s leading technical universities—TU Wien, TU Graz, and TU Leoben—have joined hands with VFS Education Services to offer master’s programs to Indian students from recognized colleges.

The partnership is designed to make admission processes more accessible and streamlined for aspiring engineers. Through VFS Education Services, candidates can receive guidance on program selection, application procedures, documentation, and visa support, ensuring a smooth transition to Austrian universities. The initiative is expected to strengthen academic ties between India and Austria while promoting international mobility for skilled students.

Officials highlighted that the collaboration focuses on high-demand engineering disciplines and cutting-edge research areas. By enabling Indian students to study at globally recognized institutions, the partnership aims to enhance their technical expertise, critical thinking, and exposure to advanced scientific methodologies. Graduates are anticipated to return with skills that contribute to India’s growing technological and industrial sectors.

Beyond academics, the initiative encourages cultural exchange and cross-border collaboration. Students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Austria’s research-driven academic environment, interact with international peers, and develop a global perspective, all of which are increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected world.

The partnership also underscores the role of educational service providers like VFS in bridging gaps between students and international institutions. By simplifying logistical and administrative challenges, such collaborations can significantly improve access to global education opportunities for Indian talent.

Overall, this Indo-Austria initiative is poised to empower the next generation of Indian engineers, equipping them with international exposure, advanced knowledge, and skills needed to compete on a global scale. It reflects a growing commitment to fostering educational excellence and promoting global collaboration in the engineering domain.

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Education

IIT-Madras Director Calls Trump’s H-1B Fee Hike a ‘Blessing in Disguise’ for India

Observenow Desk

IIT-Madras Director Kamakoti Veezhinathan has described the recent $100,000 increase in H-1B visa fees in the United States as a “blessing in disguise” for India. According to him, the substantial hike could encourage more Indian professionals and students to focus on domestic opportunities, strengthening research and career prospects within the country.

Veezhinathan emphasized that the steep fee increase may reduce the longstanding appeal of migrating abroad for high-paying tech roles. By making overseas options more costly, he argued, talented individuals are likely to consider contributing to India’s growing knowledge economy, thereby helping build a stronger domestic research ecosystem.

The IIT-Madras Director pointed out that India’s technological and research infrastructure has been rapidly evolving, with increased investment in higher education, artificial intelligence, and scientific innovation. With the availability of competitive opportunities at home, professionals who might have previously sought employment overseas may now explore careers in Indian universities, startups, and technology firms.

He also noted the broader societal benefits of retaining talent within the country. By keeping skilled professionals in India, the nation can accelerate the development of advanced technologies, foster innovation-driven entrepreneurship, and support the creation of high-value jobs.

While the H-1B fee hike has been criticized internationally for potentially restricting the movement of talent, Veezhinathan sees it as an opportunity for India to harness its own human capital. He urged educational institutions, research centers, and industry leaders to collaborate in providing attractive prospects that can engage and retain highly skilled individuals domestically.

In conclusion, the IIT Madras Director suggested that the policy change could act as a catalyst for India to strengthen its research capabilities, encourage innovation, and reduce dependence on overseas employment, ultimately benefiting both the workforce and the nation’s economy.

Tags: IIT MadrasKamakoti Veezhinathan

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BFSI

Yes Bank Targets Wealth Management Expansion Following Partnership with Japan’s SMBC

Observenow Desk

Yes Bank is gearing up to enter India’s burgeoning wealth management market, valued at over one trillion dollars, through a strategic partnership with Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC). The move marks a significant step in the bank’s efforts to diversify its business portfolio and tap into new growth opportunities beyond traditional retail and corporate banking.

The partnership will focus on developing a joint strategy over the next three years, aimed at scaling operations, enhancing customer offerings, and creating tailored investment solutions for India’s affluent and high-net-worth individuals. By combining Yes Bank’s domestic reach with SMBC’s international expertise, the collaboration is expected to bring world-class wealth management practices to the Indian market.

Executives at Yes Bank highlighted that the venture aligns with the bank’s broader transformation plans, which emphasize innovation, customer-centric services, and long-term sustainability. With rising disposable incomes, increasing financial awareness, and growing demand for sophisticated investment options, wealth management has emerged as a strategic priority for leading financial institutions in India.

The initiative also reflects the growing interest of global financial players in India’s financial services sector. SMBC, known for its disciplined approach to risk and wealth advisory, is expected to contribute its expertise in structuring products, managing investments, and implementing robust operational frameworks.

Industry analysts suggest that Yes Bank’s entry into wealth management could intensify competition in the sector, where established players are already focusing on attracting affluent clients. However, the strategic alliance with an experienced international partner provides Yes Bank with a differentiated advantage, potentially allowing it to capture a significant share of this expanding market.

By venturing into wealth management, Yes Bank demonstrates its ambition to evolve into a diversified financial services provider, leveraging strategic partnerships to drive growth and deliver enhanced value to its clients.

Tags: Sumitomo Mitsui Banking CorporationYes Bank

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BFSI

IndusInd Bank Appoints Viral Damania as Chief Financial Officer During Leadership Transition

Observenow Desk

IndusInd Bank has announced the appointment of Viral Damania as its new Chief Financial Officer, marking an important step in the bank’s ongoing leadership restructuring. Damania brings with him over 27 years of experience in banking and professional services, with expertise in finance, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Prior to joining IndusInd Bank, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Bank of America India, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening financial controls and streamlining operational processes.

The appointment comes at a time when IndusInd Bank is reshaping its leadership team to align with long-term strategic goals. Damania’s wide-ranging experience is expected to support the bank in strengthening its balance sheet, enhancing capital efficiency, and improving investor confidence. His professional background spans roles in corporate finance, treasury, and strategic planning, making him well-placed to guide the bank through the evolving regulatory and economic environment.

Industry observers note that the move underscores IndusInd Bank’s focus on stability and resilience in a highly competitive financial sector. With increasing regulatory scrutiny and the growing importance of digital transformation in banking, the role of the CFO has expanded beyond traditional financial oversight. Leaders are now expected to integrate technology, manage risks, and ensure sustainable profitability, areas in which Damania has demonstrated strong capability.

As the bank continues to expand its retail and corporate banking services, his appointment is seen as a step toward strengthening governance and maintaining financial discipline. The leadership changes signal IndusInd Bank’s intent to remain agile and forward-looking in the face of industry challenges.

With Viral Damania taking charge as CFO, IndusInd Bank enters a new phase of financial leadership, aiming to combine strong fundamentals with innovation to deliver long-term growth.

Tags: IndusInd BankViral Damania

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Technology

Union Minister Jitendra Singh Says AI and Blockchain Will Shape the Future of Governance in India

Observenow Desk

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has emphasized that artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies are set to redefine the landscape of governance in India. Speaking on the role of emerging technologies, he noted that these tools are no longer limited to private industry but are actively transforming how citizens interact with government services.

Highlighting recent progress, Singh pointed to the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), which has recorded an impressive 95 percent grievance resolution rate. According to him, this achievement reflects the power of data-driven platforms and the efficiency gained through automation and digital monitoring. The integration of AI has helped categorize complaints, speed up responses, and track outcomes with greater accuracy, leading to improved satisfaction among citizens.

He also underscored the growing role of blockchain in ensuring transparency and accountability. From secure data sharing to tamper-proof record keeping, blockchain is being viewed as a powerful tool to strengthen trust in governance. Singh suggested that as these systems mature, they could be applied in areas such as public procurement, welfare distribution, and land management, where the risk of manipulation has traditionally been high.

Another key focus of the minister’s remarks was the success of the government’s e-office initiative. The move toward digitization has drastically reduced paperwork, streamlined approvals, and cut down delays in decision-making. By embedding technology in everyday operations, ministries are becoming more agile, accessible, and citizen-centric.

Singh concluded by stressing that India’s approach to governance is entering a new era, driven by digital tools that will make administration more transparent, responsive, and future-ready. He said the adoption of AI and blockchain is not a distant goal but an ongoing process, setting the stage for a more efficient and participatory model of governance.

Tags: Jitendra Singh

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Technology

Cognizant Appoints Infosys Veteran Thirumala Arohi as Chief Learning Officer

Observenow Desk

Cognizant has announced the appointment of Thirumala Arohi as its new Chief Learning Officer, marking a significant step in the company’s focus on reskilling and upskilling its global workforce. Arohi brings with him over three decades of professional experience, including nearly 28 years at Infosys where he played a crucial role in building and managing training programs, assessments, and large-scale learning platforms for employees across the world.

In his new role, Arohi will be responsible for designing and driving Cognizant’s global learning strategy, reporting to the Chief People Officer. His mandate will include developing programs that prepare employees for the fast-changing demands of the technology sector, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation.

The appointment reflects Cognizant’s recognition that continuous learning and adaptability are essential in today’s dynamic environment. With industries being reshaped by AI and digital disruption, the company aims to create a culture where employees can regularly refresh their skills and stay competitive. Arohi’s leadership is expected to bring fresh energy and proven expertise to this mission, as he has been widely regarded for his ability to blend technology with large-scale learning initiatives.

Cognizant’s decision to establish a dedicated Chief Learning Officer position also highlights a growing industry trend. Leading IT and consulting firms are increasingly treating learning and development not as support functions but as key drivers of long-term growth and innovation. By investing in structured upskilling programs and forward-looking talent strategies, companies hope to ensure they can adapt to client demands while keeping their workforce future-ready.

With Arohi at the helm of its learning agenda, Cognizant signals its commitment to strengthening employee capabilities and aligning them with the next phase of technological change.

Tags: CognizantThirumala Arohi

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Governance

India-US Relations Will Steady Despite Setbacks, Says Shashi Tharoor

Observenow Desk

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has voiced confidence that India and the United States will overcome current strains in their relationship and return to a balanced partnership. Speaking about the recent disagreements over tariff hikes and increased visa fees, he noted that while such measures have caused difficulties in the short term, the broader strategic and economic ties between the two nations remain strong.

Tharoor acknowledged that the visa fee increase, especially affecting H-1B categories, has raised concerns in India, as it impacts professionals and companies that depend on talent mobility. Similarly, new tariffs have placed added pressure on Indian exporters. However, he emphasized that these issues, though significant, do not alter the long-term trajectory of India-US cooperation.

He highlighted that the partnership spans critical areas such as defence collaboration, joint initiatives in artificial intelligence, advances in space exploration, and information technology exchanges. According to him, these sectors demonstrate that both nations share deep interests that extend far beyond temporary trade disputes.

Another key element Tharoor pointed out is the strength of the Indian diaspora in the US. From students to CEOs of leading corporations, the community plays a crucial role in reinforcing cultural and economic ties. This people-to-people connection, he argued, acts as a strong buffer during periods of political or economic friction.

Tharoor firmly dismissed suggestions that the bilateral relationship could be derailed permanently. He urged observers to take a long-view perspective, stressing that despite the turbulence, both countries are bound by shared values and goals. In his words, the partnership may be experiencing “short-term setbacks,” but it is destined to find equilibrium again as cooperation remains essential for both sides.

Tags: Shashi Tharoor

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Exclusive

Dhan Appoints Ketan Shah as CEO of Omnichannel Business

Observenow Desk

Stock trading and investment platform Dhan has appointed Ketan Shah as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its omnichannel business, effective September 22, 2025. Shah, who brings over 25 years of experience in the stock broking industry, will lead Dhan’s efforts to expand and strengthen its presence across multiple sales and service channels, aiming to enhance customer experience and market reach.

Prior to joining Dhan, Shah served as the Chief Strategy Officer and Board Member at Angel One (formerly Angel Broking), where he played a pivotal role in the company’s early growth, digital transformation, public listing, and emergence as one of India’s top three brokerage platforms. His extensive background spans business, technology, distribution, revenue, and strategy, making him a valuable addition to Dhan’s leadership team.

Dhan’s founder and CEO, Pravin Jadhav, expressed enthusiasm about Shah’s appointment, stating, “With Ketan leading the new charter at Dhan, we hope to build and scale our business via omnichannels by enabling our partners to succeed by leveraging technology.” This strategic move underscores Dhan’s commitment to expanding its offerings and reaching a broader audience through both online and offline channels.

Founded in 2021, Dhan is a stock trading platform that competes with industry leaders like Zerodha and Groww. The company is part of Raise Financial Services, which also operates other platforms such as Upsurge, a learning platform for finance and markets; ScanX, which offers market insights for public investors; and FilterCoffee, a financial media venture. This appointment comes amid fresh fundraising activity at Raise Financial Services, reflecting the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership team and drive growth in the competitive financial services sector.

Tags: DhanKetan Shah

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Governance

Union Minister Suresh Gopi Urges AIIMS for Alappuzha, Says It’s Crucial for District’s Development

Observenow Desk September 22, 2025

Union Minister Suresh Gopi has called for the establishment of an AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) in Alappuzha, highlighting the district’s lagging health infrastructure and the urgent need for advanced medical facilities. He stressed that the presence of a premier medical institution would significantly improve healthcare access, medical education, and research capabilities in the region.

The minister emphasized that Alappuzha’s current healthcare facilities are insufficient to meet the growing demands of its population, particularly for specialized treatments and tertiary care. He noted that an AIIMS campus would not only provide top-tier medical services but also generate employment opportunities and contribute to the district’s overall socio-economic development.

Suresh Gopi warned that if political resistance continues to delay the project, he would push for relocating the AIIMS to Thrissur, his own constituency, to ensure timely implementation. His statement reflects the urgency and importance he attributes to strengthening India’s medical infrastructure while addressing regional disparities.

The call for AIIMS in Alappuzha comes amid broader national efforts to expand healthcare access and improve medical education across underserved regions. Experts note that establishing such institutions in districts like Alappuzha can reduce patient migration to larger cities, improve healthcare outcomes, and foster research and innovation in the medical sector.

As the discussion progresses, stakeholders hope that political consensus can be reached to ensure that Alappuzha receives the planned AIIMS, aligning with India’s vision of equitable healthcare development. The initiative underscores the role of strategic planning and advocacy in addressing regional healthcare gaps and promoting inclusive growth.

Tags: AIIMSSuresh Gopi

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