After signing a slew of executive orders on Monday night at the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump attended first inaugural Commander-In-Chief Ball and danced with First Lady Melania Trump. Earlier, the inauguration completed a comeback for a political disruptor who survived two impeachment trials, a felony conviction, two assassination attempts and an indictment for attempting to overturn his 2020 election loss.

India will be closely watching Donald Trump’s return to the White House, with significant implications for the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Trump is expected to continue his strong stance on trade, which could impact US-India economic ties. His protectionist policies, such as imposing tariffs and promoting American manufacturing, may lead to renewed tensions over trade agreements, particularly around technology and pharmaceuticals. However, Trump has also been a vocal supporter of India’s strategic importance, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where the US aims to counter China’s growing influence.

Confirming expectations of swift action on his first day, Trump announced a series of executive orders to be signed immediately, many centred on immigration.