As the United States braces for the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President on January 20, a cloud of uncertainty looms over international students, especially those from India. Fearing the return of disruptive travel restrictions similar to those implemented in 2017, several prestigious US universities have issued travel advisories, urging international students to return before the inauguration.US universities issue urgent travel warningsTop American institutions, including the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, have advised their international students to consider returning to the US ahead of the new administration. In a statement, the university highlighted the potential for sudden changes in immigration policy, stating that the advisory was issued out of an abundance of caution. This precautionary move comes amid fears of possible travel bans or restrictions once Trump takes office.Wesleyan University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have also issued similar warnings, with MIT advising students to carefully assess their travel plans. David Elwell, Associate Dean at MIT, cautioned that the transition period could lead to delays in visa processing and uncertainties regarding new policies.Indian students concerned over potential travel bansThe concern is particularly acute among Indian students, who remember the chaos caused by Trumps 2017 executive order, which targeted nationals from seven predominantly Muslim countries. This ban affected thousands of students and professionals, sparking protests and global debates about US immigration practices.In response to growing concerns, universities like Yale have taken proactive measures, hosting webinars to address the fears of international students. These efforts aim to provide clarity and support, as institutions prepare to challenge any new policies that could disrupt the academic and professional futures of their students.Indias response to the situationWhile Indias Ministry of External Affairs has yet to issue a formal advisory, it has acknowledged the situation, urging Indian nationals in the US to stay informed about any changes in travel regulations. The growing number of Indian students in the US – over 330,000 in 2023-2024 – underscores the significance of this issue. India has now surpassed China as the largest source of international students in the US.
