Washington: Indian students studying in the US were praised during a Senate hearing in March on foreign influence in American universities, even as lawmakers raised concerns about China’s research ties and funding. The Senate Health, Education, Labour, and Pensions Committee convened to discuss “Transparency and Trust: Exposing Malign Foreign Influence in Higher Education,” examining how foreign funding and academic partnerships might affect national security.

Peter Wood, President of the National Association of Scholars, highlighted that Indian students, the largest group of international students in the United States, have not raised security concerns. “Nobody to my knowledge has raised questions that Indian students coming to the United States pose a security risk,” he added.

Committee Chairman Senator Bill Cassidy emphasised the strategic value of US universities. “Our country has the best universities in the world and major breakthroughs in cancer research, artificial intelligence, military technology, biomedical engineering, and more happen at our universities,” he said, noting that last year $9.7 billion in foreign gifts and contracts were reported.

Craig Singleton, senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, warned that foreign governments see US universities as strategic targets, especially China. Federal data cited that China has contributed about $6.8 billion over time, including nearly $400 million linked to entities on US watch or restricted lists.

Several Senators stressed the need to protect sensitive research while remaining open to global talent. Senator Tim Kaine noted the economic contribution of international students and urged careful policy balance. Robert Daley, Asia Society, added that universities have strengthened oversight to anticipate and counter foreign influence. Lawmakers are considering measures to tighten disclosure under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act.