Indian American Congressman Shri Thanedar advocated stronger India–US ties, expanded immigration pathways, and greater Indian American civic participation.
Detroit
Indian American Congressman Shri Thanedar has made a strong pitch for deepening India–United States relations, expanding immigration opportunities, and enhancing political engagement by Indian Americans, describing the bilateral partnership as mutually beneficial and strategically vital. He was delivering the keynote address at the inaugural India Abroad Dialogue held in Detroit, widely known as the automobile capital of the world.
Addressing a gathering of eminent community leaders, Thanedar emphasised that a strong India–America relationship rests on strategic, economic, and people-to-people foundations. A strong India-America relationship is beneficial to both countries, he said, highlighting how collaboration between the world’s largest democracies can drive global stability, innovation, and prosperity.
Representing Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, Thanedar praised Indian immigrants for their significant contributions to the US economy, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and entrepreneurship. He noted that these skills are critical to strengthening America’s economic base and sustaining its technological leadership. According to him, the Indian American community’s role is directly linked to the country’s competitiveness in emerging industries and advanced manufacturing.
Thanedar also thanked India Abroad for launching the 10-city national dialogue series aimed at fostering engagement between policymakers and the Indian American diaspora. Give yourselves a round of applause, he told the organisers, acknowledging the effort to create a structured national platform for dialogue and discussion.
The India Abroad Dialogue, which began in Detroit, is being conducted in partnership with the Foundation of India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) and several other community organisations. As part of the nationwide outreach, similar events will be held in 10 cities across the United States. The next dialogue, scheduled in Chicago, is expected to feature Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and prominent Indian American physician and community leader Dr. Bharat Barai.
