Indian Americans Bring Policy Priorities to Capitol Hill
Washington — Nearly 200 Indian American delegates from 25 states are expected to meet with lawmakers and congressional staff Tuesday as part of an advocacy campaign focused on strengthening U.S.-India relations, reforming immigration policies and improving Indo-Pacific security.
Organized by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies, the fourth annual Capitol Hill Day will include meetings with more than 125 congressional offices.
Delegates plan to discuss trade and security cooperation with India, critical-mineral supply chains and the contributions of Indian Americans to the U.S. economy.
“This is a moment to translate influence into policy impact,” said Khanderao Kand, FIIDS chief of policy and strategy.
“Indian Americans contribute across technology, research, academia, hospitality, health care, small business, and agriculture, and our community is engaged in ensuring that Congress understands the issues that matter most to America’s future,” he added.
The organization said its advocacy will center on five policy areas: Indo-Pacific trade and security, the U.S.-India strategic partnership, Indian American contributions and concerns, immigration reform supporting U.S. innovation, and critical-mineral supply-chain security.
FIIDS said the agenda reflects the Indian American community’s growing role in public life as well as broader concerns about U.S. competitiveness, national security and democratic resilience.
The meetings will be followed by the U.S.-India Partnership Summit, which is expected to bring together diplomats, elected officials and policy leaders to discuss the future of bilateral cooperation.
Scheduled speakers include Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bethany Morrison, Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Mangya Khampa and other officials and leaders working to strengthen U.S.-India ties.
FIIDS is calling for stronger defense and technology cooperation between Washington and New Delhi, greater Indo-Pacific resilience, recognition of Indian American contributions, reforms to high-skilled immigration programs and a long-term strategy to secure critical-mineral supply chains.
Participation in Capitol Hill Day has risen steadily, from nearly 70 delegates in 2023 to about 132 in 2024 and approximately 145 in 2025. This year’s gathering is expected to be the largest yet. (Source: IANS)
