Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal engaged with the Indian diaspora and explored opportunities to deepen India-US cooperation in the space sector during a series of engagements in Houston on September 13, ahead of his participation in the G20 Energy Abundance Ministerial Meeting.
The Minister is in Houston to participate in the three-day G20 Energy Abundance Ministerial Meeting from September 14 to 16, where Ministers and senior representatives of G20 members are discussing energy security, affordability, accessibility and the evolving global energy landscape.
Manohar Lal joins Hindi Diwas celebrations
Manohar Lal attended a Hindi Diwas 2026 programme organised by the Consulate General of India, Houston, in collaboration with the International Hindi Association – Houston Chapter.
The event brought together Hindi enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate the richness, inclusivity and vibrancy of the Hindi language.
Addressing the gathering, Manohar Lal appreciated the efforts of the organisers and members of the Indian community to promote Hindi and strengthen cultural ties between India and the diaspora.
Tree plantation marks Swachhata Hi Seva 2026
During his visit to the Consulate General of India, Manohar Lal planted a tree under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative.
The plantation also marked the beginning of Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 at the Consulate. The campaign is being observed under the theme “Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat”, highlighting the importance of public participation and environmental responsibility.
Visit to NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Manohar Lal also visited NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where he toured the facility and held discussions on opportunities to further strengthen India–US cooperation in the space sector.
He thanked William T. Harris, President and CEO of Space Center Houston, for the warm welcome and for personally guiding him during the visit.
The engagement comes as India and the United States continue to explore cooperation in advanced technologies and space-related areas.
Interacts with Indian diaspora at India House
In the evening, Manohar Lal attended a public reception hosted by the Indian diaspora at India House, Houston.
The reception brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, students, cultural leaders and representatives of regional associations. Consul General D.C. Manjunath welcomed the Minister and appreciated his interaction with the Indian diaspora during his Houston visit.
The Haryanvi community, represented by HARIT, also interacted with Manohar Lal. The Minister highlighted the strong and enduring people-to-people ties between India and the United States and appreciated the Indian diaspora’s contribution to the economic, cultural and social fabric of both countries.
G20 Energy Abundance Ministerial Meeting
Manohar Lal’s engagements in Houston reflect the diverse dimensions of India-US relations, spanning G20 cooperation, cultural and people-to-people ties, environmental responsibility and collaboration in advanced technology and space.
From September 14 to 16, he will participate in the G20 Energy Abundance Ministerial Meeting, which will bring together Ministers and senior representatives of G20 members to deliberate on energy security, affordability, accessibility and changes in the global energy landscape.
India’s participation underscores its commitment to constructive international cooperation and to advancing solutions for secure, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy.
