Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) was named co-chair of the newly launched Congressional Study Group on India (CSGI), an initiative of the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC) focused on strengthening the U.S.-India relationship. CSGI, co-chaired by Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), becomes the fifth Congressional Study Group under FMC, joining those focused on Europe, Germany, Japan, and Korea.

The Congressional Study Groups are bipartisan, non-advocacy legislative exchanges that enable current Members of Congress and senior congressional staff to engage in substantive policy discussions focused on the United States’ key allies.  

“FMC has been working for years to establish CSGI, and we’re beyond excited to finally bring this timely project to fruition,” said FMC President The Hon. Barbara Comstock. “India continues to grow its influence and presence on the global stage, and as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific it is crucial we help facilitate a stronger relationship between the U.S. Congress and Indian government and civil society.” 

“India’s soft power—rooted in its traditions, democratic institutions and dynamic culture—offers practical solutions to many of today’s global challenges,” said Gurpreet “Sunny” Singh, founder of Roundglass, whose vision aligned with FMC in the creation of CSGI. “By elevating culture, civil society, and democracy alongside economic and strategic priorities, the Congressional Study Group on India creates a forum for results-oriented collaboration. This is about more than dialogue—it’s about unlocking the full potential of our partnership to create healthier, more resilient societies in both countries.” 

“I’m honored to co-lead this new Study Group on India, a pivotal partner for us on so many issues,” said CSGI Co-Chair Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC). “Representing the Research Triangle in North Carolina, I know first-hand how important it is to continue to build upon our already strong relationship, especially within the boundary pushing fields of R&D and education.” 

“India is a crucial partner in the region. A Congressional Study Group on India will play an essential role in building out and reinforcing the ties between us and our colleagues in New Delhi,” said CSGI Co-Chair Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA). “India has been a key player on the global stage for years, and it’s important we help strengthen U.S. collaboration and friendship with them. I look forward to working alongside Congresswoman Ross to open new dialogue between Congress and our counterparts in India.” 

FMC is a non-advocacy, nonpartisan group founded in 1970 and chartered by Congress in 1983. It is a voluntary alliance of Former U.S. Senators and Representatives, working to strengthen Congress in the conduct of its Constitutional responsibility through promoting a collaborative approach to policy making; and to deepening the understanding of our democratic system.

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