Manohar Lal Engages With Indian Diaspora in Houston Ahead of G20 Energy Meet

Houston: Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal held a series of engagements in Houston on September 13 ahead of the G20 Energy Abundance Ministerial Meeting, highlighting India’s cultural ties with its diaspora as well as cooperation with the United States in environmental and advanced technology sectors.

Manohar Lal attended a Hindi Diwas 2026 programme organised by the Consulate General of India in Houston in association with the International Hindi Association’s Houston chapter.

Addressing members of the Indian community, the Minister appreciated initiatives aimed at promoting Hindi and preserving cultural connections between India and the diaspora.

At the Indian Consulate, Manohar Lal planted a tree as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. The activity also marked the commencement of Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 at the Consulate.

This year’s campaign theme, “Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat”, focuses on public participation and environmental responsibility.

The Union Minister also visited NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where he toured the facility and discussed possibilities for strengthening cooperation between India and the US in the space sector.

He thanked William T. Harris, President and CEO of Space Center Houston, for welcoming him and personally guiding the visit.

Later in the evening, Manohar Lal attended a reception hosted by the Indian diaspora at India House, Houston. Professionals, entrepreneurs, students, cultural representatives and members of regional associations participated in the event.

Consul General D.C. Manjunath welcomed the Minister and highlighted his interaction with the Indian community during his visit.

Members of the Haryanvi community, represented by HARIT, also met Manohar Lal. The Minister praised the longstanding people-to-people relationship between India and the United States and acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora to American society.

Manohar Lal is scheduled to participate in the G20 Energy Abundance Ministerial Meeting from September 14 to 16 in Houston.

The meeting will bring together G20 ministers and senior representatives to discuss energy security, affordability, accessibility and changes in the global energy landscape.

India’s participation is aimed at advancing international cooperation on secure, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy while strengthening its engagement with G20 partners.