NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's US visit will begin tomorrow. He will leave India today. The purpose of the visit is to expand bilateral relations between the two countries. The US is interested in making India a partner in NASA's 2025 Artemis mission to the moon. 25 countries are already taking part in the project.

India is interested in technology transfer in the defence sector. America is interested in arms sales. Modi's bilateral discussion with President Joe Biden will be crucial on these issues. Announcements are likely to be made in deals such as the sharing of advanced defence technology, the transfer of GE-414 turbofan jet engine technology and the purchase of MQ-9B armed drones.

The two countries will also sign contracts in the areas of trade and industrial cooperation, investment and telecom.

Yoga Day celebration at UN headquarters

After paying respects at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi on the north lawn of the UN headquarters tomorrow, Modi will lead a yoga practice attended by dignitaries as part of the International Day of Yoga celebrations. African-American actress and singer Mary Millben, known for singing the songs Jan Gana Mana and Om Jai Jagdish Hare, will perform in New York and Washington during Narendra Modi's visit.

Programs
June 20: Non-resident Indians will receive PM Modi at Andrews Airport, New York
June 21: International Day of Yoga at UN headquarters in New York. Will then go to Washington DC. Discussion on skill development programme. Private event with US President Biden.
22: Ceremonial reception at the White House in the presence of more than a thousand people, including the Indian diaspora. Bilateral discussion and joint announcement with President Biden.
In the afternoon they will address a joint session of the US Congress. Dinner hosted by President Biden and First Lady Jill.
23: Meeting with business leaders in America. Followed by a lunch hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken at the State Department.