The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans serves as a bipartisan coalition dedicated to fostering stronger relations between Washington and New Delhi
In a significant development reflecting the growing importance of the India-United States relationship, Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna and Republican Representative Rich McCormick have been appointed as co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans in the US House of Representatives. The announcement was made through an official release, highlighting the bipartisan commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties between the two nations.
Additionally, Representatives Andy Barr and Marc Veasey will continue serving as vice co-chairs, while Congressman Brad Sherman, the former chair of the caucus, will assume the role of chair emeritus. The leadership structure reflects a balanced bipartisan effort to enhance engagement between US policymakers and the Indian American community.
Strengthening US-India Ties
Congressman Ro Khanna emphasized the importance of a robust partnership with India for both economic prosperity and national security.
“A strong partnership with India is critical for our economy and national security. It is an honor to continue serving as co-chair of the India Caucus and to welcome Rep. Rich McCormick as the caucus’s new co-chair. Rep. McCormick has supported policies to strengthen the US-India relationship, and I look forward to working with him. I am grateful to Reps. Veasey and Barr for their continued leadership in the role of vice co-chairs,” Khanna stated.
The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans serves as a bipartisan coalition dedicated to fostering stronger relations between Washington and New Delhi. The caucus plays a vital role in advocating for policies that benefit both nations while also focusing on the concerns of the Indian American diaspora.
During the previous Congress, the caucus grew to a record membership of 145, with 35 new members joining under the leadership of Khanna and former co-chair Michael Waltz. This expansion underscores the increasing recognition of India’s strategic importance and the growing influence of Indian Americans in US politics and business sectors.
Commitment to the Indian American Community
Representative Rich McCormick, who represents Georgia’s 7th Congressional District, expressed his enthusiasm for his new role as co-chair and reiterated his commitment to strengthening US-India ties.
“I have the great privilege of serving many hard-working Indian Americans in my district and will continue to strengthen our relationship with India. The dedication, innovation, and contributions of this diaspora enrich our community and strengthen the bonds between our two nations. Together, let’s continue to champion the values of opportunity and collaboration that define both America and India,” McCormick said.
McCormick’s district includes a significant Indian American population, many of whom are engaged in technology, medicine, and entrepreneurship. His appointment as co-chair signals an intent to further integrate Indian Americans into the broader economic and policy discussions in Washington.
Shared Values and Strategic Interests
Congressman Andy Barr highlighted the foundation of the US-India partnership, which is built on shared democratic values, economic freedom, and security cooperation.
“Strengthening this relationship is critical to advancing our mutual interests in trade, technology, and defense. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to further deepen the ties between our two great nations and to support the vibrant Indian American community that contributes so much to our country,” Barr noted.
India and the United States have enjoyed a steady strengthening of their relationship in recent years, particularly in areas such as defense cooperation, technology transfer, and trade partnerships. The caucus aims to further bolster these aspects by advocating policies that benefit both nations and their citizens.
Marc Veasey, who represents Texas’ 33rd Congressional District, also voiced his support for expanding US-India ties and underscored the contributions of the Indian American community.
“As the proud representative of Texas’ 33rd district, home to a vibrant and growing community of Indian and Indian American families, I am honored to continue serving as vice co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India. I look forward to furthering the strong ties between the United States and India. The Indian American diaspora has made invaluable contributions to our nation, and I remain committed to fostering deeper partnerships that enhance both our economies and national security. Together, with our Chair, Rep. Ro Khanna, I know we will continue to build a strong relationship based on shared values,” Veasey said.
Expanding Engagement
The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans plays an essential role in advocating for policies that support trade, security, and diplomatic collaboration between the two countries. India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, making it a vital partner for the United States in global trade and investment.
Beyond economic collaboration, the caucus also focuses on security partnerships, including defense agreements and counterterrorism efforts. Both nations have signed multiple agreements to strengthen their strategic and military cooperation, reinforcing their position as key allies in the Indo-Pacific region.
Furthermore, the caucus is expected to engage in discussions related to visa policies, education partnerships, and cultural exchanges that impact Indian Americans and professionals working in the United States. The Indian American community has played a significant role in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, making it a crucial part of the broader US economy.
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