The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) concluded its fourth annual Indian American Capitol Hill Day on June 23, bringing more than 150 delegates from 25 states to Washington to advocate on key policy issues affecting Indian Americans and U.S.-India relations.

The event included over 35 youth delegates and more than 40 women leaders. Delegates met with more than 100 congressional offices, including 16 U.S. Senate offices, in one of the largest coordinated Indian American advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.

Participants held policy meetings with members of Congress and senior staff to discuss legislative priorities including immigration reform, Indo-Pacific security, supply chain resilience, combating discrimination, and strengthening the U.S.-India strategic partnership.

FIIDS said the policy agenda was developed after reviewing nearly 300 bills introduced in the current and recent sessions of Congress.

“This was not a symbolic visit to Capitol Hill,” said Khanderao Kand, president and chief of policy and strategy at FIIDS. “Indian Americans are committed partners in shaping policies that strengthen America’s competitiveness, security and democratic values.”

A major focus of the advocacy effort was legal immigration reform. Delegates raised concerns about green card backlogs caused by per-country caps, delays in H-1B visa processing, and children aging out of dependent visa status while families wait years for permanent residency.

Deborah Ross emphasized the importance of legal immigrants and their families to America’s future, according to FIIDS.

Arizona youth delegate Kopal Sharma underscored the personal impact of immigration reform.

“The America’s CHILDREN Act isn’t just policy — it’s my story,” Sharma said. “Behind every policy are real people, families and futures.”

Delegates also raised concerns over growing incidents of discrimination and bias against Indian Americans, while urging lawmakers to continue supporting inclusion, religious freedom, and anti-hate initiatives.

Lawmakers from both parties expressed broad support for stronger U.S.-India cooperation, describing the relationship as critical to long-term economic and strategic interests.

FIIDS highlighted the growing contributions of Indian Americans in technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and public service. The organization noted that the community of more than 5 million continues to play an increasingly influential role in shaping American economic growth and innovation.

Illinois delegates played an active role in this year’s advocacy efforts. The Illinois delegation included community and business leaders Rakesh Malhotra, Deepti Suri, Nirav Patel, and Devesh Pandit, who participated in Congressional meetings and policy discussions.

Chicago-based businessman and community leader Rakesh Malhotra said the future of the U.S.-India partnership remains strong, while Devesh Pandit, Economic Commissioner for Morton Grove, said the event reflected the growing political influence of Indian Americans.

“The success of this event shows that Indian Americans have finally arrived,” Pandit said.

Yogi Chugh, FIIDS vice president of political liaison, said the event demonstrated the community’s growing role in shaping public policy.

“The success of Capitol Hill Day reflects the growing civic engagement of Indian Americans and their commitment to contributing constructively to America’s future,” Chugh said.

The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) is a nonpartisan public policy institute based in Washington focused on research, policy analysis and civic engagement initiatives related to the Indian American community.