During his visit to the United States to meet President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX. Although the specifics of their discussion were not fully detailed, Modi mentioned on social media that the conversation included various subjects, notably space, mobility, technology, and innovation. This was not the first time the two leaders had met, with a previous encounter in New York in 2023 where Musk expressed optimism about Tesla’s entry into the Indian market.
Accompanied by his top advisers—including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval—Modi’s meeting with Musk attracted attention partly due to Musk’s recent appointment by President Trump to lead a newly created Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE. While Trump later commented that he was unsure about the purpose of the meeting, he speculated that Musk might be exploring business opportunities in India.
The meeting also touched upon broader cooperative efforts between India and the United States in sectors such as innovation, space exploration, artificial intelligence, sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and governance. Musk’s interest in the Indian market is further highlighted by his efforts to introduce Starlink’s satellite internet service in the country, although this initiative has faced regulatory challenges and resistance from established domestic telecom companies.
In addition to issues concerning satellite communications, Musk’s Tesla has encountered obstacles in entering the competitive Indian automobile market, primarily due to high import duties and the nascent stage of the country’s electric vehicle industry. The Indian government aims to boost the electric vehicle sector, targeting a significant increase in its market share by 2030 through policies that encourage local manufacturing alongside concessions for fully imported vehicles.
7 Comments
Noir Black
“This report shows that despite some uncertainties, our leaders are taking bold steps to innovate and modernize India's infrastructure and industry.”
Eugene Alta
“A meeting between Modi and Musk signals that India is serious about stepping up in technology and electric vehicle manufacturing. Great progress!”
Noir Black
“Starlink’s potential in India could revolutionize internet access, and the conversation with Musk bodes well for bridging tech gaps.”
KittyKat
“Collaboration like this boosts the credibility of India’s long-term plans in sectors like space exploration and sustainable development.”
Noir Black
“It’s exciting to see world leaders and tech innovators like Modi and Musk coming together to discuss groundbreaking areas like space and technology!”
Leonardo
“Tesla’s struggles in India being brushed off by discussions of innovation is a joke when high import duties impede progress.”
Michelangelo
“This kind of cross-border dialogue shows a promising commitment to innovation and sustainable development.”