In a notable move highlighting the evolving landscape of digital diplomacy, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has joined Truth Social, the social media platform owned by U.S. President Donald Trump. This development underscores the strengthening ties between the two leaders and reflects a strategic engagement in the realm of social media.
Modi’s Inaugural Post and Engagement
On March 17, 2025, Prime Minister Modi made his debut on Truth Social by sharing a photograph from the 2019 ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Houston, Texas, where he and President Trump addressed a large gathering. In his first post, Modi expressed his enthusiasm about joining the platform, stating, “Delighted to be on Truth Social! Looking forward to interacting with all the passionate voices here and engaging in meaningful conversations in the times to come.”
The Prime Minister’s entry onto the platform was met with a warm reception, quickly amassing thousands of followers. His engagement signifies an effort to connect with a broader audience, particularly within the United States, where Truth Social has a significant user base.
Interaction with President Trump
Shortly after joining, Modi responded to President Trump’s sharing of his recent podcast with AI researcher Lex Fridman. In his reply, Modi thanked Trump, highlighting the broad themes covered in the podcast, including his personal journey, India’s civilizational perspective, and global issues. He wrote, “Thank you, my friend, President Trump. I’ve covered a wide range of topics, including my life journey, India’s civilizational outlook, global issues, and more.”
This exchange underscores the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two leaders, reflecting their shared philosophy of prioritizing national interests—’America First’ for Trump and ‘India First’ for Modi.
Significance of Modi’s Presence on Truth Social
Prime Minister Modi’s decision to join Truth Social is significant on multiple fronts:
- Digital Diplomacy: By engaging on a platform closely associated with President Trump, Modi demonstrates a willingness to explore new avenues for diplomatic engagement and public outreach.
- Expanding Reach: Joining Truth Social allows Modi to connect with a predominantly American user base, potentially strengthening Indo-U.S. relations through direct communication with U.S. citizens and policymakers.
- Strategic Messaging: Modi’s presence on the platform enables him to share India’s perspectives on global issues, fostering a deeper understanding among international audiences.
Broader Context
Truth Social, launched in February 2022 by Trump Media & Technology Group, was created as a platform for free speech, particularly appealing to conservative voices in the United States. Modi’s participation brings a new dimension to the platform, introducing discussions on global issues, India’s development trajectory, and international relations.
This move also reflects Modi’s adept use of social media to engage with diverse audiences globally. His active presence across various platforms has been a cornerstone of his communication strategy, enabling direct interaction with citizens and leaders worldwide.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s entry into Truth Social signifies a strategic and symbolic gesture, reinforcing the robust relationship between India and the United States while embracing innovative channels for global dialogue.
