pm modi visit yesterday

Indian Prime Minister Modi makes first visit to ally Russia since Ukraine invasion

India’s prime minister began a two-day visit to Russia  on Monday, his first since Moscow launched its  invasion of Ukraine , a war that has complicated the relationship between the longtime allies and pushed Russia closer to India’s rival China .

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit will include a meeting with President  Vladimir Putin , whom he last saw in Russia in 2019, in the far eastern port of Vladivostok . The two leaders also met in person in September 2022 in Uzbekistan , at a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization bloc.

Russia has had strong ties with India since the Cold War, and New Delhi’s importance as a key trading partner for Moscow has grown since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine in Feb. 2022 . China and India have become key buyers of Russian oil following sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies that shut most Western markets off to Russian exports.

Under Modi’s leadership, India has avoided condemning Russia’s war in Ukraine while emphasizing the need for a peaceful settlement.

The partnership between Moscow and New Delhi has become fraught, however, since Russia started developing closer ties with India’s main rival, China, because of the hostilities in Ukraine.

Modi notably stayed away last week from the most recent summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, in Kazakhstan.

Chietigj Bajpaee, senior South Asia research fellow at the U.K.-based Chatham House, said India is becoming increasingly estranged from forums in which Russia and China play a prominent role.

“This is evident in India’s relatively low key presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization last year, and now the decision by Modi not to attend this year’s summit,” Bajpaee said.

A confrontation in June 2020 along the disputed China-India border dramatically altered their already touchy relationship as the rival troops fought with rocks, clubs and fists. At least 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese soldiers were killed. Tensions have since persisted despite talks.

Those tensions have seeped into how New Delhi looks at Moscow.

“Russia’s relations with China have been a matter of some concern for India in the context of Chinese increased assertiveness in the region,” D. Bala Venkatesh Verma, a former Indian ambassador to Russia, told The Associated Press.

But Modi also will seek to continue close relations with Russia, an important trading partner and major defense supplier for India.

Since Western sanctions blocked Russian oil exports after the start of the Ukraine war, India has become a key buyer of Russian oil. It now gets more than 40% of its oil imports from Russia, according to analysts.

India is also strongly dependent on Russia for military supplies, but with Moscow’s supply line hit by the fighting in Ukraine, India has been diversifying its defense procurements, buying more from the U.S., Israel, France and Italy.

“Defense cooperation will clearly be a priority area,” Bajpaee said, adding that 60% of India’s military equipment and systems is “still of Russian origin.”

“We’ve seen some delay in the deliveries of spare parts ... following the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” he said. “I believe both countries are due to conclude a military logistics agreement, which would pave the way for more defense exchanges.”

India has adopted a neutral stance, neither condemning nor condoning Russia’s war on Ukraine, and has called for negotiations to end the fighting. That in turn has bolstered Putin’s efforts to counter what he calls the West’s domination of global affairs.

Facing an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court for actions over the war in Ukraine, Putin’s foreign travel has been relatively sparse in recent years, so Modi’s trip could help the Russian leader boost his image.

Alexander Gabuev, head of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said that Putin’s interactions on the world stage show he “is far from isolated” and that Russia is not a country to be discounted.

Trade development also will figure strongly in the talks, particularly intentions to develop a maritime corridor between India’s major port of Chennai and Vladivostok, the gateway to Russia’s Far East.

India-Russia trade has seen a sharp increase, touching close to $65 billion in the 2023-24 financial year, due to strong energy cooperation, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra told reporters Friday.

Imports from Russia touched $60 billion and exports from India $4 billion in the 2023-24 financial year, Kwatra said. India’s financial year runs from April to March.

He said India was trying to correct the trade imbalance with Russia by increasing its exports. India’s top exports to Russia include drugs and pharmaceutical products, telecom instruments, iron and steel, marine products and machinery.

Its top imports from Russia include crude oil and petroleum products, coal and coke, pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, fertilizer, vegetable oil, gold and silver.

The Associated Press

Putin meets Indian prime minister in Russia on his first visit since Moscow sent troops into Ukraine

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Moscow on a two-day visit, his first since Russia sent troops into Ukraine, which has complicated the relationship between the longtime partners and pushed Russia closer to India’s rival, China

MOSCOW — India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Moscow on Monday for a two-day visit , his first since Russia sent troops into Ukraine, complicating the relationship between the longtime partners and pushing Russia closer to India’s rival, China.

Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin at his residence outside Moscow, to be followed by talks at the Kremlin on Tuesday. Modi last traveled to Russia in 2019, when he attended a forum in the far eastern port of Vladivostok and met with Putin. The leaders also saw each other in September 2022 in Uzbekistan, at a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization bloc.

Modi posted photos of his arrival in Moscow on the social media platform X, in both Russian and English, saying he was “looking forward to further deepening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between our nations.”

“Stronger ties between our nations will greatly benefit our people,” he wrote, also sharing a picture of himself and Putin hugging.

Later, the two leaders were pictured in videos shared by the Kremlin at Putin’s residence, Novo-Ogaryovo, near Moscow.

Putin drove Modi around the grounds in a buggy and showed him his stable with horses. According to state news agencies, the two had earlier watched a horse show with performers in national Russian dress.

Modi thanked Putin on X for hosting him at Novo-Ogaryovo and said he was looking forward to Tuesday’s talks which he hoped will “go a long way in further cementing the bonds of friendship between India and Russia.”

Russia has had strong ties with India since the Cold War , and New Delhi’s importance as a key trading partner has grown since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022. China and India have become key buyers of Russian oil following sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies that shut most Western markets off to Russian exports. India now gets more than 40% of its oil imports from Russia, according to analysts.

Under Modi’s leadership, India has avoided condemning Russia’s military action in Ukraine while emphasizing the need for a peaceful settlement.

The partnership between Moscow and New Delhi has become fraught, however, as Russia has moved closer to China. Modi notably stayed away from last week’s summit in Kazakhstan of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a security grouping founded by Moscow and Beijing.

Chietigj Bajpaee, senior South Asia research fellow at the U.K.-based Chatham House, said India is increasingly estranged from forums in which Russia and China play a prominent role.

“This is evident in India’s relatively low-key presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization last year, and now the decision by Modi not to attend this year’s summit,” Bajpaee said.

A confrontation in June 2020 along the disputed China-India border dramatically altered their already touchy relationship as rival troops fought with rocks, clubs and fists. At least 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese soldiers were killed. Tensions have persisted despite talks — and have seeped into how New Delhi looks at Moscow.

“Russia’s relations with China have been a matter of some concern for India in the context of Chinese increased assertiveness in the region,” D. Bala Venkatesh Verma, a former Indian ambassador to Russia, told The Associated Press.

But Modi is expected to seek to continue close relations with Russia, which is also a major defense supplier for India.

With Moscow’s arms industries mostly serving the Russian military in Ukraine, India has been diversifying its defense procurements, buying more from the U.S., Israel, France and Italy.

“Defense cooperation will clearly be a priority area,” Bajpaee said, adding that 60% of India’s military equipment and systems is “still of Russian origin.”

“We’ve seen some delay in the deliveries of spare parts ... following the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” he said. “I believe both countries are due to conclude a military logistics agreement, which would pave the way for more defense exchanges.”

Following an arrest warrant issued in 2023 by the International Criminal Court for his actions in Ukraine, Putin’s foreign travel has been sparse in recent years, so Modi’s trip could help the Russian leader boost his clout.

“We kind of see Putin going on a nostalgia trip — you know, he was in Vietnam, he was in North Korea,” said Theresa Fallon, an analyst at the Center for Russia, Europe, Asia Studies. “In my view, he’s trying to demonstrate that he’s not a vassal to China, that he has options, that Russia is still a great power.”

Alexander Gabuev, head of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said that Putin’s interactions on the world stage show he “is far from isolated” and that Russia is not a country to be discounted.

Trade development also will figure strongly in the talks, particularly intentions to develop a maritime corridor between India’s major port of Chennai and Vladivostok, the gateway to Russia’s Far East.

India-Russia trade has seen a sharp increase, touching close to $65 billion in the 2023-24 financial year, due to strong energy cooperation, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra told reporters Friday.

Imports from Russia touched $60 billion and exports from India $4 billion in the 2023-24 financial year, Kwatra said. India’s financial year runs from April to March.

He said India was trying to correct the trade imbalance with Russia by increasing its exports. India’s top exports to Russia include drugs and pharmaceutical products, telecom instruments, iron and steel, marine products and machinery.

Its top imports from Russia include crude oil and petroleum products, coal and coke, pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, fertilizer, vegetable oil, gold and silver.

Pathi reported from New Delhi and Heintz from Tallinn, Estonia. Associated Press writer Ashok Sharma in New Delhi contributed to this report.

Modi State Visit Modi Promotes India to Congress After Meeting With Biden

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized his country’s development and played up what he described as commonalities with the U.S. Earlier, he ducked a question about his government’s treatment of minorities.

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Modi Praises ‘Limitless’ Potential of U.S.-India Partnership

In a speech to congress, prime minister narendra modi of india promoted his nation’s development and said the relationship between his country and the united states was important for democracy’s future..

The U.S. is the oldest — and India, the largest — democracy. Our partnership augurs well for the future of democracy. [cheers] Together, we shall give a better future to the world and a better world to the future. Everyone wants to understand India’s development, democracy and diversity. Everyone wants to know what India is doing right and how. We are not only growing bigger, but we are also growing faster. When India grows, the whole world grows. I can go on and go on. But to summarize I would say: The scope of our cooperation is endless, the potential of our synergy is limitless and the chemistry of our relations is effortless.

Peter Baker

Biden welcomes India’s prime minister despite concerns over human rights.

President Biden emphasized common ground with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India on Thursday during a lavish state visit meant to bolster ties with the world’s most populous nation, while largely skirting points of friction over human rights and Russia’s war in Ukraine, at least in public.

After a pomp-filled, red-carpet arrival ceremony, Mr. Biden and Mr. Modi announced a range of initiatives to advance cooperation in technology, energy and military hardware but revealed no movement toward each other on the areas of disagreement that have strained the relationship in recent months, most especially Ukraine.

In a modest but notable breakthrough, however, Mr. Biden coaxed Mr. Modi into taking questions from reporters at a news conference, apparently the first time he has done so in his nearly decade-long tenure .

Here’s what else to know:

Challenged on his record on human rights and religious freedom, Mr. Modi insisted that democracy was “in India’s DNA” and denied that his government had engaged in discrimination based on race, faith or other such distinctions. Mr. Modi’s government has cracked down on dissent and hounded opponents in a way that has raised fears of an authoritarian turn not seen since India’s slip into dictatorship in the 1970s. In hosting Mr. Modi, Mr. Biden is pushing democracy concerns to the background .

The United States is trying to draw India closer , as the urgency for improved relations has intensified with Russia’s war on Ukraine. India has maintained military and economic relations with Russia, buying up Russian oil at a discount and staying away from backing United Nations resolutions that have condemned Russia’s aggression.

Mr. Modi gave an address to a joint session of Congress where he promoted his country’s development and played up what he described as common themes with the United States.

The two leaders announced initiatives advancing cooperation on telecommunications, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and other areas. Mr. Modi agreed to sign the Artemis Accords — principles governing peaceful exploration of the moon, Mars and other celestial bodies — and they will announce a joint mission to the International Space Station in 2024. The United States and India also will open additional consulates in each other’s country.

Tonight, the Bidens will host Mr. Modi for a state dinner on the South Lawn. The vegetarian menu — in accordance with Mr. Modi’s diet — includes an optional fish entree. The first course will be a marinated millet and grilled corn kernel salad with compressed watermelon and avocado sauce, followed by a main course of stuffed portobello mushrooms and creamy saffron-infused risotto.

Suhasini Raj

Indian television heaps praise on Modi during his trip.

“Super King of Diplomacy,” read the ticker placed in bold on top of one news channel. “Long live our friendship,” said another. A third declared, “The Boss in America.”

Mainstream Indian news channels — in Hindi, English and some regional languages — covered Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reception in Washington with adulation, praising his diplomatic skills for millions of viewers before a crucial election year for him.

The visuals from Washington played into what Mr. Modi has already set as one of his main campaign themes: tying India’s rise as a major economic power with his rise as a global statesman.

“The scale, the splendor, the warmth,” one headline enthused. Others, such as “Modi’s breakthrough diplomacy” and “Watch history being made,” flooded Indians’ homes Thursday evening as Mr. Modi walked the red carpet to meet President Biden and the first lady, Jill Biden.

“Their body language reflected that they were incomplete without one another,” one news anchor said as visuals of the two leaders shaking hands played on the screen.

Mr. Modi has carefully crafted his relationship with traditional news outlets, using a mix of incentives and pressure tactics to get most of them on his side.

When uncomfortable issues arise — a state election loss, an ethnic war resulting in weeks of unrest and bloodshed in a northeastern state, a deadly three-way train crash — they are quick to deflect blame away from Mr. Modi.

And when a major moment like the state visit to Washington comes, they are happy to join in the cheerleading — a factor that, combined with how Mr. Modi’s party has mastered social media to take his messages viral, helps explain Mr. Modi’s talent for shaping politics to his benefit.

The coverage of Mr. Modi’s visit to the United States is a political boon, setting the agenda in his favor before he launches himself full-time into campaign mode for parliamentary elections next year.

While many channels showed the White House dinner menu ad nauseam, calling it “dinner for friendship,” some others waxed eloquent about the importance of the gifts Mr. Modi had carried for the Bidens. One anchor declared of a military deal between the two countries: “The biggest defense deal. The hearts of enemies will burn!”

And when, at his news conference with Mr. Biden, Mr. Modi skirted a question on India’s grim human rights record and suppression of free speech, one Hindi-language news anchor came to his rescue on her show, saying he had “very bravely” faced the question.

Lisa Friedman

The U.S. and India agree to speed deployment of electric buses.

The United States and India have long been at odds over the responsibility of different countries in tackling climate change. But as Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up a visit to Washington, he and President Biden cast their nations as partners in the fight.

As Mr. Biden declared climate change an “existential threat to humanity” during a joint news conference on Thursday, Mr. Modi pledged that India was working to become a green energy hub. Both governments also announced plans to help India increase the production of electric vehicles and meet its ambitious goal of installing 500 gigawatts of wind, solar and other renewable energy this decade.

The Biden administration did not announce any direct U.S. funding for India. But senior administration officials said the governments had agreed on a plan they believed would encourage banks to give loans for electric buses, which are seen as a high-risk investment in India.

India aims to deploy 50,000 public electric buses over the next five years. The plan includes establishing three months of delayed payments so that companies can secure loans at lower rates. Biden administration officials said the payment security plan will help underwrite at least 10,000 electric buses.

The United States and India also announced a separate investment plan that officials said will be joined by private companies and others that aims to lower the cost of capital and attract international private finance for large-scale renewable energy projects. The joint announcement billed it a “first of its kind, multibillion dollar” package but no specific dollar figure from the United States or any other country or organization was announced.

Katie Rogers

Guests just started arriving at the White House for the state dinner. Some of the more notable names include Huma Abedin, a former senior adviser to Hillary Clinton; the designer Reem Acra; Apple’s Tim Cook; Hunter and Ashley Biden; and the president’s brother, James.

Alex Travelli and Mujib Mashal

Reporting from New Delhi

One accomplishment of Modi’s visit? Greater defense cooperation between India and the U.S.

One of the biggest takeaways from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit might be that it has injected new momentum into defense cooperation between the United States and India, a slow and turbulent undertaking in the past.

The two sides announced a deal for coproduction in India of engines for fighter aircraft, a $3 billion purchase of about 30 American Reaper drones by India, and a road map to expand cooperation between the two countries’ defense industries. There were also agreements on intelligence sharing and on space-based, quantum and other strategic technologies.

For the Biden administration, helping India expand its defense manufacturing tracks with its efforts to further isolate Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine . India has long relied on Russia for a majority of its military equipment, and any increase in manufacturing capability at home or diversification of its arms sources would lessen its purchases from Russia.

For India, the United States’ latest efforts to improve defense ties is in line with its attempt to grow its domestic manufacturing and reduce its reliance on foreign partners.

India’s military forces have stuck to most of the same weapons systems that they began using during the Cold War. India was neutral but tended to side more closely with the Soviet Union. Indian officials have said their dependence on Russian weapons over the decades was simply out of necessity: The U.S. long held back on sales of military equipment to India, and that has only started to change over the past two decades. As a result, the Indian armed forces still use equipment of Soviet design and specifications. Parts cannot be swapped out, piecemeal, for American-standard weaponry. In some rare cases, as with India’s use of Lockheed’s C-130 Hercules transport plane, a stand-alone American platform can be soldered onto the existing framework. But for the most part, the systems are not interoperable.

Technical challenges aside, one thing that the defense road map seems to be addressing is the reluctance that has kept the world’s biggest two democracies from seeing eye-to-eye. They have a long history of disagreement, over matters including Pakistan, Iraq and United Nations votes. But tensions with China are bringing them to the same table, especially after Indian and Chinese troops started clashing along their Himalayan border in 2020.

Australia and Japan, the other members of the fledgling security bloc aimed at containing China around the “Indo-Pacific region” (as the Americans renamed it, to include the Indian Ocean, in 2018), have long-established military partnerships and even alliances with the United States.

The “ Roadmap for U.S.-India Defense Industrial Cooperation ,” published earlier this month, illustrates the American goal of making India into something more like a formidable ally — and the Indian goal of beefing up its own capabilities. They find common cause in trying to “cooperatively produce the systems required to meet India’s military modernization objectives.”

But India’s ties with Russia are deep and cannot be undone quickly or with good will alone. Ajai Shukla, a retired colonel with the Indian Army who writes extensively about defense, is skeptical that America will find any durable role to play. He recalls how Alexander Kadakin, a Russian ambassador to India, liked to tell the story about visiting the Indian space centers and feeling more at home there than he did in Russia — because so many of the scientists were speaking Russian.

Karoun Demirjian

Modi waves to crowd in the third floor gallery, who stuck around to cheer him as he slowly makes his way toward the exit. Emphasis on slowly. He stopped for more autographs and pictures on the way out.

He texted from the speech to say that he “appreciated PM Modi’s unequivocal statement that India must be home to all faiths and celebrate all of them.” But he added that “American leaders need to also have the difficult conversations with Indian leaders about protecting minority rights, an open press and open internet.”

At the White House, some 400 guests are going to pass by reporters to attend the dinner. One of the guests is Representative Ro Khanna, Democrat of California, who played a part in inviting Modi to give an address to Congress.

Here’s why Modi and many other Indian politicians stay single.

When President Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, take their place on the red carpet at the White House on Thursday to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, there will be an asymmetry of sorts in the picture-perfect setting.

Mr. Modi will go stag.

While a family-centric image is often a political selling point in the United States, in India, many top leaders — the prime minister among them — are proudly unattached, to make a statement that no other commitment can come between them and the nation.

Work-life balance? Not for politicians in the world’s largest democracy, who stay busy attending to the needs of 1.4 billion people and compete with one another in their declarations of sleep deprivation. (Mr. Modi clocks only four hours of slumber a night, his aides say.)

“Every moment of my time, every pore of my body, is only for my countrymen,” the prime minister said in 2019 after winning re-election .

India may seem a strange place for expressions of solitary political devotion. Here, family comes before self and arranged marriages keep families together. Nearly a third of new members of Parliament have had a relative in elected office or a prominent party position, according to one study .

But in a country tired of official corruption, with lawmakers enriching themselves and their families and ensuring political futures for their children, many voters have come to believe that single politicians are less likely to steal.

“The very strong perception,” said Ajoy Bose, a journalist and author, “is that they have no personal interest. That they belong to the people.”

Modi is sticking around in the well of the chamber to shake hands and sign autographs after the speech. In the gaggle of lawmakers around him are Representatives Shri Thanedar, Democrat of Michigan who was born in India; Mike Lawler, Republican of New York; Brad Sherman, Democrat of California; and Joe Wilson, Republican of South Carolina. Modi seems to be enjoying the attention and is not in a rush to leave the chamber -- though his security detail is trying to gently nudge him out.

As Modi makes his way out of the House chamber, he is stopped by members asking him to autograph their printed copies of his remarks.

Alex Travelli

India’s economy is already a star, but Modi wants the attention of American businesses and investors.

NEW DELHI — The state visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India is full of eye-catching moments — practicing yoga outside the United Nations building in New York and addressing a joint session of Congress — that seem designed to burnish both India’s image on the world stage and his own image at home.

Apart from impressing voters back home and his fellow statesmen, Mr. Modi is hoping to get the attention of American businesses and investors.

India’s expanding economy is already in some ways a star. It displaced Britain as the world’s fifth biggest economy last year, and is on track to outpace both Germany and Japan in the decade ahead. The value of the companies listed on its stock markets are worth $3.3 trillion, more than ever before, and Mr. Modi’s government has tackled some challenges that have long stymied Indian growth, including rickety infrastructure and banks burdened with bad loans.

Foreign investors have taken notice, especially with much of the world’s economy looking shaky. A string of high-tech, high-value companies have flocked to India this year, with Apple and possibly Tesla making it known that they see a big future here.

But there are ominous signs, too. While foreign investment has been pouring in and the government has spent heavily on roads, energy and other public goods, private Indian investment has shrunk in proportion to the whole. And the incomes of average Indians have hardly budged in recent years, with most of the country still dependent on farming and many others working in jobs that barely keep them fed.

Indian and American policymakers and businessmen have been trying to devise ways that the United States could help India meet the moment — through a combination of trade, technology transfer, labor mobility and integration with global supply chains.

India’s trade with the United States is worth about $190 billion now, Atul Keshap, a former American ambassador to New Delhi who is president of the U.S.-India Business Council, said in an online discussion this week. It should soon be worth $500 billion, he argued, on par with the size of the U.S. trade relationships with only a few others: Canada, Mexico, the European Union and China.

The relationship could be boosted by the two countries’ altered relationships with China, not only in geopolitics, but also in civilian business and trade. American companies and political leaders are eyeing India — with its 1.4 billion people, same as China — as the sole country fit to shoulder some of the immense weight that China has carried in the world economy. “It’s a lot easier to invest $100 million in a country with 1.4 billion people than in a country with 40 million people,” said Cate Ambrose, chief executive of the Global Private Capital Association, an industry group focused on emerging markets.

With much of the world’s economy hindered by the war in Ukraine, inflation and other headwinds, the Indian economy’s power increasingly stands out. This week, Airbus, a European airplane-maker, signed deal to sell 500 aircraft to IndiGo, a low-cost Indian carrier founded in 2006. It is the kind of contract that American leaders dream of winning for the U.S. airplane giant Boeing.

Indians’ median incomes may be stagnant, even as gains made by wealthier people have brought the per capita income up to $1,200 a year. But the room for growth makes the country attractive as a consumer market. Last year, for example, 123 million passengers flew between India’s airports. The government’s goal is to reach 1 billion by 2040.

A new emphasis in the U.S.-India relationship is high-value manufacturing, and an initiative on emerging technologies has brought together government agencies from both countries to speed up cooperation on microchips, satellites and artificial intelligence. The White House argues that these projects, which sidestep bilateral trade negotiations, should help foster “resilient supply chains” for both countries.

Damien Cave

One of the things that makes Modi an interesting kind of popular leader in our current global moment might be his optimistic tone. He speaks of positive momentum, success and destiny more than flaws and enemies.

Mujib Mashal

As we wrote in our recent story about his role as a radio host, Modi has many avatars for keeping himself intimately omnipresent across India’s vastness — including that of a poet. He has written poetry in Gujarati, though he was reading a Hindi poem just now.

Congressional addresses often end with poetic language, but not usually poetry. After quoting the poem Amanda Gorman read at President Biden’s inauguration, Modi recited lines in Hindi that he penned himself.

On China, Modi has always been careful to avoid escalating tensions. When tensions at the India-China border escalated to bloody skirmishes, American diplomats were saying Modi’s government was not comfortable with U.S. officials mentioning China by name in statements made out of New Delhi.

A policy proposal from Modi, as he calls for the African Union to get full membership in the G20. (The speech so far has been big on promoting accomplishments but light on articulating demands for change.)

As Peter notes, the omissions of the words “Russia” and “China” show how carefully Modi is choosing his words as he supports the spirit of the U.S. position, while clearly signaling that India is not going to take a side in these geopolitical rivalries.

The technology transfer piece of the defense deal reflects not just improved U.S.-India ties, but also a major shift in how the United States works with allies in the Indo-Pacific. Australia is getting nuclear-powered subs from America. Japan is buying American Tomahawk missiles. It’s all part of a broader effort to balance China’s military growth.

U.S.-India defense relations have had to overcome a history of deep mistrust rooted in both bureaucracies. But it feels like the countries are turning a new page. The American defense secretary and national security adviser were both in New Delhi in the weeks before Modi’s visit to Washington.

India’s ties to Russia stretch decades, and India still relies on Russia for a majority of its military equipment. So India has been careful in calling for peace and dialogue while staying away from condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

In discussing Ukraine, Modi calls for respecting U.N. principles of sovereignty, earning a standing ovation. He also said “we all must do what we can to stop the bloodshed and human suffering.” However, India continues to buy a lot of oil from Russia, engaging in a practice that the United States argues fuels the Russian war machine.

Likewise, when he discusses “the dark clouds of coercion and confrontation” that are “casting their shadow in the Indo-Pacific,” he leaves unstated who might be doing the coercing and confronting, never mentioning the word “China.”

When Modi mentions Ukraine, he shifts to passive construction. “With the Ukraine conflict, war has returned to Europe,” he said, without mentioning the word “Russia.”

Zolan Kanno-Youngs

Reporting from Washington

State Dinners: Who Gets Them, Who Doesn’t and Why They Matter

As President Biden welcomed India’s prime minister to the White House , the two leaders were looking for more than a fine vegetarian meal and a night of glitzy entertainment.

Under the guise of pomp and pageantry, state visits are a chance for presidents to push foreign dignitaries to align with American interests. They can be a way to celebrate old, ironclad alliances . And with high-profile guest lists , multicourse meals and top-flight entertainment, they are much-coveted invites in Washington .

“These are not just dinners,” said Matthew Costello, a senior historian for the White House Historical Association. “There’s a lot more that goes into them in terms of planning, in terms of invitations, and a lot is geopolitics, a lot is foreign policy.”

When President Dwight D. Eisenhower invited Nikita Khrushchev, the leader of the Soviet Union, to the White House in 1959, he was focused on thawing Cold War tensions after the launch of Sputnik. Before President Barack Obama hosted President Xi Jinping of China, the two countries negotiated for weeks over an arms control accord for cyberspace. President Ulysses S. Grant held the first state dinner for King David Kalakaua of Hawaii to strengthen trade.

The dinners can also provide a window into the regions the United States is prioritizing — and the ones being neglected.

European and Latin American nations have received the most state dinner invitations, while sub-Saharan African and Southeast Asian nations have received the fewest, according to a study by the Center for Global Development that tracked 40 years of state visits from the Carter to Obama administrations.

Out of 160 dinners, just 15 were with guests from sub-Saharan Africa, the study found.

“To be a foreign leader and not get the state dinner, you feel snubbed,” said Douglas Brinkley, a presidential historian. “It’s often the smaller countries in the world who don’t get them, but when you’re dealing with big power players like India, it’s a must.”

The invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India was not without controversy. Mr. Biden has made the global struggle between democracy and autocracy a key part of his foreign policy, but Mr. Modi’s government has cracked down on dissent in ways that have raised fears of authoritarianism.

Still, the White House views the world’s most populous nation as a potentially welcome addition to its coalition against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as a crucial player in its growing economic competition with China.

The other nations whose leaders received the official invitation to dine with Mr. Biden — France and South Korea — have also been partners in Mr. Biden’s effort to confront Russia.

The state dinner can sometimes be a means of smoothing over hiccups among allies.

Mr. Biden hosted President Emmanuel Macron of France for the first state visit of his administration, more than a year after the two nations feuded over a deal to provide Australians with nuclear-powered submarines. Mr. Biden invited Anthony Albanese, the prime minister of Australia, for a state visit after he canceled a trip there in May because of negotiations over the debt ceiling with congressional Republicans.

“There are multiple times we see presidents using these visits to not just describe immediate concerns, but also to talk through short-term and long-term solutions,” Mr. Costello said.

Domestic politics often hang over the dinner, as well.

Julianna Smoot, Mr. Obama’s social secretary from 2010 to 2011, said she made sure to invite the often-feuding majority and minority leaders of the Senate, Harry Reid and Mitch McConnell, to state dinners for a rare détente. Governors and mayors who had previously expressed support or campaigned for the president were likely to make the list. And the primary donors of presidential campaigns could expect an invitation, particularly if they had business connections to the visiting nation.

“They didn’t become donors in politics because they were slouches,” Ms. Smoot said. “A lot of them do international work and have an interest” in attending the dinner.

The prospect of strengthening political partnerships overseas and within U.S. borders was usually enough to get a quick response from invitees.

“You’re supposed to say yes,” Ms. Smoot said of responding to the invitations, “unless there’s a death in the family.”

Cheers and laughs for Modi’s hat tip to how well Indian American kids have done in successive national spelling bees.

Mentioning that the United States “has become one of our most important defense partners” gets a standing ovation. Not mentioned: India still buys weapons from Russia.

Another thought on Modi’s sales pitch. William Dalrymple, the esteemed historian of India’s past empires, told me recently that India’s sense of overconfidence might be its biggest problem at the moment, hindering the country’s ability to fully confront and solve the enormous challenges it faces, like youth unemployment and social, economic and religious divides.

Very true, Karoun. Not much love for digital payments here in a chamber that has struggled with how to regulate technology of any kind!

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PM Modi dedicates part of Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor to the nation

India will become third largest economy in my third term, it's Modi's guarantee: PM Modi

"Whether a delegate in the G20 Summit or a guest coming to Varanasi, when they praise people of Varanasi, I also feel proud," says PM Modi

Modi's 'guarantee vehicle' has become superhit: PM Narendra Modi in Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday said Modi's 'guarantee vehicle' has become a superhit. Addressing an event here, Modi said the vehicle has evoked tremendous response from the people and it has been assured that the country will become developed by 2047.

"When Varanasi develops, UP develops; and when UP develops, the country develops. With the same sentiment, inauguration and foundation laying of projects worth nearly Rs 20,000 crore has been done today," says PM Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches development projects worth over Rs 19,000 crore in Varanasi

PM Modi flags off Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express train, Dohrighat-Mau MEMU train and a pair of Long Haul goods trains

The second Vande Bharat train between Varanasi and New Delhi will be flagged off by PM Modi

PM Narendra Modi is all set to flag off a second Vande Bharat Express between the cities of Varanasi and New Delhi today. The first Vande Bharat Express between Varanasi and Delhi started service in February 2019. Vande Bharat Express is an all air-conditioned chair car service. The train will have 16 coaches - 14 Chair Cars and 2 Executive Chair Cars.

PM Modi interacts with self-help group women workers at Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in Barki village, Varanasi

India declared freedom from slave mentality: Modi after inaugurating Swarved Mahamandir

Inaugurating the world's largest meditation centre Swarved Mahamandir here on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the country has declared freedom from the slave mentality and is feeling proud of its heritage. "In the era of slavery, the oppressors who made an effort to weaken India first targeted our symbols. After Independence, re-building of these cultural symbols was essential," he said. Modi said that after India gained Independence, "there was an opposition to the rebuilding of the Somnath temple and this thought process remained dominant for decades."

Country has announced freedom from slave mentality, is feeling proud of its heritage: PM Modi in Varanasi.

PM Modi formally opens Swarveda Mahamandir in Varanasi

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath in Varanasi says, "...Today, every Indian is feeling proud as Ram Temple is getting constructed in Ayodhya."

PM Modi inaugurates Swarved Mahamandir in Varanasi

PM Modi today inaugurated the newly built Swarved Mahamandir in Umaraha, Varanasi. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath is also present.

PM Modi to inaugurate 402 km section of Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor today

In line with the government's commitment to strengthen the logistics sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the 402 km-long stretch of the new Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction to New Bhaupur Junction of the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) on Monday. The inauguration of the New Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction to New Bhaupur Junction segment is a crucial part of the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor. Built at a cost of Rs 10,903 crores, this section is situated on the Delhi-Howrah rail route, passing through districts such as Chandauli, Mirzapur, Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Fatehpur, Kanpur Nagar and Kanpur Dehat in Uttar Pradesh. It encompasses a total of 12 stations, including six junction stations and six crossing stations.

PM Modi stops convoy, gives way to Ambulance in Varanasi

In Varanasi, PM Modi credits Adi Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya and other ancient philosophers with creating idea of India as nation

PM Modi says, "In other countries of the world, the nation has been a political definition, but India as a nation is made up of spiritual beliefs. India has been united by saints like Adi Shankaracharya and Ramanujacharya, who awakened the national consciousness of India through their travels"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "...This feeling of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' was also visible when we entered the new building of Parliament. The Sengol has been installed in the new Parliament building. Under the guidance of the saints of Adheenam, this same Sengol became the symbol of the transfer of power in 1947..."

"I am happy that the Banaras Hindu University and IIT Madras have collaborated to make the Kashi Tamil Sangamam a success. The IIT Madras has started the 'Vidya Shakti' initiative to help students from Kashi in maths and science. These things show that the relationship between Kashi and Tamil Nadu is special," says PM Narendra Modi, addressing Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam strengthens sentiment of 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat': PM Modi in Varanasi

Prime Minister Modi says, "Coming from Tamil Nadu to Kashi means coming from Mahadev's one home to another. That's why the bond between people of Tamil Nadu and Kashi is special"

Today in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi, simultaneous Artificial Intelligence based Tamil translation was done through Bhashini for those in the audience who understood Tamil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Today, use of new technology has taken place here through Artificial Intelligence (AI). This is a new beginning and hopefully, it makes it easier for me to reach you."

At Kashi Tamil Sangamam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "...You all have come here as members of my family more than being just guests. I welcome you all to the Kashi Tamil Sangamam..."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off the Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express between Kanyakumari and Varanasi.

At the inauguration of the second phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam at Namo Ghat, UP CM Yogi Adityanath says, "During the last one year, Tamil pilgrims coming to Kashi Vishwanath Dham have increased drastically. In Tamil Nadu and Kashi, all the elements of the Indian culture are well preserved. Due to the religious importance of Kashi, people from all over the country have been coming here. It is the centre of faith, culture and spiritual awareness in India. Like Kashi, Tamil Nadu has also been a centre of culture, knowledge, art, architecture and literature since ancient times. Tamil literature is prosperous and ancient. In India, Sanskrit and Tamil literature are the most ancient. This inclusive literature generates unity and equality in society... Kashi Tamil Sangamam will strengthen the cultural nationalism of our country."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and other leaders attend the inauguration of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2.0 at Namo Ghat, in Varanasi.

PM Modi attends the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a roadshow in Varanasi, earlier today.

— ANI (@ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, in Varanasi, he says "In our country, many government schemes have been made, based on the experience of all of them, I felt that the most important thing for the country to pay attention to is that the schemes of the government should reach people at the right time without any problems. If there is a Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, then the houses should be built with the help of the government. There is no need to run after the government. The Govt should work from the front and since you have given me this work, about four crore families have got permanent houses."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, in Varanasi, he says "All the people of the country associated with the government, politics and social work are giving their time to make this Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra a success. So as the MP of Varanasi, I also had a responsibility that I should also give time to this program"

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan says, "I express gratitude towards PM Modi that he gave me the charge of Kashi Tamil Sangamam...Kashi & Tamil Nadu have a deep connection..."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath participate in Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra Exhibition at Cutting Memorial Inter College, in Varanasi

PM Modi, UP CM Yogi Adityanath take a pledge for 'Viksit Bharat' in Varanasi.

Surat Diamond Bourse, world's largest office building: Top 10 facts

The Surat Diamond Bourse, set to become a global diamond trading hub, has been inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. What makes the Surat Diamond Bourse special is that it has bagged the title of being the world’s largest office building!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra Exhibition in Cutting Memorial Inter College, in Varanasi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stopped his convoy to give way to an ambulance during his roadshow in Varanasi.

On his 2-day visit to Varanasi, PM Modi will launch and inagurate 37 projects worth more than Rs 19,000 crore for Varanasi and Purvanchal. He will also launch Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2.0 from Namo Ghat and flag off the new train from Kanyakumari to Varanasi.

PM Modi arrives at Gilat Bazar in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

PM Narendra Modi Shares Inside Look of Surat Diamond Bourse, historic shift in Diamond Trade

PM Modi to arrive in Varanasi for 2-day visit to launch development projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be arriving on a two-day visit in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Sunday during which he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of 37 projects valued worth over Rs 19,000 crore for the development of the Varanasi and the Purvanchal region.Modi, who will reach here on Sunday afternoon, will be welcomed by Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, after which he will spend about 25 hours in Varanasi, an official statement said.

"'Made in India' has become an empowered brand today ensuring benefits to businesses across the country," says PM Modi while addressing the inauguration event of Surat Diamond Bourse in Gujarat.

"It is my guarantee that India will be among the top three economies in the world in my third term," says PM Modi while addressing the inauguration event of Surat Diamond Bourse in Gujarat.

Surat diamond industry giving employment to 8 lakh people; with the coming up of new diamond bourse, 1.5 lakh more will get jobs: Modi

Modi, who will reach Varanasi in afternoon, will be welcomed by Governor Anandiben Patel and CM Yogi Adityanath, after which he will spend about 25 hours in Varanasi, an official statement said here.

Watch: PM Narendra Modi inaugurates new integrated terminal at Surat airport | Narendra Modi | Surat

PM Modi to arrive in Varanasi shortly

) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be arriving on a two-day visit in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Sunday during which he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of 37 projects valued worth over Rs 19,000 crore for the development of the Varanasi and the Purvanchal region.

Several diamond traders, including those based in Mumbai earlier, have already taken possession of their offices, which were allotted by the management after auction, SDB's media convener Dinesh Navadiya said in a statement recently.

Bourse will comprise state of the art ‘Customs Clearance House’ for Import – Export; Jewellery mall for retail jewellery business and facility of International Banking and Safe Vaults.

It is a global centre for trading of both rough and polished diamonds as well as jewellery.

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PM arrives in Moscow to participate in the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit

During his visit, Prime Minister will co-chair the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with President H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin. He will also interact with the members of Indian Community in Moscow.

Departure Statement of Hon’ble PM for his official visits to the Russian Federation and the Republic of Austria

I am embarking on an official visit to the Russian Federation for the 22nd Annual Summit and my first ever visit to the Republic of Austria over the next three days.

PM greets people on Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted the people on the special occasion of Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year.

Austrian Chancellor welcomes upcoming visit of Indian PM, PM responds

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today thanked the Chancellor of Austria Karl Nehammer for his views on the upcoming  State Visit, a first in over 40 years by an Indian PM.

PM extends his greetings on the occasion of Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today wished the people on the occasion of sacred Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath.

PM extends greetings to His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 89th birthday

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has extended his greetings to His Holiness Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 89th birthday.

PM congratulates H.E Masoud Pezeshkian on being elected as the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated H.E Masoud Pezeshkian on being elected as the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

PM speaks to Keir Starmer and congratulates him for being elected as the UK PM

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke with Rt. Hon. Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom today.

Mizoram CM meets PM

Chief Minister of Mizoram Shri Lalduhoma met Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today.

PM pays tribute to Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on his birth anniversary

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today paid tribute to Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on his birth anniversary.

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PM’s address at the inauguration of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat

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PM inaugurates the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat

Dynamic, dedicated and determined, Narendra Modi arrives as a ray of hope in the lives of a billion Indians.

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PM Modi US Visit Highlights: New and proud journey of India-US ties has begun, says PM Modi

Pm modi in us highlights: pm modi addressed a gathering of diaspora leaders from across the country and left for cairo..

PM Modi US Visit 2023 Highlights: Prime Minister wrapped up his three-day visit to the United States with an address to the Indian community members. Cheering up the crowd, he said that people of Indian origin will not have to leave the US for getting H-1B visa renewal, PTI reported. He departed for Cairo for his first state visit to Egypt.

He also emphasised that a new and proud journey of India-US ties has begun and the world is watching the two great democracies strengthening their bond.

Before that, he met with top CEOs at the White House in Washington, news agency PTI reported. On Friday, he said the India-US partnership is not of convenience but one of conviction, shared commitments and compassion.

In his address to young entrepreneurs and professionals at the John F Kennedy Center here, Modi said whenever India has become strong, the world has benefited.

United States president Joe Biden , Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Mahindra and Mahindra chairman Anand Mahindra, American astronaut Sunita Williams attended the meeting. He is set to meet US Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. PM Modi will also address a gathering of diaspora leaders from across the country. Scroll down for the latest updates!

Meanwhile, during a state dinner on Thursday, PM Modi and US President Joe Biden hailed a new era in their countries’ relationship. “Two great nations, two great friends, and two great powers. Cheers,” Biden told Modi in a toast at the state dinner. “You are soft spoken, but when it comes to action, you are very strong,” PM Modi replied. On the guest list at the state dinner were several top executives from across the world, including Reliance Industries Chairman and MD Mukesh Ambani, Apple ’s Tim Cook and Google CEO Sunday Pichai.

Underlining that India and the US come from different circumstances and history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that this visit is one of the “great positive transformation ” and together they will demonstrate that “democracy is better and democracies deliver”. Modi, who addressed the joint session of the US Congress for almost an hour punctuated by applause and standing ovation for the second time, said, “When I was here in 2016, I said that our relationship is primed for a momentous future. That future is today.”

PM Modi US Visit Highlights: PM Modi meets US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at White House, attend State dinner | Scroll down for the latest updates

Derek O’Brien writes: The speech I wish Prime Minister Modi gave in the US

As a representative of the world’s largest democracy and an emissary of its goodwill to the world’s oldest democracy, I am honoured and delighted to be speaking once again before you. For democratic republics such as India and the United States, chambers and buildings such as this one — the Houses of Congress on Capitol Hill here in Washington, DC, and Parliament House in New  Delhi — are embodiments of popular sovereignty, repositories of the people’s trust and monuments blessed with the sacredness of a church, a temple, or indeed a mosque. Read more

Express View on PM Modi’s US visit: No longer defensive

When he addressed the joint session of the US Congress seven years ago this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had declared that India had ended its “historic hesitations” in dealing with the United States. Modi’s claim had credibility, given his record on improving relations with the US during the first two years as prime minister. In the years that followed, PM Modi took consistent steps to expand the engagement with the US. Read more

A footnote once, tech is the new driver of India-US diplomacy

The incredibly ambitious agenda for technology cooperation — ranging from artificial intelligence to outer space and quantum computing to telecommunications — unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden has the potential to transform the character of India-US bilateral relations and contribute to the restructuring of the regional and global order.

In a joint statement issued after the talks at the White House, the two leaders committed their governments to “facilitate greater technology sharing, co-development, and co-production opportunities between U.S. and Indian industry, government, and academic institutions.” They also directed the two bureaucracies to make “regular efforts to address export controls” and “enhance high technology commerce” between the two nations. C Raja Mohan explains

PM Modi shares glimpses of his US visit

PM Modi tweeted, "Concluding a very special USA visit, where I got to take part in numerous programmes and interactions aimed at adding momentum to the India-USA friendship. Our nations will keep working together to make our planet a better place for the coming generations."

Attended a vibrant program celebrating our Indian diaspora. A heartfelt tribute to the strength, diversity and contribution of our overseas community. Their passion is our pride! pic.twitter.com/0CnlzIUm4K — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 24, 2023

'US govt decided to return more than 100 antiquities stolen from India'

During his address to the diaspora , PM Modi also mentioned that the US government has decided to return antiquities stolen from India. “I am happy that the American government has decided to return more than 100 antiquities of India that were stolen from us. These antiquities had reached the international markets. I express my gratitude to the American government for this,” he said.

'Delighted to interact with the diaspora': PM Modi

'The India-USA partnership is driven by conviction and compassion. It is also a friendship that has bipartisan support,' PM Modi tweeted

Delighted to interact with the diaspora at the community programme in Washington DC. https://t.co/zc9HODeLX5 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 23, 2023

New and proud journey of India-US ties has begun: PM Modi

Wrapping up his four-day State Visit to the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday asserted that a new and proud journey of India-US ties has begun and the world is watching the two great democracies strengthening their bond. Addressing a cheerful gathering of Indian community members, Modi said the full potential of partnership between the two countries is yet to be realised and their ties is all about making the world better again in the 21st century, PTI reported

The two countries have seen convergence on global issues and their growing ties will be a boost for "make in India and make for world" efforts, he said, referring to agreements on technology transfer, boosting manufacturing and strengthening industrial supply chain.Both countries are taking strong steps for a better future, said the prime minister at the community address, which was the last programme of Modi in the US. He will now fly to Egypt on a State Visit at the invitation of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. He announced that people of Indian origin will not have to leave the US for getting H-1B visa renewal, drawing massive praise from people present in the hall and outside listening to him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the India-US partnership is not of convenience but one of conviction, shared commitments and compassion.In his address to young entrepreneurs and professionals at the John F Kennedy Center here, Modi said whenever India has become strong, the world has benefited.The prime minister said this was seen during the Covid pandemic. When the world needed medicines, India increased its production and provided medicines, he said at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, according to PTI reports.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has applauded Vice President Kamala Harris for her achievements, saying she was an inspiration to women across the world including India and the United States. According to PTI, Modi also heaped praise on Harris’ mother and said she kept her relationship with India alive despite living thousands of miles away.“Madam Vice President, you have taken this inspiration today to newer heights. Your achievements are an inspiration to not only the women in America but to women in India and women all across the world. This is really inspiring,” Modi said in his remarks at a State Department luncheon hosted in his honor by Harris and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Friday.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his commitment to strengthening US-India ties, as she along with Secretary of State Antony Blinken hosted a luncheon for the Indian leader at the State Department.

Prime Minister Modi is currently in Washington on a state visit at the invitation of President Joe Biden. The two leaders held a historic summit on Thursday. Biden also held a state dinner for him on Thursday.

"Prime Minister Modi, President Joe Biden and I are grateful for your commitment to strengthening the ties...between the United States and India. And we share that commitment under your leadership and that of President Biden our partnership has become more expansive than it has ever been," she said.

Harris said over the past two and a half years she along with Prime Minister Modi advanced cooperation on climate change on clean energy, terrorism, cybercrime, public health and vaccine production.

"And during this trip, our countries have launched new areas of cooperation from artificial intelligence to semiconductors. As we look toward the future, the United States and India, the world's oldest and largest democracies, instinctively turn to each other and are increasingly aligned," Harris said.

Harris also mentioned her mother Shyamala Gopalan, a breast cancer scientist who hailed from Chennai, during her address.

She also spoke about her deep connection to India and her grandfather.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that the combination of technology and talent will be a guarantee for a bright future for the world.

Modi made the remark at the India-US Hi-Tech handshake event organised at the White House and attended by US President Joe Biden and CEOs of top Indian and American companies.

"This morning (meeting) is only among a few friends but has brought with it the guarantee of a bright future," he said as President Biden nodded.

Modi, who is on a state visit to the US, also stressed that there is a great opportunity for everyone to take along Biden's vision and capabilities and India's aspirations and possibilities.

United States president Joe Biden Friday addressed the top CEOs at a meeting in Washington, news agency PTI reported.

VIDEO | US President Joe Biden addresses top CEOs during a meeting in Washington. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/cdDWzRHJ4t — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 23, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held one-on-one meeting with top CEOs in Washington, news agency PTI reported. United States president Joe Biden, Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Mahindra and Mahindra chairman Anand Mahindra, American astronaut Sunita Williams attended the meeting, the news agency reported.

VIDEO | PM Modi holds one-on-one meeting with top CEOs in Washington. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/u6Nbu3rsGX — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 23, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the historic Al-Hakim Mosque during his two-day State visit to Egypt.

The visit is set to begin from June 24 (Friday). The visit to Cairo, the first by Modi as Prime Minister, comes weeks after Egypt skipped the G20 working group meeting in Srinagar along with China, Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

PM Modi will be visiting the historic Al-Hakim Mosque on his two-day State visit to Egypt which is set to begin from June 24. PTI will be on ground to bring you all the latest visuals from PM's visit. pic.twitter.com/nwPXsBQdB8 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 23, 2023

Dear Readers,

While  addressing the US Congress , Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that when he first visited the US as the PM, India was the world’ 10th largest economy and eight years later it is the fifth-largest economy of the world. Further, he said that soon India will be the world’s third-largest economy in the world.

This categorisation of economies is based on aggregate GDP levels stated in current US dollar terms. In other words, one calculates the market value of all goods and services that are produced in every country in a year and then expresses it in terms of US dollars.

CHART 1 shows the top 10 economies by size and their GDP level in trillions of dollars. There is a vast gap between the US and China, which occupy the first two slots, and the rest of the field. Udit Misra explains.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to United States as "unprecedented," saying that several diplomatic and strategic decisions taken during the visit shall help build a "new India" with economic progress, news agency PTI reported.

BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani, addressing a press conference at party's headquarters, said that the visit has led to "significant outcomes" in defence sector, mong others. "Fifteen standing ovations and over a hundred applause to the prime minister's speech at the US Congress, this was not only the hallmark of the prime minister's visit to the US but what is unprecedented is the Indo-US partnership in many critical areas which will help serve a better future the Indian populace," she added.

"Several diplomatic and strategic decisions were taken during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US which will help build a new India with the resolve of Atmanirbhar Bharat, and provide opportunities of economic progress to Indians," she said.

Irani said that NASA and ISRO will develop a "strategic framework" for human space flight cooperation by the end of 2023, and a joint Indo-US quantum coordination mechanism will help facilitate collaboration between the industry, academic and government, according to the report.

"Those who want to deflect attention from the prime minister's personal efforts undertaken in strategic cooperation in defence, artificial intelligence, ecosystem of semiconductor assembly line and critical mineral engagements would like to raise the minority bogey," she charged. As the general elections come closer such "political gas-lighting" is expected, she claimed. "What I am grateful to is the prime minister's steadfast focus on issues that are critical to Indian economy," she added, the report said. (PTI)

The decision of the United States and India to end six major trade disputes at World Trade Organization (WTO) is a "big victory" and will be mutually beneficial for both countries, India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said, news agency PTI reported.

The resumption of talks at the Trade Policy Forum has started yielding significant results, Goyal said. New Delhi will also remove retaliatory customs duties on certain American products such as almonds, walnuts, and apples, according to the report.

A joint statement issued after the meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden in Washington said the two leaders welcomed the resolution of six outstanding WTO disputes through mutually agreed solutions. "It is a big victory for India and is a mutually beneficial arrangement for both countries," Goyal told the reporters. He said, now there are no pending India-US disputes at WTO.

"So, India and the US by the end of this year will have no disputes. All the six major ones have gone," the minister said adding "for the first time bilaterally we are ending the disputes." In 2015, India lost a long-pending dispute over poultry imports from the US at WTO's dispute settlement body. India had 12 months to comply with the WTO order. The US had sought trade sanctions against India in this case.

The six disputes include countervailing measures on certain hot-rolled carbon steel flat products from India, certain measures relating to solar cells and modules, measures relating to the renewable energy sector, export-related measures, certain measures on steel and aluminium products, and additional duties on some products from the US. (PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held  high-level talks  with US President Joe Biden at the White House on Thursday, following which the latter described the ties between the two nations as “stronger than ever.”

Modi, who is on his maiden ‘ state visit’  to the United States, also  addressed  the US Congress – becoming the first Indian prime minister to do so twice. “When India grows, it influences and uplifts everyone,” he told the American parliament.

In the evening, the Bidens hosted a grand  state banquet in Modi’s honour – a celebrity-studded affair attended by top Indian and American leaders. Read more

In a decision that will bring the two countries’ space programmes closer than ever before,   India on Thursday signed on to the three-year-old Artemis Accords , a US-led alliance seeking to facilitate international collaboration in planetary exploration and research.

In a related development, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will partner the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the US in sending a joint mission to the International Space Station, a permanent laboratory in space, next year. It was not immediately clear whether the joint mission would include an Indian astronaut to the space station. Read more

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first State visit to the US unfolded and he met President Joe Biden, the announcement of a mega deal between the  General Electric Aerospace and the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited  for the manufacture under licence in India of GE’s F414 engine for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2 sent a clear message – the beginning of the end of the technology denial regime.

Besides jet engines, deals on procuring drones, a space mission and manufacturing chips in India are among the big-ticket announcements. Read more

Mary Millben, a prominent African-American Hollywood actress and singer will perform on Friday at the concluding event for the Official State Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, news agecy PTI reported. 

Millben is popular in India for her singing of the National Anthem Jan Gana Mana and Om Jai Jagdiseh Hare. She will perform the Indian national anthem at an invitation-only, diaspora event hosted by the United States Indian Community Foundation (USICF) at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington DC.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday attended the US state dinner hosted by US President at White House where both the leaders expressed that the occasion celebrates great bonds of friendship between India and the United States.

They hailed a new era in their nation’s relationship and spoke about deals on defence and commerce, which are aimed at countering China’s influence. Read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first State visit to the US will take bilateral ties in areas of space, defence, emerging technology and supply chains to the next level, Vice President Kamala Harris has said.

Modi became the first Indian leader to address the joint session of the US Congress twice on Thursday. He first addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress in 2016.

"The US-India partnership is stronger than ever. Together, our nations will shape the future as we work to create a more prosperous, secure, and healthy world," Harris' office tweeted on Thursday. (PTI)

Welcome, @narendramodi . The partnership between the United States and India is one of the most important of the 21st century, and this visit will take our partnership to the next level — from space, to defense, to emerging technology and supply chains. pic.twitter.com/B55N16jRt7 — Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the members of the US Congress for coming together to celebrate their country's ties with India, saying there must be a contest of ideas at home but people must also come together as one while speaking for the nation.

Modi's remarks in his address to a joint session of the US Congress on Thursday came against the backdrop of Rahul Gandhi's frequent swipes at his government during his visits abroad, which the ruling BJP has often projected as the opposition leader's bid to malign the country from foreign soil to target the central government.  (PTI) 

"Prime Minister's visit to the United States has resulted in significant outcomes in the areas of defence, renewable energy and critical mineral cooperation, to name a few," Union Minister Smriti Irani said while addressing a press conference at BJP headquarters in New Delhi.

She further said that the MoU on semiconductor supply chain and innovation partnership will promote not only research but commercial opportunities as well.

Union Minister Smt. @smritiirani addresses a press conference at party headquarters in New Delhi. https://t.co/RTuCm1lcB0 — BJP (@BJP4India) June 23, 2023

Top American lawmakers have applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his address to the Joint Meeting of the US Congress that called for deepening the strong friendship between the two democracies, fostered by a range of close economic ties and expanded cooperation on areas like defence, trade and technology.

Representing 1.4 billion Indians, Modi who addressed the US Congress on Thursday, said it is always a great honour and an exceptional privilege to address the US Congress twice. This is the second time that the prime minister has addressed the US Congress, the first time being in 2016. (PTI) 

Big names in the tech world and billionaire industrialists such as Mukesh Ambani, Google CEO Sunder Pichai and Apple CEO Tim Cook were among those invited to the State Dinner hosted in the honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House on Thursday.

The menu, comprising mostly vegetarian dishes, taking note of the dietary restrictions of the visiting prime minister, included marinated millets, stuffed mushrooms, grilled corn kernel salad and cardamom-infused strawberry shortcake.

More than 400 guests were invited for the dinner hosted by US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at a specially decorated pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House. (PTI)

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra has said that technology cooperation featured prominently in the discussion between India and the US and described it as one of the most substantive outcomes of the ongoing state visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Very clearly, technology, in particular advanced technology, across all domains ranging from defence to space and energy is one of the most important substantive outcomes," he told reporters in a media briefing on Thursday.

"Technology featured in talks, not in a limited way but technology cooperation across the ecosystem. This included technology transfer, services and working together in research among other domains," he added. (PTI)

During the official state dinner at the White House PM Narendra Modi talked about the growing popularity of Cricket in the US.

"Amidst the love for Baseball, Cricket is also getting popular in the US. The American team is trying their best to qualify for the Cricket World Cup to be held in India later this year. I wish them good luck and success," PM Modi said.

#WATCH | Amidst the love for Baseball, Cricket is also getting popular in the US. The American team is trying their best to qualify for the Cricket World Cup to be held in India later this year. I wish them good luck and success: PM Modi during the official State Dinner at The… pic.twitter.com/996i2fkdJx — ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2023

Plant-based   courses of millet and stuffed mushrooms were on the menu for some 400 guests invited to Thursday’s fancy White House state dinner honoring Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Modi is a vegetarian and first lady Jill Biden enlisted California-based chef Nancy Curtis, who specializes in plant-based cooking, to help in the kitchen. Biden previewed the menu and decor for the news media on Wednesday after she returned from an outing with the prime minister. Read more

On Thursday (local time), 'Naatu Naatu' was highlighted by PM Narendra Modi in a special address during the State dinner at the White House.

"With every passing day, Indians and Americans are getting to know each other better. We can pronounce each other's name correctly, we can understand each other's accent better... Children in India become Spider-Man on Halloween and America's youth is dancing to the tunes of 'Naatu Naatu'," PM Modi said. (ANI)

#WATCH | Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra briefs about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ongoing State visit to the USA pic.twitter.com/vPuK2IpYr0 — ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2023

Acknowledging the progress made by Indian Americans in the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that they have played a significant role in further strengthening the inclusive society and economy of the US.

During his speech at the state dinner held at the White House, PM Modi said, "Indian Americans have come a long way in the US and have always found a respectful place in America's melting pot. Indian Americans have played a significant role in further strengthening the inclusive society and economy of the US." He also thanked US President Joe Biden for hosting a wonderful dinner and making the visit successful. (ANI)

#WATCH | US Congressmen lined up to take autographs and selfies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after his address to the joint sitting of the US Congress, earlier today. pic.twitter.com/wkPdacGjHN — ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2023

US President Joe Biden by his side, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday that “democracy is in our DNA”, and “there is absolutely no question of discrimination” regardless of “caste, creed, religion and gender”. He was responding to a journalist’s question about what steps his government is willing to take to improve the rights of minorities in India and to uphold free speech.

At the joint press conference where the leaders took questions from one reporter from each side, Biden, on being asked about raising issues of human rights and democracy with the visiting Prime Minister, said, “Prime Minister and I had a good discussion about democratic values… and that is the best part of our relationship. We are straightforward with each other and we respect each other.” Read more

In an almost one hour speech to the US Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched upon a variety of themes. They were met with applause and standing ovation several times by the US Congress members, including Vice President Kamala Harris.

The speech this time was longer in duration than last time, which was about 45 minutes in 2016.

Here are the 15 key takeaways from the PM’s speech

PM Naredra Modi thanked US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for hosting the State Dinner in his honour at the White House. "I extend my heartfelt appreciation to US President Joe Biden for hosting this remarkable dinner today. I would also like to express my sincere thanks to First Lady Jill Biden for her exceptional hospitality and diligent efforts in ensuring the success of my visit," says Modi.

#WATCH | I want to thank US President Joe Biden for this wonderful dinner today. I would also like to thank First Lady Jill Biden for taking care of my visit to make it successful. Yesterday evening you opened the doors of your house for me: PM Modi during the official State… pic.twitter.com/ZQqzZV2kz5 — ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2023

Jill and I thoroughly enjoyed our time with Prime Minister Modi today, expresses US President Joe Biden. Tonight, we are celebrating the exceptional bonds of friendship between India and the United States, he added.

VIDEO | 'Tonight it's a fitting way to celebrate,' says US President Joe Biden as he hosts PM Modi for State Dinner at the White House. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/Bvvw8tK9q1 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 23, 2023

US President Joe Biden, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, make their way towards the venue for the State Dinner at the White House.

#WATCH | US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi head towards the venue for the State dinner at the White House. pic.twitter.com/IRlOuP4H72 — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Guests continue to arrive arriving at the White House ahead of the State Dinner hosted for PM Modi. Google CEO Sundar Pichai, US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella are in attendance.

VIDEO | More visuals of guests arriving at the White House ahead of the State Dinner hosted for PM Modi. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/giMSq5Frcb — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the White House for State Dinner.

VIDEO | PM Modi poses for shutterbugs with US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden ahead of the State Dinner hosted for him at the White House. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/RZQkfTKsPX — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Modi categorically stated that terrorism is an enemy of humanity. PM Modi stressed the importance of confronting terrorism head-on while speaking to the joint session of the US Congress.

He said that radicalization and terrorism continue to pose serious challenges to the entire world even 20 years after 9/11 and 10 years after the 26/11 terrorist attacks in Mumbai. 

It is essential for us to defeat any organisations that sponsor and export terrorism, adds Modi.

Terrorism is an enemy of humanity and there can be no ifs and buts in dealing with it. We must overcome all such forces sponsoring and exporting terror: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the joint sitting of the US Congress pic.twitter.com/mxfKyg6E1U — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Speaking to the US Congress' joint session, the prime minister declared that India had reached a critical milestone by becoming the only G20 nation to carry out its obligation under the Paris Agreement.

India has outperformed expectations by achieving its objective of using more than 40% renewable energy sources, which was attained nine years earlier than the initial target date of 2030, said PM Modi.

#WATCH | "...We became the only G20 country to meet its Paris commitment. We made renewables account for over 40% of our energy sources 9 years ahead of the target of 2030. But we did not stop there. At the Glasgow Summit, I proposed mission LiFE...Our mission is pro-planet… pic.twitter.com/6qnS29U4ZI — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

PM Modi stresses the urgent need to put an end to the bloodshed in the Ukraine war, urging for all possible efforts to be made in order to achieve that.

PM Modi said that India lives by the motto of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — that the world is one family. He emphasized that it is the same attitude that India highlights as it chairs the G20 Summit.

In modern India, women are at the forefront of shaping a better future, says PM Modi during his address to the joint session of the US Congress.

He highlights that India's vision extends beyond mere development that benefits women; it encompasses a paradigm of women-led development, where women take charge of the journey towards progress.

#WATCH | "...today in modern India, women are leading us to a better future. India's vision is not just of development that benefits women. It is of women-led development where women lead the journey of progress. A woman has risen from a humble tribal background to be our Head of… pic.twitter.com/VwvucEA6VX — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Referring to the example of Draupadi Murmu, PM Modi applauded the ascent of a woman from a tribal background to become the President of India.

#WATCH | '...today in modern India, women are leading us to a better future. India's vision is not just of development that benefits women. It is of women-led development where women lead the journey of progress. A woman has risen from a humble tribal background to be our Head of… pic.twitter.com/VwvucEA6VX — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

When I first visited the US as Prime Minister, India held the position of the 10th largest economy globally. Today, I am proud to announce that India has risen to become the 5th largest economy. And I assure you, we are on track to become the third-largest economy in the near future. Not only are we expanding in size, but we are also growing at an accelerated pace, adds PM Modi.

He asserts that India's progress and economic growth have far-reaching implications, benefiting not only the nation itself but also having an impact on the entire world. When India grows, it influences and uplifts everyone, says PM Modi during his address to the joint session of the US Congress.

#WATCH | 'When I first visited the US as a PM, India was the 10th largest economy in the world. Today, India is the 5th largest economy. India will be the 3rd largest economy soon. We are not only growing bigger but we are also growing faster. When India grows the whole world… pic.twitter.com/saO9qgM7IA — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Democracy is a sacred and shared value embraced by both India and the United States. He acknowledges that throughout history, it has been evident that democracy upholds the principles of equality and dignity, says PM Modi. Democracy, according to him, is not just an idea, but a vibrant spirit that encourages open discussions and debates. It is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of both nations.

PM Modi further emphasizes that India is fortunate to have cherished these democratic values since time immemorial. He affirms the commitment to work together with the United States in order to create a brighter future for the world. By fostering democracy and upholding its values, the Prime Minister believes that they can collectively contribute to a better world for generations to come.

#WATCH | Democracy is one of our sacred and shared values. Throughout history, one thing has been clear, democracy is the spirit that supports equality and dignity. Democracy is the idea that welcomes debate and discourse. Democracy is the culture that gives wings to thought and… pic.twitter.com/UmikrInO2V — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserts that the foundation of America is inspired by the vision of a nation of equal citizens. He emphasises the presence of millions of people with Indian ancestors throughout the country, some of whom are proudly seated in the chamber, including one directly behind him, pointing to the Indian origin of US Vice President Kamala Harris.

#WATCH | 'I can relate to the battles of patience, persuasion and policy. I can understand the debate of ideas and ideology. But I am delighted to see you come together to celebrate the bonds between two great democracies - India and the United States,' PM Narendra Modi addresses… pic.twitter.com/VwS6T7sj1D — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the US House of Representatives, where he is warmly welcomed by the enthusiastic chants of 'Modi Modi'.

Vice President Kamala Harris arrives at the US House of Representatives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will shortly address the Joint Session of the United States Congress.

#WATCH | US Vice President Kamala Harris arrives at the US House of Representatives, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the joint session of the US Congress. pic.twitter.com/2M50A7NHhk — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Prior to his address to the Joint Session of the United States Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets with Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy at the US Capitol.

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy at the US Capitol. (Source: Speaker's office) pic.twitter.com/X4VacW1rEz — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Capitol Hill, where he will address the Joint Session of the United States Congress.

#WATCH | Washington, DC | Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Capitol Hill where he will address the Joint Sitting of the US Congress shortly. pic.twitter.com/82IR0bbtQF — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Joint Session of the United States Congress shortly. Outside Capitol Hill, members of the Indian diaspora are waiting for PM Modi.

Washington, DC | Members of the Indian diaspora stand outside Capitol Hill, as they await the arrival of PM Narendra Modi. PM will address the Joint Sitting of the US Congress shortly. pic.twitter.com/ZQf4XvX3kt — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

PM Modi claims that the two countries' economic relationship is booming, with trade nearly doubling over the last decade to approach $191 billion.

He emphasises that this expansion has resulted in the development of tens of thousands of high-quality jobs in both India and the United States. PM Modi goes on to say that as a result of this strong economic alliance, one million American jobs in 44 states will be supported.

#WATCH | Our economic relationship is booming. Trade between our countries has almost doubled over the past decade to more than $191 billion supporting tens of thousands of good jobs in both India and the United States. One million American jobs across 44 states will be supported… pic.twitter.com/apMtQDCPQZ — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

At a joint press conference with US President Joe Biden at the White House, PM Modi declares that the partnership between India and the US knows no bounds.

“Even Sky isn’t the limit for India and US partnership. Indian-Americans are the real strength between India and the US and their relations”, says PM Modi at a joint PC with US President Joe Biden at the White House. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/Hfiq35dEP1 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 22, 2023

PM Modi acknowledges that Indian-Americans are the true backbone of the India-US relationship, emphasizing their vital role in strengthening the ties between the two nations.

PM Modi expressed his surprise regarding the statements made about discrimination against religious minorities, emphasizing the deeply ingrained democratic values in both India and America.

The PM highlighted that democracy is an integral part of their national identity and shared heritage, flowing through their veins and spirits. Modi affirmed that democracy is not just a concept but a living reality manifested in their constitutions and governments.

Democracy can deliver and when we talk about democracy, there is no discrimination on basis of caste, creed, religion etc: PM Modi — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 22, 2023

US President Joe Biden underlines that the partnership between the United States and India as one of the most significant in the world, with unprecedented strength, closeness, and dynamism compared to any other time in history.

President Biden revealed that Indian companies are declaring over $2 billion in investments in the United States during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington.

The partnership is among the most consequential in the world that is stronger, closer and more dynamic in any time in history: US President Joe Biden issues joint press statement with PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/PtXpFW9LiW — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023

US President Joe Biden and PM Modi enter the East Room of the White House for a joint press briefing.

US President Joe Biden and PM Modi arrive at the East Room of the White House for joint press briefing. #PMModiUSVisit pic.twitter.com/hy4fYhnO5c — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 22, 2023

India-US relationship is not only important for both the nations but also for the world. Today holds a special importance in history of India-US relations today, we discussed several regional and global issues during our meeting: PM Modi

The India-US relationship is reaching a new high point. But the significance of  Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip  to the US will be obscured by short-term political framings. There will be the sheer political theatre of the US courting India and the Prime Minister leveraging this moment to shore up his domestic political legitimacy. There will be the disappointment of those who think the Biden Administration is actually going out of its way to give its imprimatur on the state of India’s democracy. But “democracy” was not going to be an issue in this phase of India-US relations.

PRATAP BHANU MEHTA WRITES | Making of a high point

PM Modi will address a joint session of the US Congress on June 22 , becoming the first Indian prime minister to be accorded this honour twice. Before him, only a handful of Indian PMs have given speeches to US Congressmen and Congresswomen. Here is a look at all those addresses and the context in which they were delivered.

Who are the Indian PMs who have addressed US Congress in the past? Read here

State visits are the highest-ranked category of foreign visits to the US, where the head of a state visits the US on the formal invitation of the US President. Before Modi, the only two state visits under President Joe Biden have been by France’s President Emmanuel Macron and South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol. Invitation for a state visit signifies that the US considers the guest nation an important friend and ally.

Express Explained | What is a state dinner, which he will attend at the White House?

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Indian PM Modi wraps up Washington trip with appeal to tech CEOs

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Jeff Mason is a White House Correspondent for Reuters. He has covered the presidencies of Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden and the presidential campaigns of Biden, Trump, Obama, Hillary Clinton and John McCain. He served as president of the White House Correspondents’ Association in 2016-2017, leading the press corps in advocating for press freedom in the early days of the Trump administration. His and the WHCA's work was recognized with Deutsche Welle's "Freedom of Speech Award." Jeff has asked pointed questions of domestic and foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un. He is a winner of the WHCA's “Excellence in Presidential News Coverage Under Deadline Pressure" award and co-winner of the Association for Business Journalists' "Breaking News" award. Jeff began his career in Frankfurt, Germany as a business reporter before being posted to Brussels, Belgium, where he covered the European Union. Jeff appears regularly on television and radio and teaches political journalism at Georgetown University. He is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and a former Fulbright scholar.

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Biden welcomes Indian Prime Minister Modi for state visit

Modi's trip to Washington, though, isn't without controversy.

President Joe Biden rolled out the red carpet Thursday for Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India for the third state visit of his presidency.

The visit will put on full display the "deep and close partnership" between the U.S. and India, the White House said, despite concerns India's democratic principles have eroded under Modi's leadership.

The relationship has been described by Biden as "one of the most important" of this century as the U.S. rebalances its foreign policy focus to the Indo-Pacific in the face of an increasingly aggressive China. Just ahead of Modi's visit, President Biden suggested Chinese President Xi Jinping was a "dictator."

"There's a strategic imperative in the region," Tanvi Madan, the director of The India Project at the Brookings Institution, told ABC News. "Multiple administrations have seen India as a geopolitical counterbalance, an economic alternative and a democratic contrast to China."

The two leaders greeted each other warmly on the South Lawn in a welcome featuring marching bands and honor guards, despite rainy weather. Vice President Kamala Harris, the first person of Indian descent in her role, and second gentleman Doug Emhoff were also there to greet the prime minister.

"The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together, and we are," Biden said.

Modi said the partnership between the U.S. and India "will be instrumental in enhancing the strength of the whole world."

Biden and Modi met in the Oval Office and appeared side by side at a brief news conference in the East Room, a rarity for Modi who only held his first-ever press conference in India in 2019 after being in power for five years.

MORE: World population reaches 8 billion, India to overtake China to become most populated country

Modi also appeared on Capitol Hill to address a joint meeting of Congress before a state dinner at the White House Thursday night.

The prime minister received a standing ovation as he entered the chamber to chants of "Modi, Modi" from members, though a handful of progressive Democrats boycotted the speech, citing reports of human rights abuses.

Modi took a moment to note those in the chamber who have Indian roots, turning to point to Vice President Harris seated behind him whom he celebrated as having "made history."

"We come from different circumstances and history, but we are united by a common vision. And, by a common destiny," Modi told lawmakers in closing. "When our partnership progresses, economic resilience increases, innovation grows, science flourishes, knowledge advances, humanity benefits, our seas and skies are safer, democracy will shine brighter and the world will be a better place."

About 400 guests are expected to attend the dinner, the White House said, which will include a plant-based menu and a mixture of American and Indian decor. There will be performances from American violinist Joshua Bell and from Penn Masala, a South Asian a cappella group from the University of Pennsylvania.

Modi's trip to Washington, though, isn't without controversy as the prime minister's been criticized for a rise in violence against religious minorities as well as a crackdown on the press and dissenters.

Some democracy watchdogs have downgraded India's rating in recent years. The U.S.-based Freedom House rated India as "partly free" in its 2023 report, and the Sweden-based Varieties of Democracy called India an "electoral autocracy."

"He's got a mixed record," Richard Rossow, chair U.S.-India Policy Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said of Modi. "We do see at times he feels politically weak domestically, he's initiated steps that directly or indirectly seem to stoke the fears of religious intolerance by him and his party. And we've also seen crackdown on civil society to some extent."

Human rights advocates and at least 70 lawmakers called on Biden to directly address human rights violations during Modi's visit. Experts told ABC News any human rights or democratic issues will likely be taken up in private between the two leaders.

Biden was asked during the news conference about those who've criticized his administration as overlooking such human rights concerns in hosting Modi.

"Look, the prime minister and I had a good discussion about democratic values," Biden responded. That's the nature of our relationship, we're straightforward with each other and we respect each other."

"I believe that we believe in the dignity of every citizen and it is in America's and I believe in India's DNA that the whole world, the whole world has a stake in our success," the president continued. "Both of us, in maintaining our democracies, make us appealing partners and enables us to expand democratic institutions across, around the world."

Modi, meanwhile, sidestepped a question on recent allegations of human right abuses as he claimed in India "there's absolutely no discrimination, neither on basis of cast, creed, or age, or any kind of geographic location."

"I'm actually really surprised that people say so," the prime minister said as he defended his government. "Indeed, India is a democracy ... democracy is in our DNA. democracy is our spirit. democracy runs in our veins. We live democracy."

Also at issue during the trip was Russia. India, which has long relied on Russian oil and weapons, has avoided outrightly condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

But experts noted Modi's slight change in tone when it comes to Russia's invasion, such as his recent statements on the importance of territorial integrity and sovereignty.

"Both Washington and New Delhi understand that they will not necessarily see eye to eye on Russia," Kenneth Juster, who served as the U.S. ambassador to India during the Trump administration, told ABC News. "But they can discuss that issue candidly with each other, and it is not going to have a negative impact on their broader strategic partnership."

A senior Biden official said the White House would "engage actively" with India on issues related to Russia and Ukraine, specifically India's efforts to diversify away from Russian military equipment.

MORE: 2,000 trauma operations in a year: Inside Ukraine's leading battlefield hospital

Talks between Biden and Modi also included trade, climate and space.

The two leaders announced a number of new commitments, including a joint space mission as well as various investments in technology, defense and clean energy.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking to the U.S.-India Business Council last week, touted trade between the two nations reached a record $191 billion. Blinken noted the U.S. is India's largest trading partner, and Indian companies invested more than $40 billion in the U.S. in IT, pharmaceuticals and more.

Though Juster said be believed there is still more work to do to advance on the trade front ahead of the state visit.

"For the world's largest economy, the United States, and its fifth largest economy, India, I believe that their bilateral trade relationship does not fulfill all of its potential. I am hoping that the two countries can continue to advance their trade and investment relationship both bilaterally and regionally, because economic issues are so important in the Indo-Pacific and China has a robust economic strategy for the region," he said.

Prior to landing in Washington, Modi met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk as well as other business leaders and health care experts.

He also marked International Day of Yoga by participating in a group session on the lawn of the United Nations headquarters.

The last time Modi visited the U.S. was in 2019, when he appeared alongside former President Donald Trump at a "Howdy Modi" rally in Texas attended by tens of thousands of people.

-ABC News' Ben Gittleson and Sarah Kolinovsky contributed to this report.

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PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit highlight: PM Modi offers prayers at Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit highlight: PM Modi has reached Madurai in Tamil Nadu on Tuesday. He offered prayers at the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple in the city. In Madurai, PM Modi also attended Digital Mobility Initiative for Automotive MSMEs and addressed entrepreneurs and industrialists at the event. He launched TVS Open Mobility Platform. ...Read More

This marks the Prime Minister's third visit to the state this year. In January, Modi undertook two visits, inaugurating developmental projects totaling over ₹ 4,000 crore in Kochi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi holds roadshow in Madurai

On Tuesday, PM Modi held a roadshow in Madurai. He was warmly greeted by a gathering along the streets during his roadshow.

In Madurai, PM Modi also attended Digital Mobility Initiative for Automotive MSMEs and addressed entrepreneurs and industrialists at the event. He launched TVS Open Mobility Platform during the event.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: What gifts PM Modi got in Tamil Nadu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was gifted a 67-kg turmeric garland in Palladam in Tamil Nadu by people of Erode on Tuesday. The people showed their gratitude for the establishment of Turmeric Board. Dig Deeper

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi offers prayers at Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai

Check out this video of PM Modi offering prayers at Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi meets German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann, whom he earlier mentioned in one of the episodes of his monthly radio broadcast 'Mann Ki Baat', and her mother in Palladam, Tamil Nadu, reported news agency ANI.

During the meeting, Cassandra Mae performed the song 'Achyutam Keshavam' and a Tamil song in front of the Prime Minister.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'We want that all old vehicles should be scrapped,' says PM Modi

"We want that all old vehicles should be scrapped and new modern vehicles should enter the market. This is a great opportunity for all industrialists," said PM Modi.

"Our country has been on the top in ship breaking in world. We have become a market for recycled material from ship breaking. We need to take advantage of these materials," added Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'We need skilled universities,' says PM Modi

"We have created separate ministry for skill development. I believe that skill plays a big role. So, we need skilled universities which keep upgrading themselves regularly. With support for Electric Vehicles, MSME sector is also getting new opportunities," says PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'India is looking at future of MSMEs as its own future,' says PM Modi

"Small industries played a big role in India's victory over Covid. That's why India is looking at future of MSMEs as its own future," says PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'Our MSMEs have great oppurtunity to be part of global supply chain,' says PM Modi

"In many cars, components manufactured by India's MSMEs is used. Many global opportunities are knocking our door(today). Our MSMEs have a great oppurtunity to become part of global supply chain," says PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: ' Tamil Nadu has proved itself globally in the field of automotive industry,' says PM Modi

"It's great pleasure to be amongst such minds of technology and innovation. It's like I am visiting a laboratory which is shaping the future. Tamil Nadu has proved itself globally in the field of automotive industry," says PM Modi while attending Digital Mobility Initiative for Automotive MSMEs in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi launches TVS Open Mobility Platform

On Tuesday, PM Modi launched TVS Open Mobility Platform while attending 'Creating the Future - Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs' in Madurai.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi attends 'Creating the Future - Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs' in Madurai

PM Modi is participating in the programme 'Creating the Future - Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs' in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

The Prime Minister will also launch two major initiatives designed to support and uplift MSMEs in the Indian automotive industry.

The initiatives include the TVS Open Mobility Platform and the TVS Mobility-CII Centre of Excellence.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'MGR did not practice dynasty politics', says Modi

Addressing a rally in Tamil Nadu's Tiruppur district on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MGR a "true leader," and hailed MGR's commitment to governance devoid of "dynasty politics".

"MGR did not practice dynasty politics. During my visit to Sri Lanka, I got a chance to visit Kandy - the birthplace of MGR. Today, I am at his 'karmabhoomi' - Tamil Nadu. MGR had broken tradition of dynastic (politics) and started the tradition of good governance. He worked for quality education and healthcare, and that's why women respected him a lot," PM Modi said as quoted by news agency ANI.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'Tamil Nadu people have decided to close shops of loot of INDIA bloc,' says PM Modi

"In 2024, Tamil Nadu people have decided to close shops of loot of INDIA bloc. 'En Mann Ek Makkal' yatra has helped create lock for such shops of loot. Now, BJP is getting ready to end corruption based politics in Tamil Nadu," said PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'Funding of more than 2 lakh crore under Mudra loan given to Tamil Nadu industrialists,' says PM Modi

"Tamil Nadu industrialists have been given funding of more than 2 lakh crore under Mudra loan. Was this possible under Congress government?. Modi is working for the development of Tamil Nadu and that's why INDIA bloc is getting irritated by Modi," said PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi remembers Jayalalithaa

"Jayalalithaa (late Tamil Nadu CM) dedicated her whole life for the welfare of Tamil Nadu people. Some days ago, it was her birth anniversary, I pay my tributes to her. I was fortunate to have worked with her for a long time," says PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: PM Modi hits out at DMK and Congress

"BJP government has given more money to Tamil Nadu than before. Please remember DMK and Congress are allies for a long time. From 2004 to 2014, DMK people were top ministers in Congress-led UPA government but they never prioritised the development of Tamil Nadu people," says PM Modi.

PM Narendra Modi Tamil Nadu visit LIVE: 'Tamil Nadu has always been in BJP's hearts,' says PM Modi

"Tamil Nadu has always been in BJP's hearts. Tamil Nadu people are aware of this," said PM Modi in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: PM Modi arrives in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the closing ceremony of 'En Mann Ek Makkal' padayatra in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: 'Congress and Communists are each other's enemies in Kerala, but in other states, they are BFFs,' says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday took a swipe at the Congress and Communist parties, which are making efforts to form a strong alternative against the BJP at the Centre, pointing out they are each other's enemies in Kerala, but in other states, they are BFFs—Best Friends Forever, reported news agency PTI.

"The Congress and the Communists are each other's enemies in Kerala, but in other states, they are BFFs. BFFs means best friends forever," the PM said.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: Three major space infrastructure projects inaugurated

On Tuesday, PM Modi inaugurated three major space infrastructure projects of ISRO during his visit to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).

The projects inaugurated by Modi are-- a Trisonic Wind Tunnel at VSSC, a Semi-Cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test Facility at ISRO's propulsion complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, and the PSLV Integration Facility at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR) in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota.

‘Congress, Communist alliances have one priority’: PM Modi addressing a gathering in Kerala

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "BJP has never come to power in Kerala but I have laid my track record in front of you. Congress and its other communist alliances have only one priority. They only let their family to rule the country. For them, the welfare of their family is superior to the welfare of Indians...In Kerala, they are each other's enemies but outside Kerala, they are BFFs, which means Best Friends Forever..."

PM Narendra Modi Kerala Visit Live: BJP does not see any state as ‘vote-bank,' says PM Modi

Gaganyaan Mission Live Updates: BJP has never seen any Indian state from the perspective of a vote-bank. Even when the BJP was not strong in Kerala, even then we worked day in and day out to empower Kerala. Over the past 10 years, the benefits of development have been reaped by Kerala as much as done by the BJP-ruled states: PM Modi

PM Narendra Modi Kerala Visit Live: Opposition has already accepted its defeat, says PM Modi

Gaganyaan Mission Live Updates: The opposition has accepted its defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It does not have a road map for the development of the country, hence it has made only one agenda, to abuse Modi. I know that Kerala will never stand with those having such negative thoughts, Kerala will bless BJP and NDA for nation-building. People are walking shoulder to shoulder with BJP on the streets, which in itself is a big message: PM Modi

Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated in Kerala

‘by 2035, india will have own space station…’: pm modi at vssc.

PM Modi says "By 2035, India will have its own space station in space that will help us study the unknown expanses of space. In this period of Amrit Kaal, Indian astronaut will land on the surface of the moon on our own rocket..."

'As the whole world looks up to Bharat…': Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh says, "With the absolute support and patronage provided by PM Modi, it is today possible that India is taking lead in the Space sector, as the whole world looks up to Bharat while Gaganyaan prepares to carry Indian astronauts into the Space."

‘An Indian poised to venture into space’: PM Modi

“After 4 decades, an Indian is poised to venture into space. This time the countdown, the timing, and even the rocket is ours,” PM at VSSC in Kerala

'In the development journey of every country…': Modi at VSSC

PM Modi says "In the development journey of every country, there are some moments which not only define the present, but also the future of its coming generations. Today is one such moment for India..."

Watch: PM Modi reveals names of astronauts picked for Gaganyaan mission at ISRO centre

‘give standing ovation to our astronauts’: pm modi reviews gaganyaan mission.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "I want everyone to give a standing ovation to our astronauts..."

PM Modi meets four astronaut-designates for Gaganyaan Mission

Prime Minister Narendra Modi assesses the advancement of the Gaganyaan Mission and confers astronaut wings upon the designated astronauts.

S Somnath facilitates PM Modi at VSSC

ISRO chairman S Somanath extends his respects to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a felicitation ceremony held at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram.

"With the support of our honourable PM, the space sector is going rapid transformation for expansion... The long-term space vision for the 'Amrit Kaal' has already been announced by the honourable PM. The vision has been created for accomplishing the 'Viksit Bharat' with space sector as the torch bearer," says Somanath at VSSC. Shortly, PM Modi is scheduled to inaugurate numerous projects at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).

PM Modi visits VSSC with Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and MoS Muraleedharan

PM Modi visits VSSC with Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and MoS Muraleedharan.

Watch: Modi reaches Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with ISRO chairman S Somanath visits Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: Prime Minister unveils multi-faceted infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu

The Prime Minister is set to lay the foundation stone of the Outer Harbor Container Terminal at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, marking a significant step towards the port's evolution into a transshipment hub for the East Coast.

Additionally, under the Harit Nauka initiative, the Prime Minister will launch India's maiden indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister will inaugurate tourist facilities in 75 lighthouses spanning across ten States/Union Territories during the event.

Among the key unveilings, the Prime Minister will dedicate rail projects for the doubling of the Vanchi Maniyachchi - Nagercoil rail line, including the Vanchi Maniyachchi - Tirunelveli and Melappalayam - Aralvaymoli sections. With an investment of approximately ₹ 1,477 crore, these projects aim to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time for trains heading towards Chennai from Kanyakumari, Nagercoil, and Tirunelveli.

Moreover, the Prime Minister will dedicate four road projects in Tamil Nadu, developed at a collective cost of about ₹ 4,586 crore, further bolstering the state's infrastructure landscape.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: Prime Minister to Unveil MSME Initiatives in Madurai

In the afternoon, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to take part in the event titled 'Creating the Future - Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs' in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

During the event, the Prime Minister will introduce two significant initiatives aimed at bolstering and empowering MSMEs within the Indian automotive sector. These initiatives comprise the TVS Open Mobility Platform and the TVS Mobility-CII Centre of Excellence.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: Prime Minister to inaugurate state-of-the-art space projects in Thiruvananthapuram

The Prime Minister is set to commence his visit from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on Tuesday. According to the Prime Minister's Office, three groundbreaking projects aimed at enhancing technical capabilities in the space sector have been unveiled, with a combined investment of approximately ₹ 1800 crore.

These projects encompass the PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) located at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, the new 'Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test Facility' at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, and the 'Trisonic Wind Tunnel' situated at VSSC in Thiruvananthapuram.

PM Narendra Modi Kerala visit LIVE: PM Modi says he is looking forward to Kerala visit

PM Narendra Modi said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, “Over the next two days, 27th and 28th February, I will be in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra to attend various programmes. From space to the seas, from agriculture to MSMEs, these programmes will cover diverse sectors.”

“In Thiruvananthapuram tomorrow, I will be at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, where 3 key projects relating to the space sector will be inaugurated. These projects will ensure better technical facilities for the sector. I will also review the progress in the Gaganyaan Mission.”

He added, “I look forward to being among the people of Thiruvananthapuram at the @BJP4Keralam public meeting in the city on the 27th afternoon. Kerala is tired of UDF and LDF and the people of this great state are all set to support the BJP in a big way.”

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