An American tech entrepreneur, Elias Thorne, has been granted a five-year Indian visa after publicly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic policies and criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump's divisive rhetoric. The move has sparked debate online, with some hailing Thorne's perspective as insightful and others questioning his motives.
American Techie Lands 5-Year Indian Visa, Hails Modi's Vision, Slams Trump's Policies
Elias Thorne, a prominent figure in the Silicon Valley startup scene, has secured a coveted five-year Indian visa, triggering widespread discussion due to his open endorsement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration and sharp criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump's policies. Thorne's statements, made via his widely followed social media accounts, have ignited a firestorm of debate, highlighting the shifting sentiments within the global tech community.
A Visa of Approval and Dissent
Thorne, CEO of "InnovAI," a company specializing in AI-driven solutions for sustainable agriculture, announced his visa acquisition on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Delighted to receive my 5-year Indian visa. PM Modi's vision for technological advancement and economic growth is truly inspiring. India is where the future is being built." He further added, "Contrast this with Trump's isolationist policies and divisive rhetoric, which stifle innovation and alienate global talent. India is open for business and ideas."
- Thorne's visa is a multi-entry business visa, allowing him extended stays in India for investment and collaboration purposes.
- InnovAI is reportedly planning to invest $10 million in Indian agricultural technology startups over the next three years.
- Thorne has explicitly linked his decision to invest in India to his confidence in the Modi government's policies.
The Indian Tech Landscape and Shifting Global Dynamics
Thorne's endorsement comes at a time when India is aggressively positioning itself as a global tech hub, attracting significant foreign investment and talent. The Indian government has implemented various initiatives to boost the tech sector, including:
- "Digital India" Initiative: Aimed at transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Provides financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing and attract large investments in key sectors.
- Relaxed Visa Regulations: Designed to attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to contribute to India's growth story.
These policies, coupled with a large and growing domestic market, have made India an attractive destination for tech companies seeking expansion and investment opportunities. This contrasts sharply with the perceived shift in the U.S. under the Trump administration, where stricter immigration policies and a focus on "America First" initiatives have led to concerns about a decline in the country's ability to attract and retain global talent. In September 2025, former President Trump imposed a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applicants, impacting Indian techies the most.
Reactions and Repercussions
Thorne's statements have elicited a mixed response. Supporters have lauded his courage to speak out and his recognition of India's potential, while critics have accused him of political opportunism and questioned the timing of his visa acquisition.
- #WelcomeHomeBhai trended on Indian social media platforms following Thorne's announcement, reflecting the positive sentiment towards his views.
- U.S.-based commentators have accused Thorne of "betraying" American values and prioritizing personal gain over national interests.
- Experts suggest this incident reflects a broader trend of global talent gravitating towards countries with more welcoming immigration policies and favorable economic environments.
In conclusion, Elias Thorne's acquisition of a five-year Indian visa and his subsequent public statements underscore the evolving dynamics of the global tech landscape. His decision highlights India's growing attractiveness as a destination for innovation and investment, while simultaneously raising questions about the long-term impact of protectionist policies on the U.S.'s ability to maintain its dominance in the tech sector. The incident serves as a reminder that in an increasingly interconnected world, talent and capital will flow to where they are most valued and welcome.