Nearly 200 Indian American delegates from 25 states will convene on Capitol Hill to engage with lawmakers and Congressional staff, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the US-India partnership, promoting immigration reform, and strengthening Indo-Pacific security. Organized by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), the delegates will participate in the fourth annual Capitol Hill Day, meeting with over 125 elected offices to address various issues such as trade, security cooperation, and the economic contributions of Indian Americans.
“This is a moment to translate influence into policy impact,” stated Khanderao Kand, FIIDS Chief of Policy and Strategy, highlighting the diverse contributions of Indian Americans across various sectors like technology, academia, healthcare, and small businesses. The advocacy efforts will focus on key policy areas including Indo-Pacific trade and security, the US-India strategic partnership, immigration reform, Indian American concerns, and ensuring the security of critical minerals supply chains.
The agenda of the delegates reflects the increasing influence of Indian Americans in public life and broader concerns regarding US competitiveness, national security, and democratic resilience. Following the advocacy meetings, the US-India Partnership Summit will convene, bringing together diplomats, elected officials, and policy leaders to discuss future bilateral cooperation. Notable speakers at the summit include Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bethany Morrison and Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Mangya Khampa, among others, emphasizing the importance of strengthening US-India ties.
FIIDS’ policy platform underscores the significance of Indo-Pacific resilience, enhanced defense and technology cooperation between the US and India, recognition of Indian American contributions, reforms in high-skilled immigration programs, and the development of a strategic plan for securing critical minerals supply chains. The organization highlights the growing importance of these priorities for America’s economic strength and strategic competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
This year’s Capitol Hill Day marks a significant increase in participation, with nearly 200 delegates expected to attend, making it the largest gathering to date, surpassing previous years’ attendance numbers.
