US Defense Policy Highlights India Relations
The annual defense policy bill of the United States reflects an emphasis on strengthening ties with India in an attempt to better compete with China in the Indo-Pacific region. Congressional leaders on Sunday released the National Defense Authorization Act-2026. It encourages the US Secretary of Defense to advance the defense partnership with India. It is proposed to do this in coordination with the Secretary of State. The bill also states that the Quad alliance can potentially play a significant role in achieving this objective.
Strategic Consultations and Nuclear Agreement
It encourages the US Secretary of State to create a consultation mechanism similar to the US-India Strategic Security Dialogue. It recommends a review of the progress on the civil nuclear agreement signed between India and the United States in 2008. The Secretary of State would have to make a joint assessment report within 180 days of the enactment of the Act.
Challenges in India-US Relations
During the second term of former President Trump, India-US relations were in shambles. Issues such as announcing a 50 percent increase in tariffs on India, announcements by Trump, and higher H-1B visa fees further widened the gulf between the two countries. Quad alliance activities became fewer during this period.
Renewed Emphasis on India
The National Defence Authorization Act-2026 underlines the importance of India for US strategic interests. It highlights that stronger cooperation with India is needed to maintain influence over China in the Indo-Pacific region.
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