The counterargument is that just because someone enrolled in a subsidized school doesn't mean they owe the state their entire career. The majority of people prioritize improving their own lives and the future of their families. Through taxes, businesses, innovation, and economic expansion, society also gains from that.
For example, if a talented engineer can earn 50 lakh - 1Cr in the private sector while a government research role pays a fraction of that, it's not surprising they choose the higher-paying path. The same logic applies to doctors who leave government service after their bond ends.
I respect ISRO and DRDO, but patriotism doesn't pay school fees, home loans, or secure my family's future. People shouldn't be guilt-tripped into sacrificing their careers because the government underpays highly skilled professionals.
Many people look at politicians, bureaucrats, and influential families whose children study abroad, settle abroad, hold foreign assets, or build careers outside India, and then hear lectures about sacrifice, duty, and staying back.
Funny how "serve the nation" becomes a moral obligation only for the common man. When politicians send their own kids abroad to study, work, and settle, nobody questions their patriotism.