India, April 29 -- If you have read my columns over the years, you know I have been one of the loudest advocates for Indian innovation and engineering talent. That belief has not wavered; I still see enormous potential. But I have now reached a point I never expected to reach: I have given up on India for one of the most critical roles I need to fill at Vionix Biosciences - a medical researcher who can think differently and devise new ways of detecting disease.

Let me explain why.

On paper, the candidates look outstanding. Their resumes are immaculate, with prestigious institutions, relevant internships, publications, and glowing letters of recommendation. Even the emails, which not long ago were full of "plz", "u", and "thx", have sudd...