1. Modi’s first state visit to US

Despite visiting the United States multiple times as the Prime Minister, this current visit holds significance as Modi’s first state visit to the country since assuming office in 2014. Previous visits were for various multilateral events and programs, but this visit marks his first state bilateral visit.

2. Biden invites the third leader to a state visit:

Modi’s visit to the United States is important not only for him personally but also for India as he is the third foreign leader to be invited for a state visit by President Biden. Prior to this, French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Moon Jae-in were the two leaders to receive such an invitation. This highlights the significance of India’s role in Asia for the United States.

3. Second Indian leader to address both houses of Congress:

During his visit in 2016, when Barack Obama was the President, Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address both houses of the U.S. Congress. Now, in Biden’s tenure, Modi becomes the second Indian leader to have this opportunity. Only two leaders, Winston Churchill of the United Kingdom and Nelson Mandela of South Africa, had addressed both houses before this.

4. Commemorating International Day of Yoga at the UN Headquarters:

Modi’s significant contribution to yoga, which has been recognized by the United Nations, is marked by the celebration of International Day of Yoga on June 21st at the UN Headquarters in New York during his U.S. visit. Since December 11, 2014, when the United Nations declared June 21st as the International Day of Yoga, Modi’s government has been actively promoting yoga internationally. This includes organizing large-scale yoga events and setting Guinness World Records for mass yoga participation.

5. Focus on democratic values amidst global challenges:

Although Modi’s visit holds importance in strengthening India-U.S. relations, it is not without challenges. The United States has adopted a strategy to align with democratic countries, including India, against Russia and China, as seen through the QUAD and the Summit for Democracy initiatives. While India has not strongly opposed Russia’s actions in Ukraine or expressed immediate interest in becoming a member of the QUAD, the United States seeks India’s support.

This has led to debates within India regarding its stance on human rights and democracy, with 75 U.S. senators urging President Biden to raise these concerns with Modi during the visit.

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