Modi Chooses Odisha Over Washington Invitation from Trump. During the recent G7 Summit in Canada (June 15-17, 2025), U.S. President Donald Trump extended a personal invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was scheduled to visit Odisha on June 20th. Trump suggested that Modi stop by Washington D.C. for a dinner and discussion on his way back from the summit. “Since you’re in Canada, go via Washington… let’s have dinner and talk,” Trump proposed. However, PM Modi politely declined the offer.
Odisha Visit: A Spiritual and Cultural Priority. Explaining his decision, PM Modi stated that it was important for him to return to Odisha, referring to it as the "land of Mahaprabhu" (a title for Lord Jagannath). He emphasized the spiritual significance of the region, underscoring his commitment to Indian heritage and culture. Modi added that while the U.S. visit was important, his presence in Odisha held deeper national and spiritual value at that moment.
Development Projects and Vision Document Unveiled. Modi was in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, to mark the first anniversary of the BJP-led state government under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, formed in June 2024. This was his sixth visit to the state since then. During the visit, the Prime Minister inaugurated 105 major development projects worth over ₹18,600 crore, covering key sectors such as drinking water, irrigation, highways, railways, and healthcare. He also unveiled the “Odisha Vision Document”, which outlines the state's ambitious plan to grow its economy to $500 billion by 2036 and reach $1.5 trillion by 2047. In addition, he flagged off a new railway service in Boudh district, introduced electric buses, and promoted infrastructure development as part of the government’s broader vision for Odisha.
Political Messaging and Diplomatic Nuances During his speech, Modi also criticized the Congress party, accusing it of ignoring tribal areas and branding them as “red corridors” for political reasons. He highlighted BJP’s inclusive development policies and respect for tribal communities. On the diplomatic front, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that Modi’s refusal of Trump’s invitation was due to prior commitments. However, Modi extended a counter invitation to Trump to attend a future Quad Summit in India. Modi also reaffirmed India’s long standing stance of not accepting third party mediation on bilateral issues, a point reportedly accepted by Trump during the G7 discussions. By choosing to visit Odisha over accepting a high profile U.S. visit, PM Modi reinforced his commitment to Indian cultural roots and grassroots development. The move blended political messaging, national pride, and global diplomacy, all while spotlighting Odisha’s rising significance in India’s economic and spiritual landscape.