United States-India Interparliamentary Group Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Gallagher, James [R-CA-1]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 15, 2026
Bottom line
This bill seeks to formalize and enhance diplomatic ties between the U.S. Congress and the Indian Parliament through a dedicated interparliamentary group, authorizing $100,000 annually for its expenses.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of State to negotiate with the Government of India to establish a United States-India Interparliamentary Group. Upon agreement, it creates a U.S. Group of up to 12 Members of Congress to represent the United States, tasked with meeting annually with Indian parliamentarians to discuss shared interests. The bill authorizes an annual appropriation of $100,000 for the U.S. Group's expenses and allows for private donations.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that establishing a formal interparliamentary group with India is a crucial step to strengthen a vital strategic partnership, foster consistent dialogue on shared democratic values and geopolitical interests, and facilitate closer legislative cooperation between the two nations. They believe it provides a structured platform for addressing complex bilateral and global challenges.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that existing diplomatic channels, such as the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans and direct engagements, are sufficient for interparliamentary dialogue and that creating a new formal group adds unnecessary bureaucracy. Some may also question the allocation of public funds for this purpose, especially if the perceived benefits do not outweigh the costs.
The bill is exceptionally short and straightforward, allowing for a complete understanding of its provisions in a matter of minutes, well within any reasonable time allocation.
Section 2(a)
Negotiation for Establishment of US-India Interparliamentary Group
This section mandates the Secretary of State, in consultation with Congress, to initiate negotiations with the Government of India within 180 days of the bill's enactment. The objective is to reach a written agreement to establish a United States-India Interparliamentary Group, designed to foster closer cooperation on shared interests and values between the two nations.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that this provision is essential for formalizing and elevating the strategic partnership with India, a critical democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific. They believe a dedicated interparliamentary forum will ensure consistent, high-level legislative dialogue, which is vital for addressing complex bilateral and global issues effectively.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that existing diplomatic channels and informal congressional caucuses are already sufficient for engaging with India's Parliament. They could argue that mandating a new formal group might create unnecessary bureaucracy without a clear demonstration of added value over current mechanisms.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for a more structured and consistent diplomatic engagement with India against concerns about creating potentially redundant or less efficient bureaucratic structures when informal channels already exist.
Section 2(b)(1)-(3)
Composition and Leadership of the United States Group
This section outlines the structure of the United States Group that will represent the U.S. within the Interparliamentary Group. It will consist of no more than 12 Members of Congress, with specific appointment allocations: three by the Speaker of the House, three by the House Minority Leader, three by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and three by the Senate Minority Leader. Each appointing authority must include at least one member from the respective foreign affairs committees. Appointments last for the duration of the Congress, and the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson roles will alternate between the House and Senate delegations every two years.
Section 2(b)(4)-(6)
Operations, Reporting, and Funding of the United States Group
This section details the operational aspects and financial support for the United States Group. It mandates that the U.S. Group should meet jointly with representatives of India's Parliament at least annually. The group is required to submit an annual report detailing its expenditures and purposes to the House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations Committees. Furthermore, the bill authorizes an annual appropriation of $100,000 for the group's expenses, divided equally between the House and Senate, and permits the acceptance of private gifts or donations, subject to review and approval by the respective ethics committees.