The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) hosted the US-India Summit and Capitol Hill Legislative Day on July 15, 2025, at the US Capitol in Washington DC. The event brought together U.S. and Indian American lawmakers along with others to underscore the deepening strategic and bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Throughout the day, nearly 150 delegates from over 20 U.S. states engaged with more than 120 elected officials. Discussions focused on a range of policy areas, including the U.S.-India partnership, Quad, I2U2, and IMEC alliances, trade and security, comprehensive immigration reform, counterterrorism, religious tolerance, market access, and investment opportunities.

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, praised FIIDS for its efforts. Emphasizing the shared democratic values of both nations, Ambassador Kwatra said, “Indian diaspora, actually serves as a living bridge between our two societies, between our two economies, and actually between our two countries.” 

He commended FIIDS not only for strengthening bilateral ties, but also for mobilizing the Indian American community across the United States. He called Congressman Shri Thanedar “one among the strongest supporters of the relationship between our two countries.”

Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) expressed appreciation for the turnout, noting the importance of political engagement within the Indian American community. He urged deeper civic involvement to amplify Indian American influence, stating, “We still don’t have the kind of political power the Indian Americans deserve in this country,” and highlighted the critical role immigrants play in sustaining America’s innovation leadership.

FIIDS President Khanderao Kand clarified the summit’s purpose stating, “These meetings with lawmakers were not just photo ops.” He noted that delegates held substantive discussions on key issues such as critical minerals, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, Indo-Pacific security challenges, intelligence cooperation, and comprehensive immigration reforms, including the reintroduction of the EAGLE Act.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8) emphasized the expanding dimensions of the U.S.-India relationship. “Stronger, deeper, and wider,” he described it, spanning trade, security, and people-to-people ties. He highlighted the growth in bilateral trade, from $20 billion in 2000 to over $200 billion today, and affirmed the relationship’s bipartisan support.

Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17) emphasized the importance of long-term political engagement, noting that building influence takes time and sustained effort. He lauded the work of Kand and FIIDS in advancing shared causes.

As co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, he also recalled the caucus’s firm stance supporting India’s right to self-defense following the Pahalgam attacks, reinforcing Congress’s recognition of India as a key military, economic, and technological ally.

Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) underscored the need to empower the next generation of Indian Americans. He praised FIIDS for encouraging young Indian Americans to embrace their cultural roots while participating fully in American civic life. He noted there is a policy program for Indian American students, and he is very excited to support causes like that.

Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6) reaffirmed his commitment to advancing U.S.-India strategic cooperation, particularly within the Quad framework. Reflecting on his long-standing advocacy, he highlighted India’s growing global role and emphasized the importance of expanding trade and investment ties. He also jokingly proposed that Kentucky bourbon replace Scotch whisky in trade deals with India. The bourbon will go well with Indian spicy cuisine, he chuckled. 

Congressman Sanford Bishop of Georgia’s second district highlighted the influence of India’s struggle for independence on the US Civil Rights Movement and the personal and economic ties between Georgia and India. He mentioned his work with the Consulate General of India in Atlanta and his meetings with Prime Minister Modi to strengthen defense and cultural ties.

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28), a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, addressed both the contributions and challenges facing the Indian American community. She called attention to visa delays and the administration’s restrictions on international students, while reaffirming her advocacy for expanded educational opportunities and visa cap reforms.

Congressman Robert P. Bresnahan (PA-8), a freshman lawmaker, discussed his work on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and his interest in emerging technologies. He highlighted collaborations with Indian entrepreneurs in agriculture and expressed support for ongoing innovation and U.S.-India relations.

Congressman Randy Fine (FL-6), the first Republican Jewish member elected from his district, shared his personal connection to India and emphasized shared values between Indian and Jewish communities. He advocated for legal immigration reforms and reiterated his support for strong U.S.-India ties.

Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) spoke of the vibrant Indian American community in his district and the significance of the bilateral relationship to national, economic, and domestic security. He also pushed for increased visa allocations and comprehensive immigration reform.

Congressman Jonathan Jackson (IL-1) noted the parallels between Indian and American civil rights histories. “You’re doing such a marvelous job,” he said, acknowledging the impact of Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha movement on the American Civil Rights Movement.

Other speakers included Congressman Mark Harris (NC-8), Congressman David Taylor (OH-2), Congressman Nate Moron (TX-1) and several other legislators who echoed their support for the U.S.-India partnership. Narasimha Koppula of FIIDS concluded the event by delivering the vote of thanks.

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