Much attention has been drawn to the decision made by the United States in inviting India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, for the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, but refusal of an invitation to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi citing security concerns. The following are some reasons why the U.S. took such a decision and stringent security protocols, and it proceeds to discuss the implications for India-U.S. relations. It explores previous instances of foreign dignitaries visiting the United States for inauguration, examines media reports, and gauges public sentiment. The article also focuses on S. Jaishankar’s visit to India and his agenda, with an emphasis on the potential for bilateral cooperation.