Bengaluru, January 17, 2025: Bengaluru, the powerhouse of India’s innovation and technology, achieves a transformative milestone with the opening of its first US Consulate. This momentous event marks a new chapter in India-US relations, streamlining access to visa services and strengthening global partnerships. This achievement is a result of the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi with the invaluable support of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and the determined efforts of MP Shri Tejasvi Surya.
For years, the lack of a US Consulate in Bengaluru, despite its pivotal role as a global innovation hub, created challenges for students, professionals and businesses. Residents had to travel to other cities for consular services. Today, this hurdle is eliminated, bringing immense relief to millions of Bengalureans and marking a significant leap forward for the state of Karnataka.
This consulate is a culmination of strategic advocacy and perseverance.
Soon after Tejasvi Surya’s election as MP for Bengaluru South, on November 18, 2019, Surya met with the Hon. EAM Dr. S Jaishankar and strongly requested the opening of a US Consulate in Bengaluru, holding discussions with US Ambassador Kenneth Juster. The approval gained momentum during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the US in 2023, cementing the consulate’s establishment in Bengaluru.
EAM Dr S Jaishankar highlighted the significance of this and said, “The people of Bengaluru have waited far too long for a US Consulate. Today, we give due credit to its people. This milestone is a testament to their global aspirations and the thriving potential of Karnataka. For me, this stands as one of the greatest takeaways of PM Modi Ji’s visit to the US and I’m glad to witness this becoming a reality.”
Reflecting on the occasion, Surya said: “Bengaluru, the innovation capital of India, deserves a consulate that matches its global stature. This consulate isn’t just about convenience, it’s a recognition of the aspirations of millions of Kannadigas. I thank PM Shri Narendra Modi and EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar for their vision and leadership in making this happen for Bengaluru.”
As the consulate opens its doors, Bengaluru stands proud, a step closer to its vision of being a truly global city. This achievement, rooted in the vision of PM Narendra Modi and the tireless efforts of MP Tejasvi Surya, sets the tone for a future of stronger partnerships, greater accessibility and boundless opportunities for India and its citizens.
