• Source:JND
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The national capital is witnessing heightened security measures ahead of the arrival of United States Vice President JD Vance, who will touch down at the Air Force Station in Palam at 10 am on Monday, April 21. Accompanied by his Indian-origin wife Usha Chilukuri Vance and their three children, this marks the first visit by a sitting US Vice President to India in more than a decade.

With the significance of the visit, Delhi Police and central security agencies have tightened surveillance and deployed additional forces across the city. “We have already conducted mock drills according to the security protocol for the high-level visit,” a senior police officer told PTI. Key routes in and around Chanakyapuri, Lutyens’ Delhi, and Palam have been marked for restricted movement. Drone surveillance and sniffer dog squads have also been activated in sensitive areas.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that all arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and safe visit for the US delegation. Vance’s formal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled for 6:30 pm on Monday at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.

Focus On Trade Pact And Strategic Cooperation

Vice President Vance's trip comes at a time when both countries are seeking to revive discussions around a long-pending India-US bilateral trade agreement. His visit will also review the progress made on commitments laid out in the India-US Joint Statement issued in February 2025, following PM Modi’s visit to Washington.

In addition to PM Modi, Vance is expected to meet with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. A five-member US delegation from the Pentagon and the State Department is accompanying Vance, reflecting the strategic weight of the discussions.

According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, "The visit will provide an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, including trade, technology cooperation, and security in the Indo-Pacific."

Vance To Visit Jaipur And Agra After Delhi Engagements

Following his meetings in the capital, Vance is scheduled to visit Jaipur on April 22, where he is likely to participate in cultural and diplomatic engagements. On April 23, he will travel to Agra, before departing India on April 24 at 6:40 am.

His itinerary reflects a blend of political, strategic, and cultural diplomacy, showcasing India’s rich heritage while reinforcing bilateral ties.

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Historic And Symbolic Visit

JD Vance’s visit is significant not only for its political agenda but also because of its symbolic resonance. His wife, Usha Vance, is of Indian origin, and the family’s presence adds a personal touch to the diplomatic tour. Vance’s rise to power and personal connection to India have captured public interest on both sides. This visit also comes at a time of shifting global alliances and an increasingly assertive Indo-Pacific strategy by the US, in which India is seen as a vital partner.

Opposition Raises Key Concerns Ahead of Talks

While the government is preparing to host the US Vice President with grandeur, the Indian National Congress has questioned whether PM Modi will raise sensitive issues during the talks. In a press statement on Sunday, the Congress party urged the Prime Minister to highlight India’s concerns about:

 - The growing number of deportations of Indian nationals from the US.

 - The treatment of Indian students, many of whom have faced legal and administrative hurdles in recent years.

 - The erosion of the multilateral rules-based trading system, especially regarding WTO frameworks.

The party criticised the government's handling of trade negotiations and called for a more assertive foreign policy that protects Indian interests.

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As JD Vance arrives on Indian soil, the next few days are expected to witness high-stakes diplomacy, symbolic gestures, and potentially game-changing policy announcements between two of the world’s largest democracies.

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