India vs. USA: Comparing the Realities of Life and the Challenges Faced
When comparing India and the United States, the narrative is often skewed and influenced by personal biases. Many Indians who tout the virtues of their country frequently do so based on fabricated stories of their experiences in the U.S. Rarely do Indians living in the U.S. highlight the positive aspects of India, especially if they grew up in safer regions like Bengaluru or parts of the southern states. However, it is important to recognize the complexities and challenges in both nations.
Imigration and Challenges
Despite the numerous comments from individuals claiming India is better, we see a stark contradiction in the reality of migration. India ranks third in the list of illegal immigrants in the U.S., with many Indians staying in the country for years waiting for a chance to become a legal citizen. Once their H1B visa expires, they are often forcefully returned to India, where competition for jobs and higher education is intense. It is crucial to recognize that out of 1.4 billion people, only a small percentage can secure high-paying jobs, and the rest must struggle.
While the U.S. does face issues with crime, including a higher homicide rate, it is important to note that Pakistan also has a higher homicide rate than both India and the U.S. Yet, does that mean living in Pakistan is advisable? Clearly, both countries have high homicide rates due to their large populations, but the stability that India lacks.
Other prevalent stereotypes include the belief that the U.S. is richer and has higher technology. However, the reality is that India, despite its economic challenges, is making significant strides in technological advancements, especially in areas such as IT and software development. The U.S., while extremely rich, also struggles with issues such as income inequality, which is more pronounced in a country with a smaller population.
Quality of Life and Personal Experiences
My experience living in Canada, Israel, and the U.S. provides a unique perspective. The proverb Inam inathodu than serum (meaning: things not seen are often better perceived) holds a significant truth. Even in the U.S., despite its prosperity, the quality of fresh, organic foods is often inferior to what is available in India. As a brown Indian immigrant, you are often viewed with suspicion and perceived as a second-class citizen, even if you have lived in the U.S. for generations or are fluent in English.
Life in Tamil Nadu, a southern state in India, can be challenging due to infrastructure issues, but it is also the best place to live for many Tamilians. The negative aspects of life in Tamil Nadu are often exaggerated compared to the reality. The country's cultural and social fabric plays a significant role in the quality of life, and assimilation in the U.S. can be more challenging due to racial and cultural barriers.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the comparison between India and the U.S. hinges on individual values and personal experiences. While India faces significant challenges, it has a unique cultural and social structure that offers stability and support. For many, especially those from Tamil Nadu, the pros of staying in India outweigh the cons. The key takeaway is to focus on the positive aspects of our respective countries and the challenges we face, rather than fostering a negative image of one over the other.