MAGA, MIGA, and Viksit Bharat: Strengthening India-U.S. Ties Under Trump 2.0
New Delhi/Washington, D.C. | February 18, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United States has reinforced India’s position as a global power while deepening ties with President Donald Trump’s administration. Amidst Trump’s renewed “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) push, Modi’s “Make India Great Again” (MIGA) vision has found strategic alignment, marking a significant step in India-U.S. relations.
Strategic Optics: Modi-Trump Camaraderie
The visit was marked by a strong public display of camaraderie between Modi and Trump. Over a five-hour engagement, Trump praised Modi as a “special friend” and a “tough negotiator.” Despite Trump’s historically aggressive trade policies, India managed to navigate discussions without major tariff impositions, highlighting the nation’s rising diplomatic clout.
Veteran journalist Will Ripley encapsulated the evolving partnership with the equation: MAGA + MIGA = MEGA, underscoring the strategic convergence between both leaders.
Economic Gains: Trade, Tariffs, and Technology
A key highlight was the commitment to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. Despite Trump’s tariff-heavy policies, India proactively reduced its import duties from 13% to 11%, making American exports more competitive in Indian markets.
Defence cooperation also strengthened, with the U.S. emerging as India’s third-largest arms supplier. Talks on potential purchases of F-35 stealth fighter jets and joint military production indicate a shift in India’s defence procurement strategy, reducing its dependence on Russian arms from 76% (2009-2013) to 36% (2019-2023).
In technology, India’s role in Artificial Intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing gained attention, with both nations aiming to deepen cooperation in innovation. The dominance of Indian professionals in Silicon Valley further reinforces this collaboration.
Diplomatic Wins: Immigration and Security Cooperation
A landmark outcome was the U.S. approval of the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai attacks. This move underscores the shared commitment to counterterrorism.
On immigration, Modi secured U.S. cooperation to streamline pathways for Indian professionals. Additionally, India facilitated the repatriation of over 100 undocumented Indian migrants, paving the way for future negotiations on H-1B visa policies.
India’s Rise in the Global Order
Modi’s diplomatic strategy has positioned India as a key player in global politics. From maintaining neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict to balancing ties with Israel and Palestine, India has adeptly managed international complexities.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor acknowledged the visit’s significance, noting Modi’s position as only the fourth global leader to meet Trump post-re-election, underscoring India’s elevated diplomatic stature.
A Mega Partnership for Prosperity
Beyond trade and defence, Modi’s visit symbolized India’s growing influence on global affairs. The equation MAGA + MIGA = MEGA highlights the increasing synergy between India and the U.S., bound by economic aspirations and strategic interests.
As India advances towards its Viksit Bharat 2047 goal, its engagement with the U.S. under Trump 2.0 will play a pivotal role in shaping the global order. With a focus on economic resilience, defence modernization, and diplomatic strategy, India is no longer just a participant but a key architect of the evolving world stage.
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