Indian-Americans have gained prominence in the United States, with many holding key positions in the current administration led by President Joe Biden. Neera Tanden, Director of the United States Domestic Policy Council, emphasized the strong relationship between the Indian-American community and the government during an event at India House, the official residence of India’s Ambassador to the US.
Tanden highlighted the substantial growth of Indian-American representation in Washington over the years, noting that Indian Americans now occupy roles throughout the administration, including the Office of Science and Technology Policy and the President’s speechwriting team.
She attributed this progress to the Indian-American community’s expanding sense of contribution to the country, which has evolved beyond traditional fields like medicine and business. Tanden also stressed the importance of democratic participation in strengthening the US-India relationship.
Sethuraman Panchanathan, the Director of the National Science Foundation, emphasized the role of science and technology in supporting robust democracies, underscoring the significance of innovation for both the US and India’s development.
Nisha Desai Biswal, Deputy CEO of the US International Development Finance Corporation, highlighted the multifaceted nature of the India-US relationship, emphasizing its people-to-people, business-to-business, academic, and scientific dimensions. She emphasized the active role of the Indian-American diaspora in building and sustaining this relationship.
The Development Finance Corporation is actively engaged in financing critical projects in India, including infrastructure, energy, health, and food security. Their focus includes diversifying solar supply chains and advancing global vaccine manufacturing.
US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Hallegere Murthy emphasized that the partnership between India and the United States is poised to become a defining one in the 21st century. He highlighted collaboration on health, pandemic preparedness, addressing infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and mental health as crucial aspects of this partnership.
Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, stressed the importance of reflecting on core values such as truth, non-violence (ahimsa), compassion, and kindness, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi.
