New York: As part of diplomatic tradition, Indian leaders customarily present symbolic gifts during official overseas visits. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released an official list of gifts presented by Indian dignitaries to senior United States leaders during the calendar year 2024.

According to the list, former US President Joe Biden received a Sterling Silver Metal Train Set, while former First Lady Jill Biden was presented with a traditional Kashmir Pashmina shawl. Prime Minister Modi also gifted a silver box depicting Lord Krishna Ras Leela to former US Vice President Kamala Harris. These items are currently preserved at the US National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).

The list further notes that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presented a Nataraja bronze statue to former US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. Additionally, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval gifted ceremonial items to Jacob, who was then an assistant to the US National Security Advisor.

Also mentioned are gifts exchanged in 2023, including a sandalwood box presented to both Prime Minister Modi and President Biden. Other items included a scarf, a wooden box containing saffron, tea powder, and an English translation of The Ten Principal Upanishads. While the non-perishable items have been preserved at NARA, perishable items such as saffron and tea powder were disposed of in accordance with US Secret Service protocols, the State Department confirmed.