Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, currently leading a trade mission to India, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as an 'inspirational leader setting an example for all around the world' on Wednesday, 7 October 2026. The remarks came as Gianforte led a 30-plus member delegation of professionals from higher education and advanced technology sectors on a visit focused on deepening India-Montana ties.

Gianforte on Modi's Leadership

Gianforte, who said he had just finished reading the book 'Power Within' about Modi's leadership, offered an effusive assessment of India's transformation under the Prime Minister. 'Prime Minister Modi is a global leader... I think Prime Minister Modi is an inspirational leader who is setting an example for all of us around the world,' he said.

He also congratulated Modi on completing 25 years of continuous leadership as a head of government — a milestone that spans his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat and subsequently as Prime Minister of India. Gianforte noted Modi's prominent role at the G20, adding: 'His leadership on the world stage and his commitment to the people... his taking a leadership role has really been remarkable.'

What the Trade Mission Covers

The Montana delegation is targeting several high-growth sectors, including advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, photonics, quantum technology, higher education, and investment. The mission also aims to create more stable market opportunities for Montana agricultural producers.

Gianforte highlighted what he described as deep structural parallels between India and Montana. 'India is an agricultural country, and Montana is an agricultural state. Yet both are distinguished by innovation and technology,' he said, describing the meetings so far as 'very, very productive.'

Gianforte Backs US Resolution Honouring Indian Pilot

On the sidelines of his India visit, Gianforte also weighed in on a bipartisan US House resolution introduced on Tuesday honouring Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who reportedly fought off an attack in the cockpit of a Flydubai flight on 30 September, helping save more than 174 people on board.

'He was attacked by his co-pilot, and literally the lives of every individual on that plane were in his hands... He is a hero, and it's appropriate to recognise him for his heroism. He set an example for the entire world,' Gianforte said, commending the US Congress for its action.

Broader India-US Context

Gianforte's visit reflects a broader pattern of US state-level delegations deepening engagement with India beyond Washington-level diplomacy. This comes amid sustained momentum in India-US strategic and commercial ties, with India increasingly positioning itself as a global hub for technology, manufacturing, and higher education partnerships. The Montana mission's emphasis on quantum technology and photonics also aligns with India's own stated priorities in emerging and deep-tech sectors.

With the delegation's meetings described as productive, formal announcements on specific agreements or collaborations are expected to follow as the trade mission concludes.