Jaipur– U.S. Vice President James David (JD) Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance and their three children, is currently visiting Jaipur, immersing himself in the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
After arriving in New Delhi on Monday, where he held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visited the Akshardham Temple, Vice President Vance and his family traveled to Jaipur, reaching the city late that evening. The family is staying at the historic Rambagh Palace.
On Tuesday morning, the Vances began their exploration of Jaipur’s iconic landmarks with a visit to the majestic Amer Fort. For security reasons, the fort was closed to tourists, and the area was cleared in advance of the visit.
The Vice President and his family traveled to the fort in an open jeep from Hathi Stand, taking in views of the fort’s grand outer architecture, Mavtha Sarovar (lake), and Kesar Kyari Bagh (saffron garden) along the way.
Upon arriving at Jaleb Chowk, the family was ceremonially welcomed by two elephants, Pushpa and Chanda, adorned in traditional Rajasthani jewelry and attire. Pushpa offered blessings to the Vice President, while Chanda honored him with a floral garland. According to mahout Ballu Khan, the elephants wore ornaments over 350 years old, including kantha (necklaces) and payal (anklets), as part of the grand welcome.
The festivities continued with performances by Rajasthani folk artists, showcasing the vibrant cultural traditions of the region. Following the welcome ceremony, a guide escorted the Vance family on a detailed tour of the fort, offering insights into its history and architecture.
Later in the day, Vice President Vance is scheduled to visit Panna Meena Kund, a historic stepwell, and the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, known for preserving the region’s textile heritage.
After the Amer Fort tour, the family will return to Rambagh Palace for a brief rest before Vice President Vance heads to the Rajasthan International Center (RIC) at 2:45 p.m., where he will address the U.S. Business Summit. The summit will focus on trade, investment, and strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and the United States.
Later in the evening, Vance is set to meet with Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, and Industry Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore at Rambagh Palace. Discussions will center on ongoing Indo-U.S. collaborative programs and economic partnerships.
Before lunch, Vance will receive a briefing on Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks, including the Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and the city’s signature pink-hued architecture. A traditional Rajasthani lunch will be served to the Vice President and his family, offering a taste of the region’s renowned cuisine.
Security has been significantly heightened throughout Jaipur, especially around Amer Fort, with U.S. security agencies, local police, and intelligence teams working together to ensure the safety of the Vice President and his family.
According to officials, on April 23, Vance will travel to Agra from Jaipur Airport at 9 a.m., where he will spend approximately three hours touring the Taj Mahal complex before returning to Jaipur in the afternoon. Upon his return, he is scheduled to visit the City Palace, where Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari will extend a warm welcome.
Vice President Vance is expected to conclude his visit and depart for the United States on the morning of April 24. (Source: IANS)
