US Consul General Melinda Pavek announced that over 18 lakh (1.8 million) Indian visitors are expected to travel to the United States in 2024, emphasizing the importance of the US-India relationship and people-to-people connections. This announcement coincided with the inauguration of a new Visa Application Center (VAC) in Kolkata, designed to enhance efficiency with almost double the intake windows compared to the previous center. Pavek highlighted the collaboration potential in sectors such as technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and space exploration, facilitated by streamlined visa processes. Jeffrey Miles, the visa coordinator for the US Mission in India, noted that in 2023, US consulates processed a record 14 lakh visas, demonstrating a strong interest in travel and cultural exchange. The new VAC features improved accessibility and bilingual signage to assist applicants. Overall, this initiative aims to strengthen ties between the two nations amidst a surge in travel interest.