PM Modi presents US Intelligence Chief Tulsi Gabbard Ganga water from Mahakumbh, discusses strategic partnerships

Aiming at enhancing strategic partnerships between India and the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met with the United States Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, in New Delhi and presented Gabbard with a vase containing water from Ganga river from the recently concluded Maha Kumbh mela in Prayagraj.

PM Narendra Modi's gift to Tulsi Gabbard symbolises the cultural and spiritual significance of the sacred Ganges water.

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Glad to welcome @TulsiGabbard to India. Exchanged views on further advancing the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both countries are committed to combating terrorism and enhancing maritime and cyber security cooperation.”

Earlier on Sunday, Gabbard arrived in New Delhi for a two-and-a-half-day visit. Ever since US President Donald Trump assumed office in January this year, this is the first high-level engagement between India and a senior official from the Trump administration.

On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also held discussions with Gabbard. The discussions were focussed on strengthening overall defence cooperation and improving information sharing between India and the US.

After her arrival in New Delhi, Gabbard met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and attended a conclave of global intelligence chiefs hosted by India in the capital.

Her visit to India is a part of a larger multi-nation tour which includes stops in Japan, Thailand, and France. On Tuesday, Gabbard is scheduled to address the Raisina Dialogue, where she is expected to outline key strategic priorities in US-India relations.

Gangajal to Mauritius President Dharam Gokhool:

On 11 March, PM Narendra Modi met President of Mauritius Dharam Gokhool and gifted him Gangajal from Maha Kumbh. PM Narendra Modi gifted Gangajal during his two-day State Visit.

During his visit, PM Narendra Modi also met his Mauritius counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam and both the leaders planted a sapling at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden.

Maha Kumbh Mela took place from January 13 to February 26 in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj with holy dip at Sangam, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

With agency inputs.