Vijay Chauthaiwale, Head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasized the United States’ immense potential for “innovation and entrepreneurship” and noted that India is complementing this strength by contributing world-class talent, which is now visible across major American corporations.

Speaking on June 14, 2025, at the India Day celebrations hosted by the Indian American Diaspora Association (IADA) at the SV Lotus Temple in Fairfax, Virginia, Chauthaiwale addressed the topic of the “U.S.-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” He recalled how Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly referred to Indian Americans as “official ambassadors” of India.

Among several areas, Chauthaiwale highlighted India’s remarkable strides in building Digital Public Infrastructure over the past decade under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He explained how this technology is being shared with developing countries, particularly in the Global South, earning India recognition as a “Vishwamitra” – a friend of the world – for its commitment to global brotherhood and cooperation.

Praising the “dedication and commitment” of the Indian diaspora in strengthening the U.S.-India partnership, he remarked, “Every time I come to U.S. and meet the Indian American community, I find the new energy and new reasons to celebrate the Indian American friendship.” He also acknowledged the significant progress and prosperity the Indian American community has achieved.

Reflecting on the community’s long history in the U.S., Chairman of Sikhs of America, USA, Jesse Singh, noted that Indian migration dates back over 120 years, with early Sikh farmers settling in California’s Central Valley. Despite facing discrimination and exclusionary immigration laws in 1914 and 1924, they persevered. 

He also highlighted the impact of the 1965 Immigration Act, which allowed Indian professionals such as engineers, doctors, and scientists to immigrate and build a diaspora that, in his words, “has no parallel.” He also credited the diaspora for playing a key role in facilitating the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement.

Calling for unity, Singh cautioned against divisive narratives on social media and addressed misconceptions about the Sikh community’s patriotism. “I’m here to assure you that every Sikh stands with India, and we have to stay united,” he affirmed.

Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh expressed satisfaction with younger generations for preserving Indian culture and heritage. He commended IADA for its efforts in empowering the second generation and supporting Indian American political candidates.

Chair of the Virginia Asian Advisory Board and a host of the event, Srilekha Palle, led a moment of silence in remembrance of two recent tragedies: the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, and an Air India crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, which resulted in more than 290 deaths.

Echoing her sentiments, Loudoun County Delegate JJ Singh offered condolences but reminded attendees that the gathering was a celebration of U.S.-India partnership. He noted the increasing presence of Indian American CEOs in top American companies and spoke about the convergence of Bollywood and Hollywood, calling the two film industries “somewhat indistinguishable” today.

Singh also praised Virginia Congressman Suhas Subramanyam and State Senator Kannan Srinivasan, both from Loudoun County, as impactful leaders and personal inspirations. He referre to Srinivasan as “one of the smartest, and most hardest working people we have in the state legislature.” 

Singh further mentioned that he takes pride in his Indian heritage and reflected on his parents’ immigration journey in 1970, underscoring the values they instilled in him: hard work, service, and faith.

Virginia’s Assistant Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Louis Lopez, acknowledged the significant contributions of Indian Americans to the state’s civil society, education, industry, and culture. 

He credited the diaspora with helping drive the Commonwealth’s ongoing economic success, describing them as entrepreneurs, academics, and leaders across sectors who have made Virginia a better place to call home.

Will Archer, Campaign Manager for Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears, who is running for Governor, praised Prime Minister Modi’s reference to “AI” as “American Indian.” 

“I love the commitment to the American Indian partnership,” he said, noting Virginia’s top ranking for business and highlighting Sears’ commitment to supporting Indian American businesses of all sizes. He added that the administration is focused on continuing the policies championed by Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Archer also revealed that Srilekha Palle has been working with the Youngkin administration to coordinate a trade delegation to India.

Michael Sobolik, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, issued a warning about the ongoing geopolitical struggle. “We are in a new Cold War we did not seek, but there will be a winner and there will be a loser,” he said, referring to rising tensions with China. 

While acknowledging America’s innovation and military strength, Sobolik stressed that the United States cannot face these challenges alone. “The U.S. needs friends like India, South Korea, Japan,” he said, noting that economic fortitude and cooperation are essential to successfully counter China’s ambitions.

Sobolik also commended Prime Minister Modi for making bold policy decisions, including the banning of nearly 40 Chinese apps, such as TikTok, to protect India’s national security and sovereignty from external influence.

The event also featured remarks by Sunny Reddy, an at-large member of the Wayne State University Board of Governors, Jag Mohan, Minister (Community Affairs) at the Embassy of India, and Nissim Reuben of the American Jewish Committee. Several cultural performances were also presented as part of the celebration.

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