California, USA: The United States officially inaugurated its fifth consulate in Bengaluru, India, on January 17, 2025, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties. The event was attended by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti, and Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

Currently operating from a temporary location at the JW Marriott Hotel, the consulate will eventually move to a permanent facility in East Bengaluru’s Whitefield area. The consulate will simplify U.S. visa processes for residents in Karnataka and neighboring states, eliminating the need to travel to Chennai or Hyderabad.

Bengaluru, a global tech hub, is home to nearly 700 U.S. companies, making it a strategic location for diplomatic engagement. Ambassador Garcetti and Dr. Jaishankar both emphasized the growing U.S.-India partnership, particularly in technology, space exploration, and defense.

In a reciprocal move, India plans to open a consulate in Los Angeles to enhance bilateral relations further. Tejaswi Surya, MP for Bengaluru South, called the consulate’s opening a historic milestone, which will benefit millions of Bengalureans by easing U.S. travel and visa processes.