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Couple shares insights on moving back to India after years in US

Their post meant for Indian professionals aged 20-40, detailed ten key differences between life in India and the US.

Nayrhit and Rishita / Image- X (@NayrhitB)

After concluding their education and professional pursuits in the United States, an Indian couple, both of whom are alumni of the esteemed Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), recently commemorated the one-year anniversary of their return to India. 

Sharing the news on X (formerly Twitter) the couple, Nayrhit and Rishita offered insights for others considering a similar move.The post meant for Indian professionals aged 20-40, deatiled ten key differences between life in India and the US.

One of the couple's first observations was the ease and affordability of domestic help in India. They acknowledged that while the low cost of labor can be concerning, the convenience it offers—a luxury of 15-20 extra hours each week—is unmatched compared to the US.

Traffic, however, remains a persistent challenge. Although not worse than in major US cities like New York or San Francisco, Indian traffic is unpredictable and frustrating, with no immediate solution in sight.

On the digital front, India surpasses the US in convenience. Platforms that promise rapid deliveries within minutes highlight India’s superior intra-city logistics. "Sure, the US has Instacart & DoorDash, but the intra-city logistics here are far superior & efficient,” wrote Nayrhit.

Culturally, the couple found it difficult to form deep connections in the US. Despite many social interactions, the bond beyond professional or casual conversations often felt lacking.



India's digital payments infrastructure also earned high praise. While Apple Pay and UPI offer similar user experiences, UPI's integration into government infrastructure, with no transaction fees, is a notable advantage over the US counterpart.

However, the couple misses the orderliness of queues in the US. In India, chaotic lines at counters and public places remain a frustrating experience.

Food is another area where both countries shine. The couple expressed their joy at returning to Indian cuisine while occasionally missing the diverse offerings of cheese and desserts available in the US.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the US holds the upper hand. With abundant hiking, biking, and beach options, India pales in comparison for those who thrive on outdoor activities.

LGBTQ acceptance in India still has a long way to go, according to the couple. While urban pockets show progress, mainstream India remains less accepting. However, they are hopeful for change in the coming years.

Lastly, the job market remains a challenge in both countries. While jobs are available in India, securing a high-paying position that matches the lifestyle standards of the US is not as easy.

In an earlier tweet, the couple had announced their move back to India. Nayrhit expressed his excitement about building a cross-border platform to bridge the Eastern and Western worlds through talent and technology. 

Meanwhile, Rishita, who completed her Ph.D. at Texas A&M University and post-doctoral research at New York University, is starting her own lab as a tenure-track assistant professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore in the Department of Aerospace Engineering.

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