New York – Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Indian diaspora on Sept. 22 in New York, announced the establishment of two new Indian consulates in the United States—one in Boston and the other in Los Angeles. This significant diplomatic initiative reflects India’s growing focus on enhancing its global presence and deepening relations with the United States, a key partner within the G20.
“These new consulates will serve as vital hubs for our citizens, providing crucial services and strengthening our cultural and economic ties with the United States,” Prime Minister Modi stated during his address. He highlighted the importance of these diplomatic missions in catering to the large and diverse Indian diaspora, as well as facilitating opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation between the two G20 nations.
The Boston consulate will serve Indian nationals and businesses in the northeastern U.S., while the Los Angeles consulate will cater to the western U.S., including California, a major center for technology and international commerce. Modi emphasized the strategic importance of Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the U.S. and a critical player in global trade, particularly within the Indo-Pacific region.
Gunjan Bagla, a prominent advocate for the Los Angeles consulate, expressed his gratitude for the government’s decision. “This is the result of years of effort by dedicated volunteers and community leaders,” Bagla said, noting that over 3,600 signatures from Southern California residents were collected in support of the initiative. “Having a consulate in Los Angeles is essential for representing India in such a globally influential city.”
Bagla also acknowledged the role of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who sent a formal letter to the Indian Ambassador outlining the strategic necessity of the consulate. “Los Angeles is the capital of the Pacific Rim, handling 40 percent of all overseas goods trade in the U.S. With the increasing importance of the Indo-Pacific, India’s presence here is crucial,” Bagla added.
Consul General Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, based in San Francisco, has made numerous visits to Southern California , maintaining a strong connection with the Indian community. “Dr. Reddy’s regular visits have been invaluable, but the opening of a permanent consulate in Los Angeles will allow for more consistent engagement and representation at local events,” Bagla said. The new consulate will also provide essential services, such as visa and passport assistance, and facilitate emergency travel, eliminating the need for local residents to travel to San Francisco.
This announcement is part of India’s broader strategy to expand its diplomatic presence globally, especially in key regions like the U.S. The consulates in Boston and Los Angeles will play a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral cooperation in technology, trade, and healthcare—key sectors in India-U.S. relations.
The opening of these consulates further underscores the growing partnership between India and the U.S., two of the world’s leading G20 economies. Preparations are expected to begin soon, marking a significant step forward in India’s commitment to supporting its diaspora and enhancing global engagement.
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