Modi G7 Group Photo: Indian Leader Joins Trump, Macron in Evian
The Modi G7 group photo in Evian placed India’s prime minister beside U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron during the summit’s official leaders’ portrait. Narendra Modi’s front-row position on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, became one of the most visible moments of India’s participation in the G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains, France. Why the Modi G7 Group Photo in Evian Drew Attention India is not a
Modi G7 Group Photo: Indian Leader Joins Trump, Macron in Evian
The Modi G7 group photo in Evian placed India’s prime minister beside U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron during the summit’s official leaders’ portrait. Narendra Modi’s front-row position on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, became one of the most visible moments of India’s participation in the G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains, France. Why the Modi G7 Group Photo in Evian Drew Attention India is not a
Modi-Trump G7 Meeting in Evian Puts India-US Trade in Focus
ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS, France — The Modi-Trump G7 meeting in Evian brought India-U.S. trade relations back into focus on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump exchanged a handshake and brief remarks at the summit venue in France, marking their first face-to-face interaction in about 16 months. Modi-Trump G7 Meeting in Evian Comes Before Trade Discussions Modi approached his seat as Trump turned
Modi-Trump G7 Meeting in Evian Puts India-US Trade in Focus
ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS, France — The Modi-Trump G7 meeting in Evian brought India-U.S. trade relations back into focus on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump exchanged a handshake and brief remarks at the summit venue in France, marking their first face-to-face interaction in about 16 months. Modi-Trump G7 Meeting in Evian Comes Before Trade Discussions Modi approached his seat as Trump turned
Modi-Trump G7 Meeting 2026: Trade, Hormuz Talks in Focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump are expected to meet during the 2026 G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, with trade likely to lead their bilateral agenda and Strait of Hormuz security shaping wider summit discussions. The Modi-Trump G7 meeting 2026 comes as Washington and New Delhi continue negotiations over a possible trade agreement. A senior U.S. administration official said the leaders would review the progress of those talks, although a final agr
Modi-Trump G7 Meeting 2026: Trade, Hormuz Talks in Focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump are expected to meet during the 2026 G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, with trade likely to lead their bilateral agenda and Strait of Hormuz security shaping wider summit discussions. The Modi-Trump G7 meeting 2026 comes as Washington and New Delhi continue negotiations over a possible trade agreement. A senior U.S. administration official said the leaders would review the progress of those talks, although a final agr
India-US relations: Jaishankar stresses partnership with dignity
India-US relations have become stronger and more important, but External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has made it clear that the partnership is not without challenges. His message is simple: India and America may have differences on trade, energy, diplomacy and global issues, but both countries must handle them maturely and keep the relationship moving forward. He sees the relationship as a serious strategic partnership based on shared interests, not as a one-sided friendship or dependence.
India-US relations: Jaishankar stresses partnership with dignity
India-US relations have become stronger and more important, but External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has made it clear that the partnership is not without challenges. His message is simple: India and America may have differences on trade, energy, diplomacy and global issues, but both countries must handle them maturely and keep the relationship moving forward. He sees the relationship as a serious strategic partnership based on shared interests, not as a one-sided friendship or dependence.
Trump post on India sparks diplomatic pushback from US and India
A controversial Trump post on India triggered diplomatic reactions from US and Indian officials, prompting efforts to reaffirm strong bilateral ties and address global political concerns. Trump post on India sparks diplomatic pushback from US and India — Hours after Donald Trump shared a social media post containing derogatory language about India, US officials moved sw
Trump post on India sparks diplomatic pushback from US and India
A controversial Trump post on India triggered diplomatic reactions from US and Indian officials, prompting efforts to reaffirm strong bilateral ties and address global political concerns. Trump post on India sparks diplomatic pushback from US and India — Hours after Donald Trump shared a social media post containing derogatory language about India, US officials moved sw
Pahalgam Victims Honored at Capitol Hill Exhibition on Terror Impact
One year after the deadly attack in Pahalgam, India has taken its message on terrorism to a global stage through an exhibition at Capitol Hill in Washington, organized by the Embassy of India, Washington, D.C.. The event, titled “The Human Cost of Terrorism,” was held to commemorate the victims and highlight the lasting impact of violence on civilians. The attack, which took place on Ap
Pahalgam Victims Honored at Capitol Hill Exhibition on Terror Impact
One year after the deadly attack in Pahalgam, India has taken its message on terrorism to a global stage through an exhibition at Capitol Hill in Washington, organized by the Embassy of India, Washington, D.C.. The event, titled “The Human Cost of Terrorism,” was held to commemorate the victims and highlight the lasting impact of violence on civilians. The attack, which took place on Ap
India-US leaders review strategic ties amid Strait of Hormuz concerns
United States President Donald Trump on Thursday said he had a “very good conversation” with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the discussion as constructive and reaffirming strong ties between the two nations. The leaders spoke for approximately 40 minutes, focusing on regional security
India-US leaders review strategic ties amid Strait of Hormuz concerns
United States President Donald Trump on Thursday said he had a “very good conversation” with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the discussion as constructive and reaffirming strong ties between the two nations. The leaders spoke for approximately 40 minutes, focusing on regional security
Jaishankar and Rubio discuss West Asia conflict and energy security concerns
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday held a detailed telephonic conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on the escalating West Asia conflict and its broader implications for global energy security and economic stability. The discussion comes at a critical time when geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region are raising concerns among major economies dependent on stable crude oil supply chains. According to Jaishankar, the conversation add
Jaishankar and Rubio discuss West Asia conflict and energy security concerns
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday held a detailed telephonic conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on the escalating West Asia conflict and its broader implications for global energy security and economic stability. The discussion comes at a critical time when geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region are raising concerns among major economies dependent on stable crude oil supply chains. According to Jaishankar, the conversation add
India studying impact after US court strikes down Trump tariffs
The Government of India on Saturday said it is closely examining recent developments in the United States after the US Supreme Court struck down former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs. The Commerce Ministry stated that officials are assessing the implications of both the court ruling and subsequent announcements made by the US administration. In its first formal reaction, the ministry confirmed it had taken note of the Supreme Court’s judgment delivered on Frida
India studying impact after US court strikes down Trump tariffs
The Government of India on Saturday said it is closely examining recent developments in the United States after the US Supreme Court struck down former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs. The Commerce Ministry stated that officials are assessing the implications of both the court ruling and subsequent announcements made by the US administration. In its first formal reaction, the ministry confirmed it had taken note of the Supreme Court’s judgment delivered on Frida
Top Court Limits Trump Tariff Powers Amid India-Russia Oil Dispute
The United States Supreme Court on Friday struck down a series of broad tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, ruling that the administration had exceeded its authority under federal law. In a closely watched 6–3 decision, the court determined that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorize the president to unilaterally impose sweeping duties on foreign imports, a finding that could have significant implications for future trade policy and executive power. The ruling addressed the legal limits of presidential authority under the IEEPA, a statute historically used to regulate economic activity during national emergencies. Writing for the majority, the court concluded that the law does not grant the executive branch the expansive tariff powers claimed by the administration. The decision effectively invalidates the contested measures and reinforces congressional oversight over major trade actions. In his dissent, Justice Brett Kavanaugh pointed to the administration’s use of tariffs as a tool of foreign policy leverage, including duties imposed on India over its purchases of Russian oil. He argued that the tariffs were part of sensitive international negotiations and should be viewed within the broader context of the president’s conduct of foreign affairs. Kavanaugh noted that the government had maintained the tariffs helped secure trade concessions from major partners such as China, the United Kingdom and Japan. According to the administration’s position, the measures were intended to open foreign markets to American businesses and support trade agreements valued in the trillions of dollars. The dissent specifically referenced the August 2025 decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on India for what the administration described as direct or indirect imports of Russian Federation oil. At the time, the White House framed the move as part of broader efforts tied to geopolitical negotiations and energy security concerns. The tariffs included a reciprocal component initially set at 25 percent and later reduced to 18 percent. Kavanaugh further observed that the administration subsequently eased the India-specific penalties in February 2026 after the government reported that New Delhi had committed to halting purchases of Russian oil and to increasing imports of American energy products. He argued that such developments demonstrated the traditional diplomatic use of tariffs as leverage in complex international negotiations. Despite these arguments, the majority held that statutory limits must guide the exercise of executive power, even in matters touching on foreign affairs and national security. The court emphasized that significant economic measures with wide domestic consequences require clear authorization from Congress. The decision marks a notable judicial check on presidential trade authority and is likely to influence how future administrations deploy tariffs in pursuit of foreign policy objectives. Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces the principle that emergency economic powers cannot be broadly interpreted to reshape global trade relationships without explicit legislative backing. While the immediate policy effects remain to be fully assessed, the judgment underscores ongoing tensions between the executive branch’s flexibility in foreign affairs and the constitutional role of Congress in regulating commerce. The case is expected to shape debates over trade strategy, energy diplomacy and the scope of presidential economic powers in the years ahead.
Top Court Limits Trump Tariff Powers Amid India-Russia Oil Dispute
The United States Supreme Court on Friday struck down a series of broad tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, ruling that the administration had exceeded its authority under federal law. In a closely watched 6–3 decision, the court determined that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorize the president to unilaterally impose sweeping duties on foreign imports, a finding that could have significant implications for future trade policy and executive power. The ruling addressed the legal limits of presidential authority under the IEEPA, a statute historically used to regulate economic activity during national emergencies. Writing for the majority, the court concluded that the law does not grant the executive branch the expansive tariff powers claimed by the administration. The decision effectively invalidates the contested measures and reinforces congressional oversight over major trade actions. In his dissent, Justice Brett Kavanaugh pointed to the administration’s use of tariffs as a tool of foreign policy leverage, including duties imposed on India over its purchases of Russian oil. He argued that the tariffs were part of sensitive international negotiations and should be viewed within the broader context of the president’s conduct of foreign affairs. Kavanaugh noted that the government had maintained the tariffs helped secure trade concessions from major partners such as China, the United Kingdom and Japan. According to the administration’s position, the measures were intended to open foreign markets to American businesses and support trade agreements valued in the trillions of dollars. The dissent specifically referenced the August 2025 decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on India for what the administration described as direct or indirect imports of Russian Federation oil. At the time, the White House framed the move as part of broader efforts tied to geopolitical negotiations and energy security concerns. The tariffs included a reciprocal component initially set at 25 percent and later reduced to 18 percent. Kavanaugh further observed that the administration subsequently eased the India-specific penalties in February 2026 after the government reported that New Delhi had committed to halting purchases of Russian oil and to increasing imports of American energy products. He argued that such developments demonstrated the traditional diplomatic use of tariffs as leverage in complex international negotiations. Despite these arguments, the majority held that statutory limits must guide the exercise of executive power, even in matters touching on foreign affairs and national security. The court emphasized that significant economic measures with wide domestic consequences require clear authorization from Congress. The decision marks a notable judicial check on presidential trade authority and is likely to influence how future administrations deploy tariffs in pursuit of foreign policy objectives. Legal analysts say the ruling reinforces the principle that emergency economic powers cannot be broadly interpreted to reshape global trade relationships without explicit legislative backing. While the immediate policy effects remain to be fully assessed, the judgment underscores ongoing tensions between the executive branch’s flexibility in foreign affairs and the constitutional role of Congress in regulating commerce. The case is expected to shape debates over trade strategy, energy diplomacy and the scope of presidential economic powers in the years ahead.
India–US trade deal: Doval warns Washington against pressure tactics
India’s national security advisor Ajit Doval conveyed a firm message to senior United States officials months before the announcement of a new trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring that India would not yield to public pressure or coercive tactics during negotiations. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Doval made it clear during meetings in Washington that India was prepared to wait out the current US administration if necessary rather than accept terms it viewed as unfavorable. The visit took place in early September, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an active diplomatic phase for New Delhi across major global powers. During his interaction with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Doval reportedly emphasized that while India remained committed to reviving trade talks, it expected a more measured tone from Washington and less public criticism that could complicate bilateral ties. Officials said Doval sought to put recent acrimony behind the two countries and expressed interest in restarting substantive discussions on a trade deal that has been under negotiation for several years. At the same time, he warned that India would not be “bullied” by President Donald Trump or senior members of his team, stressing that any agreement must respect India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy. The remarks came months before Trump publicly announced progress on a trade deal with India following a phone call with Modi on February 2. That announcement marked a fresh attempt by both sides to rebuild momentum in economic cooperation after a period marked by tariff disputes and disagreements over market access. Diplomatic observers note that India’s approach reflects a broader foreign policy strategy that balances engagement with firmness. By signaling willingness to continue talks while resisting overt pressure, New Delhi appears intent on safeguarding domestic priorities while preserving its long-term partnership with Washington. The United States remains one of India’s largest trading partners, and both governments view closer economic integration as central to strengthening strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The Washington meeting is seen as part of quiet backchannel diplomacy aimed at lowering tensions and creating space for practical negotiations. With both sides now indicating readiness to resume dialogue, officials say the focus will be on rebuilding trust and advancing a mutually beneficial trade framework that supports growth and stability in the relationship.
India–US trade deal: Doval warns Washington against pressure tactics
India’s national security advisor Ajit Doval conveyed a firm message to senior United States officials months before the announcement of a new trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring that India would not yield to public pressure or coercive tactics during negotiations. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Doval made it clear during meetings in Washington that India was prepared to wait out the current US administration if necessary rather than accept terms it viewed as unfavorable. The visit took place in early September, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an active diplomatic phase for New Delhi across major global powers. During his interaction with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Doval reportedly emphasized that while India remained committed to reviving trade talks, it expected a more measured tone from Washington and less public criticism that could complicate bilateral ties. Officials said Doval sought to put recent acrimony behind the two countries and expressed interest in restarting substantive discussions on a trade deal that has been under negotiation for several years. At the same time, he warned that India would not be “bullied” by President Donald Trump or senior members of his team, stressing that any agreement must respect India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy. The remarks came months before Trump publicly announced progress on a trade deal with India following a phone call with Modi on February 2. That announcement marked a fresh attempt by both sides to rebuild momentum in economic cooperation after a period marked by tariff disputes and disagreements over market access. Diplomatic observers note that India’s approach reflects a broader foreign policy strategy that balances engagement with firmness. By signaling willingness to continue talks while resisting overt pressure, New Delhi appears intent on safeguarding domestic priorities while preserving its long-term partnership with Washington. The United States remains one of India’s largest trading partners, and both governments view closer economic integration as central to strengthening strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The Washington meeting is seen as part of quiet backchannel diplomacy aimed at lowering tensions and creating space for practical negotiations. With both sides now indicating readiness to resume dialogue, officials say the focus will be on rebuilding trust and advancing a mutually beneficial trade framework that supports growth and stability in the relationship.
Rubio highlights India-US cooperation on Republic Day amid trade deal uncertainty
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended greetings to India on the occasion of its Republic Day, underscoring the importance of the bilateral partnership and highlighting areas of close cooperation between the two countries. In his message, Rubio emphasized that sustained engagement across strategic sectors continues to yield tangible outcomes for both nations and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Rubio described the relationship as a historic bond strengthened by collab
Rubio highlights India-US cooperation on Republic Day amid trade deal uncertainty
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended greetings to India on the occasion of its Republic Day, underscoring the importance of the bilateral partnership and highlighting areas of close cooperation between the two countries. In his message, Rubio emphasized that sustained engagement across strategic sectors continues to yield tangible outcomes for both nations and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Rubio described the relationship as a historic bond strengthened by collab
H-1B visa stamping delays push India appointments to 2027, raising travel concerns
The prolonged delay in H-1B visa stamping that began in December has continued into the new year, with no signs of immediate relief for thousands of skilled workers dependent on timely consular processing. No new interview slots have been opened at US consulates in India, and applicants are now receiving notifications that their previously scheduled appointments are being deferred as far as 2027, intensifying anxiety among visa holders and employers alike. Immigration attorneys and
H-1B visa stamping delays push India appointments to 2027, raising travel concerns
The prolonged delay in H-1B visa stamping that began in December has continued into the new year, with no signs of immediate relief for thousands of skilled workers dependent on timely consular processing. No new interview slots have been opened at US consulates in India, and applicants are now receiving notifications that their previously scheduled appointments are being deferred as far as 2027, intensifying anxiety among visa holders and employers alike. Immigration attorneys and
US sanctions waiver keeps India’s Chabahar Port role secure till April 2026
India has confirmed that it is actively engaging with the United States to ensure the continuity of its operations at Iran’s Chabahar Port under an existing sanctions waiver that remains valid until April 26, 2026. The discussions come amid the strategic significance New Delhi attaches to the port as a key gateway for regional connectivity, trade, and humanitarian assistance. Speaking on the matter,
US sanctions waiver keeps India’s Chabahar Port role secure till April 2026
India has confirmed that it is actively engaging with the United States to ensure the continuity of its operations at Iran’s Chabahar Port under an existing sanctions waiver that remains valid until April 26, 2026. The discussions come amid the strategic significance New Delhi attaches to the port as a key gateway for regional connectivity, trade, and humanitarian assistance. Speaking on the matter,
India and US review strategic cooperation in Jaishankar–Rubio conversation
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said he held a constructive and wide-ranging discussion with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on key areas of bilateral and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The conversation reflected the ongoing engagement between New Delhi and Washington as both sides continue to strengthen ties across multiple sectors of mutual interest. In a message shared on social media platform X, Jaishankar described the interaction as a “good conversation,” noting that the talks covered important subjects including trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, defence collaboration and energy security. These areas have emerged as central pillars of the evolving India-US partnership, particularly in the context of shifting global economic and geopolitical dynamics. The discussion on trade and economic engagement comes at a time when both countries are exploring ways to deepen supply chain resilience and expand market access. Cooperation on critical minerals has gained added importance amid global efforts to secure resources essential for advanced manufacturing, clean energy technologies and strategic industries. Nuclear cooperation and defence ties were also part of the agenda, underscoring the growing convergence in security interests and technological collaboration. Energy cooperation featured prominently in the talks, reflecting shared priorities related to energy security, sustainability and long-term growth. India and the United States have increasingly worked together on conventional and clean energy initiatives, including efforts to address climate challenges while meeting rising energy demands. Jaishankar said both sides agreed to remain in close touch on these and other issues, signalling continuity in diplomatic engagement and policy coordination. The exchange highlights the emphasis placed by both governments on maintaining regular dialogue to address global challenges, regional stability and economic opportunities. The conversation forms part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to reinforce the strategic partnership between India and the United States, which continues to expand across political, economic and security domains.
India and US review strategic cooperation in Jaishankar–Rubio conversation
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said he held a constructive and wide-ranging discussion with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on key areas of bilateral and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The conversation reflected the ongoing engagement between New Delhi and Washington as both sides continue to strengthen ties across multiple sectors of mutual interest. In a message shared on social media platform X, Jaishankar described the interaction as a “good conversation,” noting that the talks covered important subjects including trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, defence collaboration and energy security. These areas have emerged as central pillars of the evolving India-US partnership, particularly in the context of shifting global economic and geopolitical dynamics. The discussion on trade and economic engagement comes at a time when both countries are exploring ways to deepen supply chain resilience and expand market access. Cooperation on critical minerals has gained added importance amid global efforts to secure resources essential for advanced manufacturing, clean energy technologies and strategic industries. Nuclear cooperation and defence ties were also part of the agenda, underscoring the growing convergence in security interests and technological collaboration. Energy cooperation featured prominently in the talks, reflecting shared priorities related to energy security, sustainability and long-term growth. India and the United States have increasingly worked together on conventional and clean energy initiatives, including efforts to address climate challenges while meeting rising energy demands. Jaishankar said both sides agreed to remain in close touch on these and other issues, signalling continuity in diplomatic engagement and policy coordination. The exchange highlights the emphasis placed by both governments on maintaining regular dialogue to address global challenges, regional stability and economic opportunities. The conversation forms part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to reinforce the strategic partnership between India and the United States, which continues to expand across political, economic and security domains.
Sergio Gor assumes charge as US ambassador to India, outlines trade talks and Pax Silica invite
Sergio Gor formally assumed charge as the United States Ambassador to India on Monday, marking the beginning of a new diplomatic chapter between the two countries. Speaking shortly after taking office, Gor described the relationship between India and the United States as the most consequential global partnership of the century, underlining its growing importance across economic, strategic, and technological domains. He confirmed that fresh trade negotiations between the two sides are schedule
Sergio Gor assumes charge as US ambassador to India, outlines trade talks and Pax Silica invite
Sergio Gor formally assumed charge as the United States Ambassador to India on Monday, marking the beginning of a new diplomatic chapter between the two countries. Speaking shortly after taking office, Gor described the relationship between India and the United States as the most consequential global partnership of the century, underlining its growing importance across economic, strategic, and technological domains. He confirmed that fresh trade negotiations between the two sides are schedule
India most essential partner for US as trade talks resume, says ambassador-designate
The United States considers India its most essential international partner, US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor said on Monday, as Washington and New Delhi prepare to restart a new round of trade negotiations beginning Tuesday, January 12. Speaking at the US Embassy in New Delhi, Gor underlined the depth of the bilateral relationship and expressed confidence that both sides could overcome existing challenges to advance cooperation across multiple sectors. Gor, who also serves as Spec
India most essential partner for US as trade talks resume, says ambassador-designate
The United States considers India its most essential international partner, US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor said on Monday, as Washington and New Delhi prepare to restart a new round of trade negotiations beginning Tuesday, January 12. Speaking at the US Embassy in New Delhi, Gor underlined the depth of the bilateral relationship and expressed confidence that both sides could overcome existing challenges to advance cooperation across multiple sectors. Gor, who also serves as Spec
India expresses concern over Minneapolis shooting involving US immigration agents
India on Friday said it was concerned about the fatal shooting in Minneapolis, citing the presence of a large Indian community in the United States and the broader implications of the incident. The reaction came amid growing scrutiny of immigration enforcement practices in the US following the death of a woman during a federal operation. Responding to questions on the incident, the Ministry of External Affairs said India was closely following developments related to the Minneapolis
India expresses concern over Minneapolis shooting involving US immigration agents
India on Friday said it was concerned about the fatal shooting in Minneapolis, citing the presence of a large Indian community in the United States and the broader implications of the incident. The reaction came amid growing scrutiny of immigration enforcement practices in the US following the death of a woman during a federal operation. Responding to questions on the incident, the Ministry of External Affairs said India was closely following developments related to the Minneapolis
US commerce secretary says Modi did not call Trump, trade deal collapsed
The proposed India–US trade deal failed to materialise because Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not personally call US President Donald Trump, according to claims made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Speaking on a podcast, Lutnick said the final step required to close the agreement was direct communication between the two leaders, which did not happen, leading to the collapse of the negotiations. Lutnick stated that the framework of the deal had been completed and was rea
US commerce secretary says Modi did not call Trump, trade deal collapsed
The proposed India–US trade deal failed to materialise because Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not personally call US President Donald Trump, according to claims made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Speaking on a podcast, Lutnick said the final step required to close the agreement was direct communication between the two leaders, which did not happen, leading to the collapse of the negotiations. Lutnick stated that the framework of the deal had been completed and was rea
US welcomes India’s SHANTI Bill 2025, signals boost to civil nuclear cooperation
The United States has welcomed India’s newly enacted legislation on nuclear energy, describing it as a significant move toward strengthening bilateral cooperation in the civil nuclear and energy sectors. The response follows President Draupadi Murmu’s assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, widely known as the SHANTI Bill, 2025, which introduces far-reaching changes to the country’s nuclear governance framework. In a statement shared on social media, the US Embassy in India said it viewed the new law as an important step toward a stronger energy security partnership and enhanced peaceful civil nuclear cooperation. The embassy added that the United States was prepared to engage with India on joint innovation and research and development initiatives across the energy sector, underscoring the strategic importance Washington places on collaboration in advanced and clean energy technologies. The SHANTI Act marks a decisive shift in India’s approach to civil nuclear power by replacing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, a law that had remained largely unchanged for more than six decades. The updated framework seeks to modernize regulatory oversight, expand participation, and align India’s nuclear sector with contemporary global practices, while maintaining safety and security as central priorities. Among the most consequential reforms introduced by the new legislation is the opening of India’s civil nuclear sector to private participation for the first time. Until now, nuclear power generation and related activities were almost exclusively handled by state-owned enterprises. The move is expected to attract fresh investment, encourage innovation, and accelerate capacity building in a sector considered critical to India’s long-term energy security and climate commitments. The Act also grants statutory backing to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, strengthening its authority and independence. In addition, it outlines a structured licensing regime designed to bring clarity and predictability to approvals and compliance. To address disputes more efficiently, the legislation proposes the establishment of a specialized nuclear tribunal with jurisdiction over matters arising from the sector. Under the provisions of the SHANTI Act, licenses may be issued to a wide range of entities, including government departments, public sector bodies, government-controlled corporations, government companies, joint ventures involving such entities, as well as other companies or individuals expressly permitted by the central government through notification. This broader eligibility is intended to create a more inclusive and competitive ecosystem while retaining oversight through regulation. The US response to the legislation must also be seen in the context of the broader India–US civil nuclear relationship, which began nearly two decades ago with the announcement of a landmark cooperation initiative. That agreement ended India’s prolonged nuclear isolation and enabled civilian nuclear engagement despite New Delhi remaining outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, marking a major shift in bilateral relations and US policy. While the agreement reshaped strategic ties, its implementation faced delays over the years due to regulatory and legal complexities. Momentum picked up earlier this year when the US Department of Energy granted regulatory clearance to an American company to design and build nuclear reactors in India, a development widely seen as a breakthrough. With the enactment of the SHANTI Bill, both sides appear poised to build on that progress. The legislation provides a clearer regulatory pathway and signals India’s intent to expand its nuclear energy program, creating new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and technology exchange between the two countries in the years ahead.
US welcomes India’s SHANTI Bill 2025, signals boost to civil nuclear cooperation
The United States has welcomed India’s newly enacted legislation on nuclear energy, describing it as a significant move toward strengthening bilateral cooperation in the civil nuclear and energy sectors. The response follows President Draupadi Murmu’s assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, widely known as the SHANTI Bill, 2025, which introduces far-reaching changes to the country’s nuclear governance framework. In a statement shared on social media, the US Embassy in India said it viewed the new law as an important step toward a stronger energy security partnership and enhanced peaceful civil nuclear cooperation. The embassy added that the United States was prepared to engage with India on joint innovation and research and development initiatives across the energy sector, underscoring the strategic importance Washington places on collaboration in advanced and clean energy technologies. The SHANTI Act marks a decisive shift in India’s approach to civil nuclear power by replacing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, a law that had remained largely unchanged for more than six decades. The updated framework seeks to modernize regulatory oversight, expand participation, and align India’s nuclear sector with contemporary global practices, while maintaining safety and security as central priorities. Among the most consequential reforms introduced by the new legislation is the opening of India’s civil nuclear sector to private participation for the first time. Until now, nuclear power generation and related activities were almost exclusively handled by state-owned enterprises. The move is expected to attract fresh investment, encourage innovation, and accelerate capacity building in a sector considered critical to India’s long-term energy security and climate commitments. The Act also grants statutory backing to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, strengthening its authority and independence. In addition, it outlines a structured licensing regime designed to bring clarity and predictability to approvals and compliance. To address disputes more efficiently, the legislation proposes the establishment of a specialized nuclear tribunal with jurisdiction over matters arising from the sector. Under the provisions of the SHANTI Act, licenses may be issued to a wide range of entities, including government departments, public sector bodies, government-controlled corporations, government companies, joint ventures involving such entities, as well as other companies or individuals expressly permitted by the central government through notification. This broader eligibility is intended to create a more inclusive and competitive ecosystem while retaining oversight through regulation. The US response to the legislation must also be seen in the context of the broader India–US civil nuclear relationship, which began nearly two decades ago with the announcement of a landmark cooperation initiative. That agreement ended India’s prolonged nuclear isolation and enabled civilian nuclear engagement despite New Delhi remaining outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, marking a major shift in bilateral relations and US policy. While the agreement reshaped strategic ties, its implementation faced delays over the years due to regulatory and legal complexities. Momentum picked up earlier this year when the US Department of Energy granted regulatory clearance to an American company to design and build nuclear reactors in India, a development widely seen as a breakthrough. With the enactment of the SHANTI Bill, both sides appear poised to build on that progress. The legislation provides a clearer regulatory pathway and signals India’s intent to expand its nuclear energy program, creating new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and technology exchange between the two countries in the years ahead.









