US President-elect Donald Trump has announced key appointments to his upcoming cabinet, featuring several Indian-origin figures. Among them are Kash Patel, Tulsi Gabbard, and Vivek Ramaswamy, all of whom have drawn attention for their accomplishments and their open embrace of Hindu heritage.

1. Kash Patel: FBI Director Nominee

Kash Patel, a 44-year-old with roots in Gujarat, is set to replace Christopher Wray as the FBI Director, pending Senate confirmation. A loyal Trump ally, Patel has been a vocal supporter of the "America First" agenda. Known for his role in authoring the controversial Nunes Memo, Patel has championed reforms within federal agencies and expressed his support for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

In February, Patel criticized Western narratives for neglecting the temple’s centuries-old significance. “Whether or not you are Hindu or Muslim, there was a Hindu temple there that was toppled, and they have been trying to get it back for 500 years. Washington establishments conveniently forgot this part of history,” he remarked.

2. Tulsi Gabbard: Director of National Intelligence

Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, known for her deep connection to Hinduism and the Hare Krishna movement, will serve as the Director of National Intelligence. Gabbard has consistently emphasized her Hindu faith, carrying the Bhagavad Gita during her military deployment in Iraq and swearing her oath of office on the sacred text.

As a congresswoman, Gabbard advocated for stronger U.S.-India relations and supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives on the global stage. Her appointment reflects Trump’s intent to bridge diplomatic ties between the U.S. and India.

3. Vivek Ramaswamy: Head of the Department of Government Efficiency

Vivek Ramaswamy, a former presidential candidate, has been tapped to lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency. A vocal advocate for religious liberty, Ramaswamy has embraced his Hindu heritage while promoting universal values. He stated, “I’m Hindu, and I’m proud of that. My faith strengthens my commitment to defending religious freedom.”

Ramaswamy’s pragmatic approach emphasizes that his faith will not interfere with his duties. His focus remains on transparency and efficiency within the government, aligning with Trump’s broader reform agenda.

Additional Appointments

Trump’s cabinet also features other Indian-origin figures:

• Dr. Jay Bhattacharya: Director of the National Institutes of Health. While Bhattacharya, with roots in Kolkata, has not openly discussed his faith, his scientific expertise underscores Trump’s focus on revitalizing U.S. health agencies.
• Usha Chilukuri Vance: The incoming Second Lady, married to Vice President JD Vance. An Indian-American Hindu, Usha’s presence in the White House adds another layer of representation.

A Diplomatic Signal

Trump’s inclusion of Indian-origin leaders signals a strengthening of U.S.-India ties. The appointees’ embrace of their cultural and religious roots underscores a growing recognition of India’s influence on the global stage.

As Trump’s cabinet takes shape, these appointments mark a significant milestone for Indian-Americans, blending heritage, political influence, and policy-making at the highest level.