The India Global Forum (IGF) officially launched its event in the United States on Thursday, with a distinguished group of Indian business leaders taking part in private discussions with incoming administration members and US policymakers. This milestone event comes just before President-elect Donald Trump’s second inauguration and emphasizes the strengthening relationship between the United States and India.
The forum facilitated open and informal dialogue on pressing issues affecting US-India ties, particularly in the realms of geopolitics, security, defense, and economic growth. Key topics covered included President Trump’s populist policies, shifts in US electoral dynamics, and the influential role of the Indian diaspora.
Discussions also delved into the US economic landscape, focusing on areas like digital infrastructure, technology, innovation, and foreign investment, while exploring ways to deepen bilateral collaboration.
Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman of IGF, highlighted the importance of collaboration between democracies in his opening speech: “Democracies work best when democracies work together.” He emphasized that the event aimed to shape synergies between India and the United States as both nations navigate a rapidly changing global environment.
Notable attendees included Jacob Helberg, Designated Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment in the incoming administration, along with prominent voices like Ajit Pai, former Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Pai shared insights from his time under President Trump, particularly regarding implications for big tech, cryptocurrency, and regulations.
The event also featured Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director of ORF America, who discussed US-India relations, India’s strategic priorities, and prospects for enhanced cooperation under Trump’s presidency. Additionally, Scott Tranter from Decision Desk shared data insights on the 2024 elections and key policy trends for the next four years.
The forum concluded with discussions on defense procurement, energy, and global supply chains, with experts outlining how the US and India could further strengthen their bilateral ties.
