US strategic pivot toward India, common interests, growing trade, and shared values between two proven democracies further illustrate the synergy and the symbiotic relationship between US and India. Bangalore/Bengaluru is key component of that calculus. Establishing a full-fledged consular office is an imperative and compelling for the reasons below:

1.There are a vast number of Indian Americans (as a % of 3 million+ Indian American Population) living here in the U.S., with deep roots to Bengaluru/Bangalore. These Indian Americans have made noteworthy contributions to the US economy over the last 5 decades—including science, engineering, medicine, and information technology.

2.Bengaluru/Bangalore was and will always be India's "first" silicon, pharma, and biotech valley. The IT and Biotech Industry Continues to thrive and contributes to global GDP growth. Bangalore is key to US Supply Chain from a growth and development perspective. The growing middle-class and educated population, obvious demographic advantages, and rising consumer demand are ubiquitous in India, propelled by hyper-growth and bell-weather cities such as Bangalore.

3.There are numerous MNCs headquartered in Bengaluru. Companies such as Texas Instruments established their presence in early 80s long before the 30+ year tech revolution that took root in the mid-80s. Newgen companies such as Facebook, Google, Oracle, Intel, Amazon, etc have major presence in Bengaluru.

4.The International Airport is getting more accessible, and continues to expand. Bangalore is a vacation-friendly destination.

5.Bengaluru is cosmopolitan, pluralistic, tolerant, relatively safe with low crime, and climate is conducive. It has always prided itself with rich culture and diversity.

6.Bangalore is India’s bedrock for science, aerospace, engineering, and technology. A plethora of research and Ivy-caliber educational institutions are based there. They have been collaborating with US Research Community as well.

7) US Consular Office in Bangalore will assuage the inconvenience caused (e.g., travel to Chennai) and will immensely benefit US EXPATS, US Citizens, people seeking VISA services, MNCs, and will promote and strengthen  cultural, social, economic, and political bonds between two friendly democracies.