The year 2024 was dramatic for the US, with President Joe Biden abandoning his reelection bid after a poor performance in a debate against Donald Trump. Trump, who had been absent from the White House for four years, made a triumphant return after defeating Kamala Harris in the presidential race. His comeback marks the first time since Grover Cleveland that a president has been evicted from the White House and returned four years later.

While the Biden administration exits, the India-US relationship remains strong, with both countries continuing to collaborate on various fronts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was reelected for a historic third term, congratulated Trump on his victory and expressed hope for further strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership. Both Biden and Trump have enjoyed good relations with Modi, with several high-profile visits, including Biden hosting Modi in Washington and both leaders meeting at the G-7 summit in 2024.

However, 2024 also brought new challenges. In a controversial development, Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, was charged with a foiled plot to assassinate Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil. Further legal tensions arose in October when former Indian government employee Vikash Yadav was charged in connection with the plot. Additionally, Indian billionaire Gautam Adani faced charges from the US Securities and Exchange Commission for an alleged bribery scheme.

Despite these issues, US officials expect the strong partnership between India and the US to continue under Trump’s presidency, citing ongoing bipartisan support. Indian-Americans, including Vivek Ramaswamy and Tulsi Gabbard, are poised to take key positions in Trump's administration, which could further shape US-India relations in the coming years.

The potential for Trump to impose high tariffs on Indian imports remains a point of concern, especially after India's imposition of tariffs on American goods. The Biden administration has expressed confidence that the transition to Trump's administration will not diminish the strength of the bilateral relationship, with support from key stakeholders in various sectors.