SPAN Edition 4 2025

SPAN

Monitoring Earth With NISAR | Decoding AI's Medical Responses | Boosting Security Through Eyes and Ears at Sea

Leading the Future of Tech

Editor in Chief

John S. Brown

Deepanjali Kakati

English Associate

Charvi Arora

Hindi Associate

Giriraj Agarwal

Urdu Associate Editor

Syed Sulaiman Akhtar

English Copy Editor

Krittika Sharma

Urdu Copy Editor

Zahoor Hussain Bhat

Art Director/ Production Chief

Hemant Bhatnagar

Deputy Art Directors/ Production Assistants

Qasim Raza,

Shah Faisal Khan

*

editorspan@state.gov

A conversation with Akshata Krishnamurthy on the science, engineering and partnerships behind NISAR, and how the mission will enhance our understanding of Earth’s changing systems.

Monitoring Earth With NISAR

BY CHARVI ARORA

Accurate and timely data about changes on Earth is essential for everything from growing crops to managing natural disasters. That’s where space technology can play a key role. The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, an Earth-observing radar satellite jointly developed by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is among the most advanced tools to monitor changes on our planet. The data from NISAR will empower policymakers and scientists to make informed decisions that protect lives and infrastructure in both India and the United States.

Akshata Krishnamurthy, a scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), serves as the science phase lead for the NISAR mission—one of the key figures driving the project.

Benefiting communities in both India and the United States, her work brings together science, engineering and international collaboration to strengthen food security, disaster response and environmental management. Excerpts from an interview with Krishnamurthy.

With the fast pace of technological change, how does NASA-JPL stay ahead in developing cutting-edge tools and methodologies for space exploration?

In my experience, innovation is a part of the culture at JPL. Missions like NISAR are born from decades of foundational research. We continuously invest in research and development, working across disciplines and collaborating with universities, government agencies and commercial companies. We’re always looking ahead, developing technologies that can support missions a decade or two from now.

Can you give an overview of the NISAR mission and its significance for Earth observation?

NISAR is the first observatory of its kind in space to systematically map Earth, using two different radar frequencies, L-band and S-band, to measure changes in our planet’s surface with unmatched detail and consistency. The primary objective of the mission is to track subtle changes in Earth’s surface that may signal ecosystem disturbances, ice sheet collapse, volcanic

eruptions or landslides. The mission will produce a vast amount of data that will be transformative for scientists, policymakers and communities.

What are some potential real-world applications of NISAR’s data for India and the United States?

The ability to capture subtle changes in Earth’s surface will make NISAR an invaluable tool. The satellite’s observations of forests, wetlands, agricultural fields and soil moisture will be key to supporting food and water security. Data from NISAR will also enable a better understanding of the dynamics of earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides and coastal processes such as erosion. This information will be critical for local and regional governments to make informed decisions on protecting infrastructure and real estate, as well as community planning.

Courtesy Akshata Krishnamurthy

In my opinion, international partnerships like NISAR leverage complementary capabilities, broaden scientific perspectives and increase access to space-based observations and data. They foster long-term cooperation as well as the sharing of resources and knowledge between countries.

Given the U.S.-India collaboration on NISAR, what do you see as the strengths of such international partnerships in space research?

In my opinion, international partnerships like NISAR leverage complementary capabilities, broaden scientific perspectives and increase access to spacebased observations and data. They foster long-term cooperation as well as the sharing of resources and knowledge between countries. Missions like NISAR help to build a more robust knowledge ecosystem and demonstrate how science and engineering can unite us in addressing global problems.

What inspired you to pursue a career in aerospace engineering and Earth observation, and how did your journey lead you to NASA’s JPL?

Growing up in India and watching space shuttle launches on TV in the early 2000s ignited a curiosity to learn what lies beyond Earth, and also to understand our own planet better. That early spark evolved into a deep interest in working on technologies that could push the boundaries of human knowledge. I pursued a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in India and then a master’s and Ph.D. in aerospace engineering in the United States.

Driven by the desire to work on space missions, I specialized in space systems and instrument development during my Ph.D. at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and had the incredible opportunity to work on two NASA space missions for my doctoral thesis.

My path to NASA JPL was shaped by years of hands-on research, perseverance and an unwavering vision to be part of missions that have real-world impact.

Today, I am grateful to be working on missions like NISAR that combine science, engineering and global collaboration to benefit millions of people around the world.

What emerging trends in Earth observation and space exploration do you find exciting?

I am particularly excited about the integration of Earth observations with artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver real-time insights at scale.

On the space exploration front, I am excited about more interplanetary missions with autonomous systems and human-robot collaboration for exploring the Moon and Mars. It is a thrilling time to be working in space exploration.

Nine Indian students gained hands-on diplomacy experience at the American Center Chennai, exploring U.S.-India cooperation, public diplomacy and global engagement.

Diplomacy in Action: Student Edition

BY KRITTIKA SHARMA

What’s it like to step into the world of diplomacy? For nine Indian university students, the Professional Enhancement Program at the American Center Chennai offered a firsthand look at how diplomacy works.

Over six weeks, students from diverse academic backgrounds explored key topics like public diplomacy, U.S.-India cooperation and global engagement through hands-on projects, expert-led sessions and assignments. The program introduced them to the skills and responsibilities of international affairs, preparing them to become future leaders who can advance shared priorities, strengthen bilateral ties and support U.S. strategic interests.

Diplomacy in action

At the core of the program were classes led by U.S. diplomats, consulate staff and alumni of U.S. government exchange programs. In these sessions, participants engaged with experts on applying for U.S. grants, leveraging U.S. commercial services, and understanding U.S. Indo-Pacific policies. These sessions helped them understand how public diplomacy supports efforts to make both the United States and India stronger, safer and more prosperous.

In one session, International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) alumnus Bernard D’Sami demonstrated how applying interdisciplinary knowledge can promote global understanding. During another discussion,

defense studies expert Uttam Kumar Jamadhagni walked them through the history of U.S.-India strategic ties, from the pre-independence era to the Quad’s role in the Indo-Pacific.

“I learned, unlearned and broadened my understanding of diplomacy,” says Hansika Navin Sah. “The program offered a glimpse into the kind of impact I hope to make in international relations.”

Participants also explored the American Spaces model, which promotes civic engagement and leadership development through programs on a wide range of topics, including critical technologies, security issues, entrepreneurship and other strategic initiatives.

Building practical skills

Experiential learning remained central to the program. Alongside classroom learning, students applied their knowledge through real-world projects. They collaborated with consulate teams on assignments like media analysis, digital outreach and STEM programs. They mapped American businesses in South India and created promotional content for eLibraryUSA, all while sharpening their communication and research skills.

A capstone diplomacy simulation challenged them to take on the roles of diplomats and negotiators, testing their knowledge through real-time decision-making to understand how informed strategies can support U.S. security, economic and policy objectives.

Along the way, participants received mentoring from the consulate’s public engagement and grants team. With their support, the participants developed and pitched proposals aligned with major U.S.-India initiatives like INDUS-X, which focuses on defense

technology cooperation.

An interdisciplinary approach

The program welcomed students from varied fields like engineering, history, political science and English literature. This mix of perspectives made team projects more engaging and encouraged interdisciplinary thinking, as students learned to integrate a variety of viewpoints.

“I stepped out of my comfort zone and explored topics beyond science and engineering,” says Varun Chandar. “It opened my eyes to new opportunities and what it means to be a global citizen.”

Students also learned to use a range of digital tools for project execution and event management. They practiced skills useful in diplomacy, media and public policy, like event planning, policy analysis and outreach strategy.

Lasting impact

The program culminated with a closing ceremony led by U.S. Consul General Chris Hodges. Participants presented their capstone projects and received certificates, joining a growing network of American Center alumni.

For Lakshmi Ramaswami, the experience was especially meaningful. “Learning alongside peers and mentors helped me strengthen both my professional goals and personal growth,” she says.

By connecting students to real-world experiences, the Professional Enhancement Program prepares the next generation of leaders and problem-solvers who can promote security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Above left /

Participants interact with U.S. Consul General Chris Hodges (right) during the program. / Left / Hands-on projects and assignments were key features of the Professional Enhancement Program.

U.S. Fulbright-Nehru researcher Aditi Anand is making AI responses more transparent by designing models that can help doctors trust AI diagnoses.

Decoding AI’s Medical Responses

BY KRITTIKA SHARMA

Can we rely on artificial intelligence (AI) to explain its decisions, especially in high-stakes settings like medicine? That question drives U.S. Fulbright-Nehru Student Researcher Aditi Anand’s work. While AI systems are becoming more advanced, they often can’t explain how they arrive at their conclusions. Anand aims to address this.

Through the Fulbright-Nehru program, she completed a six-month fellowship at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, where she worked on new ways to train AI models to give explanations, starting with how they make decisions in health care. By advancing trustworthy AI, Anand’s work not only improves transparency in medical applications but also strengthens U.S. leadership in critical, high-stakes emerging technologies.

“Most large language models (LLMs) or vision-language models might be able to diagnose a patient accurately, but rarely produce clear explanations for those diagnoses,” explains Anand. “Oftentimes, they ‘hallucinate’ or generate factually incorrect information by focusing on parts of the input that aren’t relevant to the diagnosis. My work focuses on improving explanation quality within these languages.”

Anand’s work in India has given her positive results, particularly with AI models that interpret medical images like X-rays and MRIs. “On the image-based side, our framework achieved about 10 percent improvement in explanation quality,” she says.

Solving AI’s “black box” problem

“In traditional AI algorithms, we usually don’t know exactly how they reach their conclusions,” Anand explains. “Because we don’t know how these systems work or why they make certain decisions, many refer to this as AI’s ‘black box’ nature,” she adds.

To tackle this, she designs “context-grounding” prompts, which are carefully worded instructions that guide AI models to focus on the right information. In practical terms, this means guiding AI models to focus on the most relevant parts of the input, particularly in language models. “I do this by enhancing the model’s input prompt to highlight the regions it should focus on,” she says. For image-based models, her work helps determine the most important areas related to the diagnosis.

Anand believes explainable AI could reshape how doctors and other professionals trust AI tools. “It can’t properly assist physicians unless physicians know why it’s making the decisions that it’s making,” she says.

With better explanations, she believes AI could become more effective, not just in health care but also across education and public services.

“I think having AI explanations that a layperson can understand will encourage more people to use them,” says Anand. “It would help build people’s trust in the model and speed up our integration of AI into different settings.”

Inspired by real-world use

Anand’s experience with ChatGPT led her to focus on explainable responses. “The explanations I get for my own queries aren’t clear or reliable enough. We need to fix that before AI can have a real impact on medicine.”

She illustrates this with a simple example of a prompt: “What is known as the powerhouse of the cell?” Most AI models tend to focus on keywords like “powerhouse” and “cell,” but often ignore contextual words like “what” and “known.”

“When trained to focus on the important words, the accuracy improves and so does the explanation,” explains Anand.

This example underscores a broader point: nuance in AI learning highlights the importance of collaboration beyond borders. “AI models trained on medical data from one patient population aren’t necessarily transferable to a different patient population just because of demographics,” says Anand. Cross-border research helps address this by creating more comprehensive datasets.

That belief took shape during her time at IIT Madras, where collaboration was embedded in the research

Left / Explainable AI could reshape how doctors and other professionals trust AI tools.

environment. “While they had ideas to work with this particular field, they hadn’t really started this project or identified potential data sources,” says Anand. “I began my work from scratch, but I could take ideas and inspiration from other people in my lab who are working in the same field.” Her experience in India exemplifies how the Fulbright-Nehru program promotes engagement, bringing together varied perspectives to address shared challenges in critical sectors like technology and health care. It also shows how U.S. research in emerging technologies can deliver practical solutions with global impact.

Broader impact

Anand graduated from Purdue University with a degree in electrical and computer engineering and will soon begin her medical studies at Vanderbilt University. Her career path combines engineering with her goal of becoming a physician to develop solutions for global challenges. If adopted widely, her work could help AI tools get approved for clinical use more quickly. “We’re more likely to use tools we understand,” she says. Clear explanations can also accelerate regulatory approval and real-world adoption in health care.

For aspiring researchers, Anand has one piece of advice: bring in a variety of perspectives. “Having different perspectives was very helpful to me during my project because, earlier, my main perspective on this field was from U.S. machine learning researchers. But after coming here, I learned from both U.S. and Indian physicians, AI researchers and other aspiring physicians in my cohort.”

U.S. Fulbright-Nehru scholar Bopaya Bidanda collaborated with Indian researchers to promote cost-effective engineering and guide emerging innovators.

Collaborative Engineering for Impact

BY ZAHOOR HUSSAIN BHAT

Bopaya Bidanda believes in using engineering to improve lives, especially when resources are limited. As a 2023-24 U.S. Fulbright-Nehru Scholar, he mentored early-career researchers and explored frugal engineering—a method for designing simple, cost-effective solutions that meet real-world needs.

Grounded in decades of experience linking academia and industry, Bidanda’s Fulbright-Nehru project in India focused on engaging with doctoral students and faculty at the National Institute of Industrial Engineering in Mumbai, as well as organizing a colloquium for participants from institutions across the country.

A professor of industrial engi-

neering at the University of Pittsburgh and recipient of several awards, including the John L. Imhoff Award for Global Excellence in Industrial Engineering, Bidanda has spent his career solving real-world problems and applying American expertise to global challenges. Through his Fulbright-Nehru work in India, he helped build collaborations that strengthen U.S. leadership in industrial engineering, promote the adoption of innovative, cost-effective technologies, and build connections between U.S. and Indian classrooms, labs and industries.

Advancing frugal innovation research

Bidanda’s research on frugal engineering focuses

on designing low-cost, high-value solutions for resource-constrained settings. “Engineers often over-design products and processes because we enjoy working with technology and new tools,” he says. “However, this adds to the cost.”

His solutions are based on a method known as value engineering, first developed by the American company General Electric in the 1940’s, which aims to reduce costs by re-engineering products, processes and projects while maintaining or increasing value.

Bidanda’s goal is to develop a framework to apply this concept. His work involves creating a systematic methodology for creative, low-cost solutions to problems using limited resources.

Mentoring the next generation

During his time in India, Bidanda organized a doctoral colloquium at the Indian Institute of Management Mumbai, which brought together over 85 Ph.D. scholars and junior faculty from 22 institutions across India and Sri Lanka. “The objective of the colloquium was to provide participants with the foundational skills to develop successful and global academic careers,” says Bidanda. “A secondary objective was to develop peer

networks across the next generation of Ph.D. scholars in academia and industry.” By connecting early-career researchers with U.S. expertise and fostering collaborations, the colloquium helped nurture future leaders who can drive innovation, reinforce U.S. leadership in science and technology, and strengthen academic and industrial partnerships in the region.

Bopaya Bidanda’s Fulbright-Nehru work in India helped foster collaborations that strengthen U.S. leadership in industrial engineering, promote the adoption of innovative technologies, and build connections between U.S. and Indian classrooms, labs and industries.

Participants from the Indian Institutes of Technology Jammu and Guwahati, the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka, and several other institutions attended the event, which included seminars by experts from the United States, Singapore, Romania and the Philippines. The colloquium ended with awards for the best short research pitch.

Expanding regional networks

Besides fostering cross-border collaboration, Bidanda believes exchange programs like Fulbright-Nehru draw from “each country’s strengths, accelerating the level of technology, and improving the quality of life for all people.”

His success with the colloquium model has opened new doors. “The United States-Sri Lanka Fulbright Commission based in Colombo has since reached out to implement a similar colloquium,” says Bidanda.

U.S. Fulbright-Nehru scholar Dharmendra Saraswat leveraged American expertise in AI to detect rice blast disease and promoted hands-on learning across India’s agricultural research community.

Teaching and Tech for Food Security

BY SYED SULAIMAN AKHTAR

Dharmendra Saraswat, a professor at Purdue University and U.S. Fulbright-Nehru scholar, wants to tackle a critical agricultural challenge: rice blast disease, a harmful infection that can ruin rice crops. In 2023-24, at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, he adapted deep learning models, originally developed for corn, to detect early signs of

the disease in rice.

By combining drone imagery with sensor data, he helped develop predictive tools that can detect early signs and protect crops in the United States and India from damage. These innovations build on cutting-edge U.S. expertise in agricultural data science, showcasing how American research drives practical solutions with

Courtesy Dharmendra Saraswat

that can detect early signs of rice blast disease and protect crops.

global impact.

In addition to his research, Saraswat also mentored young scientists and advised agri-tech start-ups across India, expanding networks of expertise that reinforce U.S. leadership in agricultural technology and problem-solving. His engagement with students, researchers and entrepreneurs also reflects the Fulbright-Nehru program’s commitment to building connections that make both India and the United States safer, stronger and more prosperous.

Innovation and collaborations

The idea of working on rice blast disease came unexpectedly to Saraswat while helping a graduate student. “I read an article that the fungal disease destroys enough rice to feed 60 million people annually, resulting in nearly $60 billion in losses. Rice feeds over half of the world’s population and supports millions of farmers, particularly in India,” he says. “With yields needing to increase by over 40 percent by 2030, early detection is critical.”

Drawing from work done on corn disease detection, Saraswat adapted deep learning models using rice-specific data at the IARI, which has an active program in rice disease research. The models detected early infec-

tions and supported the creation of new spectral metrics as well as drone and satellite monitoring systems.

Saraswat explains that the collaboration with IARI began with a shared goal: to modernize spatial data science education by making it more relevant and hands-on. However, due to organizational changes at IARI, he shifted his focus to delivering pedagogy-based seminars across India. These emphasized experiential learning, the Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) method, and weekly hands-on ex-

“This work complemented a multistate U.S. project I had led, reinforcing the need to connect theory with real-world practice in agri-tech,” he says. This approach highlights U.S. strengths in collaborative, data-driven agriculture research, combining advanced modeling techniques with applied field solutions. Saraswat also evaluated agri-tech start-ups, served as an invited member on the committee reviewing India’s National Pest Surveillance System launched in August 2024, and led workshops on edge computing at Indian Council of Agricultural Research institutes, expanding the reach of his Fulbright-Nehru project.

Strengthening scientific ties

The Fulbright-Nehru experience deepened Saraswat’s belief in the power of U.S.-India scientific collaboration. At IARI, he worked closely with agricultural engineers, plant pathologists and remote sensing experts. “I formalized collaborations with institutions like Dayalbagh Educational Institute in Agra, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology in Meerut to promote joint research, curriculum innovation and student exchange,” he adds.

Saraswat also engaged with leaders at the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) and the Indian Department of Science and Technology to explore sustainable models for cross-border innovation.

He believes that academic research continues to be a powerful force in strengthening U.S.-India ties. “At Purdue,” he notes, “the connection with India spans over 125 years. We have over 3,000 Indian students and 300 faculty of Indian origin. Recent initiatives, like the Purdue-India Center for Education and Engagement, and the U.S.-India Center of Excellence in Semiconductors with IIT Hyderabad, support joint degrees, research and innovation in frontier fields.”

U.S. Fulbright-Nehru scholar Arpita Joardar helps Indian business students build cross-cultural skills and strategic thinking, strengthening U.S.-India academic ties.

U.S. Expertise Strengthens Indian Business Education

BY CHARVI ARORA

Classrooms are often where the future of business begins, and Arpita Joardar is helping ensure that students gain the skills needed to be competitive.

A seasoned educator with two decades of teaching experience and a Ph.D. in international business from the University of South Carolina, Joardar understands firsthand the challenges of working across cultures. “When I first moved to the United States, I found the experience both thrilling and challenging. It was exciting to live in a new country, but adapting to a different culture felt daunting,” she recalls.

These early experiences sparked her interest in helping others navigate cross-cultural interactions in business. “Many promising international business ventures fail because the people involved do not understand partners from other cultures, or misunderstandings result in trust issues that derail deals,” she notes.

Building on these insights, she focused her research on cross-cultural management, integrating perspectives from organizational behavior, strategy, economics, psychology and cultural anthropology to understand how international business works.

Strengthening academic ties

As a 2023 U.S. Fulbright-Nehru scholar, Joardar brought her expertise to India, where she worked with faculty and students at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore to teach classes and conduct seminars addressing international business challenges.

“Teaching at IIM Indore was incredibly rewarding. Many students reached out after class, which helped me understand their goals better,” she says. In addition to master’s students, she also engaged Ph.D. students, some of whom she is now collaborating with on research projects. Her work exemplifies the broader goals of the Fulbright program: connecting American experts with global partners to generate solutions for complex economic and strategic challenges.

Bridging classrooms

Joardar’s experience illustrates the complementary strengths of U.S. and Indian business education. “American schools focus significantly on strategic abilities and communication skills, while Indian schools emphasize analytical abilities,” she explains. “By collaborating, we can develop a highly effective group of professionals.”

Technology now enables virtual partnerships between institutions across continents, expanding the potential for joint programs and collaborative research even when in-person exchanges are limited. Joardar sees this as a critical step in preparing students to thrive in a connected, competitive world.

Beyond classroom teaching, Joardar’s engagement reflects U.S. leadership in management education and innovation. By sharing American approaches to strategic thinking, leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration, she helps enhance the global competitiveness of

By sharing American approaches to strategic thinking, leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration, Arpita Joardar helps enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. business education.

U.S. business education.

Lessons and takeaways

The Fulbright-Nehru experience also challenged some of Joardar’s assumptions about global business education. “Although I knew there were cultural differences, I had not accounted for the subtle variations in how educational institutions are managed across countries. While there are similarities in student learning outcomes, there can be differences in course structures and faculty expectations. This was an important and interesting lesson,” she reflects.

For aspiring researchers and educators, her advice is simple: “We live in a shrinking world where people from different countries must work together. So, the only way forward is to learn how to navigate such cultural challenges.”

By connecting U.S. expertise with Indian institutions, Joardar’s work helps prepare a generation of students capable of navigating cultural complexities, supporting economic partnerships and driving innovation. In doing so, she exemplifies how academic exchange programs like Fulbright-Nehru advance U.S. leadership while addressing global challenges.

In the lead-up to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, American Spaces across India will engage young Indians in exploring U.S. history, culture and values.

America250 Meets Young India

BY CHARVI ARORA

Below left / As part of a yearlong series of events, American Centers and Corners will host workshops and speaker sessions. / Right / A participant engages with a panel of experts during the “Deep Tech Industry Workshop” hosted by the American Center New Delhi, through its Nexus Startup Hub, as part of the America250 commemorations.

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, American Spaces in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata will help young Indians connect with the ideas, values and innovations that have shaped the United States.

As part of a year-long series of events, American Centers and American Corners will host film screenings, quizzes, workshops and speaker sessions to celebrate the United States’ commitment to innovation and the ideals of democracy and showcase the rich tapestry of American stories.

Whether it is students learning about different U.S. states and key historic milestones, or patrons experiencing American culture through films and technology, each event will offer a chance to reflect on what freedom and leadership mean today.

America250, launched by President Donald Trump, calls for renewed appreciation for America’s heritage and its spirit of adventure and innovation. American Spaces across India are answering that call by inviting young Indians to learn, get inspired and celebrate the American story.

A closer look at America

At Dosti House Mumbai, the “America250 Quiz Challenge” will test students’ knowledge of U.S. history, science, innovation and leadership.

Another key event series, “Your Window Into America,” will feature a different U.S. state every month.

Students will learn how each state has shaped America’s story—from energy and agriculture to space and tech. The sessions will pair each U.S. state with an Indian city to compare their culture and innovations.

To complete the experience, Dosti House Mumbai will offer visual exhibits and virtual reality tours of American landmarks, universities and key historic events, making the American story feel real and relevant.

Hands-on learning

At the American Center Chennai, America250 programming will highlight education, innovation and diplomacy. Weekly orientation sessions will welcome students to explore American Center resources, eLibrary USA and U.S. government programs. These programs will include film screenings that highlight American history, values and leadership.

At monthly “Chat with a Diplomat” sessions aligned with America250, students will engage directly with U.S. diplomats on commercial diplomacy, energy cooperation and space policy. In bimonthly diplomacy simulations, students will take on the role of diplomats to negotiate global challenges using case studies developed by Georgetown University and the Museum of American Diplomacy.

Films and civic conversations

In Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, American Corners will use movies to spark discussions. Each screening will include a guided discussion on leadership,

innovation and the values that shape U.S. society.

“Chat with a Diplomat” sessions will give students the chance to engage directly with senior U.S. officials on topics like democracy.

American Spaces will also go off-campus to reach more students. In Kolkata, orientations at teacher training colleges will introduce students to U.S. resources, programs and business English, showing how these tools can support their careers. Additionally, monthly film screenings in Kolkata will introduce American literature and cinema, paired with discussions on digital resources. Through panel discussions, themed discussions, quizzes and “Chat with a Diplomat” sessions, audiences will get to hear firsthand perspectives on U.S. life, democracy and leadership.

Cinema, stories and shared ideas

In New Delhi, the American Center is placing movies at the heart of America250 celebrations. Friday Flicks and film festivals will explore themes of freedom and democracy.

Below / Aligned with America250, a “Chat with a Diplomat” session at the American Center Chennai saw students engage U.S. diplomats on commercial diplomacy, energy cooperation and space policy.

America250 was launched by President Donald Trump, calling for renewed appreciation for America’s heritage and its spirit of adventure and innovation.

A “Western Wednesday” movie series will present six weeks of classic American Westerns. With live music and expert speakers, the series will dive into ideas of justice, heroism and American identity. For students of film and culture, a mini film festival will spotlight American films with Indian connections.

As America250 events unfold across India, students, educators and young professionals have a unique opportunity to connect with American values, culture and innovation. Stay informed by visiting your nearest American Space or following them on social media for event updates, highlights and ways to participate.

The U.S. State Department’s Indo-Pacific Secure and Sustainable Infrastructure Program strengthens port security and resilience by training Indo-Pacific experts.

Above / As part of the Indo-Pacific Secure and Sustainable Infrastructure Program, participants visited major U.S. ports, like the Port of Long Beach, to get firsthand insights into the systems that keep America’s busiest ports running smoothly.

Securing the Indo-Pacific Gateway

BY CHARVI ARORA

Ports are critical to how nations trade, grow and maintain security. In the Indo-Pacific region, they are more than just gateways for goods. They serve as central hubs for economic development, digital connectivity, data movement and regional stability. With rising threats like cyberattacks and geopolitical tensions, countries need smarter and safer ways to build and manage port infrastructure.

To support this need, the U.S. State Department

launched the Indo-Pacific Secure and Sustainable Infrastructure Program (IPSSIP) under the Quad Infrastructure Fellowship. Through this program, Indian experts joined peers from eight other participating countries across the region to work directly with U.S. port operators, planners and cybersecurity teams. Their mission was to learn how the United States protects its vital infrastructure while improving and maintaining efficiency and sustainability.

This program reflects the U.S. government’s broader Indo-Pacific priorities. Through IPSSIP, the United States is helping build a network of regional leaders who can apply what they have learned back home. These lessons are not theoretical; they are real strategies being shared from one coast to another.

By sharing its tested frameworks and operational strategies, the United States is helping partners strengthen their ports and prepare for future challenges. For fellows like Pooja Bhatt, Vivek Mishra, Rahul Pavan Kumar Nuthalapati, and Chime Youdon, the experience offered more than just technical knowledge. It illuminated a clearer path to stronger U.S.-India cooperation.

Learning from U.S. ports experiences

As part of the program, the participants visited major U.S. ports at Los Angeles, Long Beach, New Orleans, Boston and Seattle. They met U.S. officials, port operators and cybersecurity teams. These site visits gave them firsthand insights into the systems that keep America’s busiest ports running smoothly.

Bhatt, a visiting fellow at the Centre for Air Power Studies in New Delhi, shared how these experiences shaped her work in India. “The first thing I did after completing this program was to prepare a report

and share it with the offices of the ministries and officials working on maritime issues such as the Ministry of Shipping,” she says. “It includes sustainable infrastructure development, cybersecurity and even ports as crucial sociocultural spaces for a larger community.” Her efforts went beyond government outreach. “I have been using my IPSSIP experiences not only for my academic and research work but also for teaching my students,” she adds.

Nuthalapati, an associate manager at Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited, says the experience helped him apply U.S. best practices at work. “I would categorize the knowledge I gained through the program into two buckets—operational approaches and strategic reference points. We have already benchmarked our safety practices, so the program helped me understand how these were implemented in U.S. ports and infrastructure.”

Securing port infrastructure

A major insight for many fellows was the strong link between security and port efficiency. Mishra from the Observer Research Foundation says, “The visits made it clear that infrastructure efficiency, security and resilience are deeply intertwined, one cannot exist without the others.”

He explains that U.S. ports rely heavily on digital systems. “Port infrastructure today is heavily reliant on digital systems,” he says, “which enhance operational capabilities but simultaneously increase vulnerability to cyber threats.”

A key moment for him was a visit to a cyber command center. “Learning about the sheer volume of daily cyberattacks targeting U.S. ports was eye-opening,” says Mishra. “It underscored how tightly integrated cybersecurity is with national infrastructure security.”

Strengthening port ties

The fellows also saw new opportunities for closer maritime cooperation. “India and the United States should pursue sister-port agreements to institutionalize cooperation in areas like port modernization, technology deployment, cybersecurity and real-time data sharing,” says Mishra.

For Nuthalapati, long-term collaboration matters most. “My main takeaway from the program was that the United States and India need to collaborate on infrastructure. As the economic ties deepen between both countries, infrastructure, especially maritime, becomes a core element in the relationship.”

Bhatt notes that ports also serve the community. “Another thing that became close to my heart after

Left / As part of the program, Vivek Mishra (from left), Chime Youdon and Pooja Bhatt visited major U.S. ports at Los Angeles, Long Beach, New Orleans, Boston and Seattle.

As the economic ties deepen between both countries, infrastructure, especially maritime, becomes a core element in the relationship.

visiting the public spaces created by the port authorities in Los Angeles, Long Beach and New Orleans, is to build ports as community spaces, in addition to trading centers,” she says. “Human interface with the seas shifts when they interact with it.” These spaces, like waterfront parks, cultural exhibits, and educational centers, can increase public awareness of maritime issues and foster civic engagement in coastal development.

Building resilient systems

American ports showcased not just advanced technologies, but effective governance. “Port authorities, city councils and federal agencies emphasized the importance of proactive planning, cyber-readiness and community engagement,” says Youdon, a research fellow and head at the National Maritime Foundation in New Delhi. She believes the whole region can benefit from this approach.

“Cybersecurity, infrastructure governance and maritime connectivity are deeply interconnected. Vulnerabilities in one can compromise the entire system,” Youdon adds. Her key insight from the program was “regional cooperation is no longer optional; it’s essential.”

The United States is building a sculpture garden, the National Garden of American Heroes, to commemorate men and women who embody the American spirit.

Celebrating American Heroes

In his Executive Order on Building the National Garden of American Heroes issued on January 18, 2021, President Donald Trump stated, “The National Garden will feature a roll call of heroes who deserve honor, recognition, and lasting tribute because of the battles they won, the ideas they championed, the diseases they cured, the lives they saved, the heights they achieved, and the hope they passed down to all of us—that united as one American people trusting in God, there is no challenge that cannot be overcome and no dream that is beyond our reach.”

Meet some of the 250 heroes whose likenesses will be featured in the garden, a place where, as President Trump says, “citizens, young and old, can renew their vision of greatness.”

George Washington was a Founding Father and the first president of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797. As commanderin-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, he led patriot forces to victory over the British and helped secure American independence. Often called the Father of the Nation, Washington set enduring precedents for the presidency and the new republic.

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States (1861–65), who preserved the union during the American Civil War and brought about the emancipation of enslaved people through the Emancipation Proclamation and the push for the Thirteenth Amendment. A self-taught lawyer and former congressman from Illinois, Lincoln is remembered for his leadership, eloquence and commitment to fairness.

Benjamin Franklin was a statesman, diplomat, writer, scientist, inventor, printer and publisher, and one of the most influential figures in colonial America. As a Founding Father, he helped draft and signed the Declaration of Independence, represented the United States in France during the American Revolution, and participated as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention. He made important contributions to science, especially in the understanding of electricity. He is also remembered for the wit and clarity of his writing.

Alexander Hamilton was a Founding Father of the United States, a soldier in the American Revolutionary War, and a key architect of the Constitution, which he helped draft and advocated for its ratification. He also served as the nation’s first Secretary of the Treasury, where he established the foundations of the American financial system. Beyond his political and military roles, Hamilton was a lawyer, scholar, economist and congressman, whose ideas and leadership helped shape the early United States.

Daniel Boone was a pioneer, frontiersman and explorer whose exploits made him one of the nation’s first folk heroes. He is best known for blazing a trail through the Cumberland Gap, a key passage in the Appalachian Mountains, which opened the American western frontier to settlement and exploration.

Francis Scott Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry on September 14, 1814, and saw the American flag still flying over the fort—a powerful symbol of bravery and perseverance. Inspired by this moment, he wrote “The Defense of Fort M’Henry,” which soon became known as “The Star-Spangled Banner” and was officially designated the national anthem in 1931. Beyond his literary legacy, Key was a prominent lawyer in Frederick, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., serving as the district attorney for the District of Columbia from 1833 to 1841.

Thomas Alva Edison was an inventor who held a record 1,093 patents, either individually or jointly. He created the world’s first industrial research laboratory, which produced inventions like the phonograph, the incandescent light bulb, the motion picture camera, and improvements to the telegraph and telephone. Edison also developed the carbon-button transmitter, a highly efficient generator, the first commercial electric power system, an experimental electric railroad, and components of early motion-picture technology. His work played a central role in ushering in the modern age of electricity and transforming daily life.

Luis Walter Alvarez was an experimental physicist awarded the 1968 Nobel Prize in physics for his pioneering work that included the discovery of many resonance particles. During World War II, he played a critical role in developing advanced radar systems, including the microwave early warning system, the Eagle high-altitude bombing system, and the Ground-Controlled Approach (GCA) landing system, which proved vital for both military and civilian aviation.

Audie Leon Murphy was one of the most decorated American soldiers of World War II, earning the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1945 for his extraordinary bravery. Celebrated as a national hero, he went on to become a Hollywood actor, starring in films such as “The Red Badge of Courage,” “To Hell and Back” and “The Quiet American.” Beyond the screen, Murphy was also a writer of countrywestern songs and poetry.

Novelist and short-story writer Ernest Hemingway was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954. He was known for his economical and understated prose style, which had a lasting influence on American fiction. Hemingway’s adventurous lifestyle and blunt public persona contributed to his enduring image. Several of his novels, short-story collections, and nonfiction works are considered classics of American literature.

Frank Sinatra was an influential singer, actor and producer whose career spanned more than five decades. He rose to fame as a crooner during the Swing Era and later became a successful solo artist, achieving major success in both music and film. Through his long career, he became one of the most sought-after and iconic performers of the 20th century and is often hailed as the greatest American singer of popular music of his time.

Shirley Temple, often called “America’s sweetheart,” was an actress, singer, dancer and diplomat who became Hollywood’s top box-office draw as a child star from 1935 to 1938. Over a career spanning three decades, she appeared in 14 short films, 43 feature films and more than 25 storybook movies. Later, she served the United States as a delegate to the United Nations, as U.S. ambassador to both Ghana and Czechoslovakia, and as the first woman chief of protocol at the State Department.

With more than 200 million albums, singles and videos sold worldwide during her career, Whitney Houston set a high standard for commercial success in popular music. Music historians note her recordsetting achievements: she was the only artist to chart seven consecutive #1 Billboard Hot 100 hits, the first female artist to debut at #1 on the Billboard 200 album chart, and one of the few solo artists to release eight consecutive multi-platinum albums.

George Herman “Babe” Ruth remains one of the most iconic figures in baseball history. Beginning his career as a skilled pitcher, he led the Boston Red Sox to three World Series titles before his 1919 trade to the New York Yankees. There, he set numerous records, including 60 home runs in a season (1927), which stood until 1961. He also held the record for career home runs (714), until 1974. Nicknamed “The Sultan of Swat,” Ruth was a larger-than-life cultural icon whose charisma and love of the game endeared him to fans.

At the Berlin 1936 Olympic Games, Jesse Owens claimed four gold medals—a feat that went unmatched for nearly 50 years. On successive days, Owens won gold in the 100-meter dash, the long jump and the 200-meter dash, setting an Olympic record. He also set world records in various track and field events during his career.

Photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams is best known for his striking black-and-white images of American landscapes. He developed the influential “zone system,” a method of controlling and relating exposure and development that allows photographers to pre-visualize an image and produce a photograph that matches that vision. Adams also authored 10 volumes of technical manuals, widely regarded as some of the most important works ever written on photography.

A record-setting aviator, Amelia Earhart was the second person to fly solo and nonstop across the Atlantic and the first woman to fly solo and nonstop across the United States, among other achievements. Her aviation accomplishments brought her international recognition, leading her to lecture extensively, author several books, and advocate for causes she was passionate about. She tragically disappeared while attempting to fly around the world.

Neil Armstrong began his flight career as a naval aviator. He joined the NASA predecessor, NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics), as a research pilot at the Lewis Laboratory in Cleveland and later transferred to the NACA High Speed Flight Station at Edwards AFB, California. In 1962, Armstrong was transferred to astronaut status. As command pilot for the Gemini 8 mission in 1966, he performed the first successful docking of two vehicles in space. In 1969, Armstrong was commander of Apollo 11, the first manned lunar landing mission, and gained the distinction of being the first man to land a craft on the Moon and the first man to step on its surface.

Christa McAuliffe, a high school teacher, made history in 1985 as the first American civilian chosen for spaceflight. On January 28, 1986, she boarded the Challenger space shuttle in Cape Canaveral, Florida, but tragedy struck when the shuttle exploded shortly after liftoff, killing everyone on board.

Boeing subsidiary Liquid Robotics and Indian start-up Sagar Defence Engineering are co-developing autonomous surface vehicles to monitor the seas to safeguard a free and resilient Indo-Pacific.

Boosting Security Through Eyes and Ears at Sea

BY KRITTIKA SHARMA

The U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce, and Technology) framework, announced in February 2025, reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to a dynamic defense partnership spanning multiple domains. One example of this partnership is the collaboration between Liquid Robotics, a U.S.-based subsidiary of Boeing, and Sagar Defence Engineering, a start-up based in Maharashtra. Together, they are co-developing cutting-edge autonomous surface vessels (ASVs)

that can help both nations protect oceans and maritime borders.

Sagar Defence Engineering began with a deeply personal story. Company founder Captain Nikunj Parashar was at sea when terrorists attacked Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace and Oberoi Trident hotels in 2008. His father was in the city, and Parashar could not reach him for hours. When he learned that the attackers had arrived by sea, he realized how critical maritime surveillance was to national security.

The U.S. ecosystem is far ahead in manufacturing and research and development. The focus on standards, quality and zero-error tolerance is impressive. When they commit to something, they deliver.

“As a merchant mariner, I felt that things could change if we had more eyes and ears out on the ocean,” says Parashar. “Even though we have many warships, we have the Indian Coast Guard and patrol vessels, it’s still difficult to manage all the choke points. And that’s what led to the idea behind Sagar Defence.”

Underwater awareness

In March 2025, Sagar Defence teamed up with Liquid Robotics, known for its unique Wave Glider platforms. These solar- and wave-powered boats can stay out at sea for months. They send real-time data without needing fuel or recovery. “Wave Gliders are already operating in India and also globally,” says Parashar. “They’re among the finest platforms—wave-propelled, silent and capable of surviving harsh conditions.”

Boeing played a key role in bringing the two companies together for the collaboration, which aligns with the U.S.-India roadmap on defense and technology cooperation.

The Indo-Pacific region is vital to both the United States and India for trade and security. With rising ten-

sions and underwater threats, the need for advanced systems that can operate without humans has become urgent. Wave Gliders are ideal for this, especially in areas like the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.

“In our region, threats are primarily underwater,” explains Parashar. “This platform is passive, undetectable, and can stay at sea for months while transmitting encrypted data. It transits from one point to the mission area and stays there, which is an unprecedented ability. Its rugged design and long endurance make it ideal for Indo-Pacific operations.”

Sagar Defence is working to modify these U.S.-made platforms to meet India’s unique needs. “We’re co-developing these autonomous surface vehicles,” says Parashar. “Based on operational experience and client feedback, we’re adapting sensor configurations and launch/recovery systems for Indian conditions.”

Leveraging U.S. technology

Working with a U.S. defense innovator has been a big learning curve for Sagar Defence. Parashar notes that high standards, strict processes and strong follow-through define the U.S. approach.

“The U.S. ecosystem is far ahead in manufacturing and research and development,” explains Parashar. “The focus on standards, quality and zero-error tolerance is impressive. When they commit to something, they deliver.”

The project highlights policy improvements that can support such ventures. “We’re still learning, but this collaboration, especially in underwater domain awareness, can build stronger trust,” says Parashar. “Policy changes are bound to follow, especially with technology transfers involved. This could set an example for others, helping ease ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) restrictions and standardize technical assistance agreements processes.”

HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited partners with U.S. company Emerson to explore AI, machine learning and automation tools to further modernize refinery operations and strengthen U.S.-India energy cooperation.

AI Energizes Punjab Refinery

BY KRITTIKA SHARMA

ow can modern refineries meet growing energy needs while staying safe, efficient and scalable?

At HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL), a petrochemical and refining company headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, the answer lies in advanced automation and global collaboration. This year, HMEL signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU)

with the Missouri-based automation company, Emerson, to co-develop and explore artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) solutions at its refinery in Bathinda, Punjab, with the goal of boosting performance and safety.

The collaboration also positions Emerson—and by extension U.S. industry—in the Indo-Pacific energy

sector, a region central to global trade and security, reinforcing American competitiveness in critical technologies.

Anil Bhatia, managing director and vice president at Emerson India, says, “We are focused on delivering next-generation technologies through collaborations with companies like HMEL. We are committed to helping our customers manage operational complexity, navigate labor shortages, and maintain resilience and competitiveness in today’s global environment. Together with our customers, we intend to drive scalable innovation.”

While Emerson sees the collaboration as a chance to apply U.S. expertise and innovation in a rapidly expanding market, HMEL views it as a pathway to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen operations across the refining sector.

The refinery of the future will not be a linear process plant. It will be a dynamic, learning system powered by AI, resilient to market shocks and responsive to societal needs.

“HMEL believes that digital solutions have a strong role to play in enhancing the entire hydrocarbon value chain,” says Prabh Das, managing director and CEO at HMEL. “Such MoUs with leading U.S. companies will help develop innovative solutions to improve efficiency, productivity, profitability, and sustainability, helping HMEL remain a frontrunner of digital transformation.”

A smarter refinery

HMEL runs the Guru Gobind Singh Refinery in Bathinda, one of India’s most advanced energy hubs. It supports the local economy by meeting fuel needs and selling petrochemical products.

According to Das, as energy demand rises, driven by rapid industrial growth, urbanization and higher consumption, the refining sector must evolve into a “future-ready engine that is agile, efficient and digitally intelligent.” Legacy systems alone, he explains, are not enough. “The refinery of the future will not be a linear process plant. It will be a dynamic, learning system powered by AI, resilient to market shocks and responsive to societal needs.”

Optimizing large-scale operations improves production, meets rising energy needs and contributes to resilience. The collaboration between HMEL and

Emerson introduces cutting-edge tools to make the refinery safer and more efficient. At HMEL, says Das, all employees, including senior management, have undergone formal AI training.

Efficient operations

Under the MoU, Emerson and HMEL will explore co-developing a real-time industrial data platform to bridge the gap between HMEL’s operational technology and enterprise IT systems for improved connectivity, visualization and analytics of data related to plant activities and outputs.

“Industrial AI in these data platforms provides greater process visibility, improved analytics, predictive controls for optimal operations, and in some cases, autonomous capabilities,” explains Das. The partnership explores integrating Emerson’s dynamic optimization solutions and advanced analytics tools with HMEL’s existing distributed control systems that use sensors, controls and software to monitor and adjust refinery operations in real time. Emerson will further support HMEL with cloud-based analytics and advanced process management. HMEL has initiated enterprise-wide programs to embed AI and ML across production, planning, reliability, safety and energy management.

Looking ahead

The HMEL-Emerson partnership is more than just an example of successful automation. It also supports U.S.-India cooperation in critical areas like advanced manufacturing, demonstrating how innovation and partnership can create a better future for industries and communities. “Such collaborations can develop best practices for adoption of advanced industrial technologies and co-develop platforms that benefit the entire ecosystem,” Das says, adding that the United States and India are large energy producers and consumers. “The United States has many technology players in AI and automation, with whom advanced technology solutions can be co-created for energy transition.”