The Indian Embassy in Washington has signed a 12-month, $1.8 million contract with lobbying firm SHW Partners LLC to enhance its outreach efforts with the administration of US President Donald Trump, according to public disclosures reviewed by Hindustan Times. The firm is led by Jason Miller, a former spokesperson for Trump, and was first engaged by India in April 2025. The agreement is aimed at strengthening communication and advocacy efforts in Washington amid evolving India-US relations.
Lobbying firms in the United States are commonly hired by foreign governments, companies and organisations to engage with policymakers, provide strategic advice and help communicate their positions on issues affecting bilateral ties and policy decisions. Jason Miller, founder of SHW Partners LLC, gained national prominence in 2016 when he served as Trump's chief media spokesperson during his first presidential campaign. He later held communication roles connected with Trump's political operations and remained associated with Trump's political messaging efforts.
His experience within Republican circles and familiarity with Washington's policy environment have contributed to his profile as a political communications strategist. The contract with SHW Partners comes at a time when India and the United States are seeking to deepen cooperation across several areas, including trade, defence, technology, energy and strategic partnerships. Both countries have maintained close diplomatic engagement in recent years, with regular high-level interactions aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation while addressing differences on economic and geopolitical issues.
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Under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), organisations representing foreign interests are required to disclose their activities, including details of contracts and payments. Such disclosures provide transparency regarding lobbying activities carried out on behalf of foreign governments and entities in Washington. The reported agreement between India's embassy and SHW Partners was made available through these regulatory filings.
The hiring of a firm headed by a former Trump adviser highlights India's focus on maintaining strong channels of communication with key decision-makers in Washington. Foreign governments often rely on experienced lobbying and public affairs firms to navigate policy discussions, understand political developments and engage with lawmakers and administration officials.
The $1.8 million contract will cover a year of services provided by SHW Partners, although specific details of the firm's planned activities were not disclosed. The arrangement reflects the importance placed by countries, including India, on strategic engagement in Washington as global issues such as trade, security cooperation and regional stability continue to shape international relations.
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