U.S.-India 2014 and Beyond - Charting the Roadmap for Strategic Cooperation in Security, Trade, and Bilateral Relations

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The U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section in New Delhi (hereafter “Public Affairs”) is soliciting proposals for a cooperative agreement that meets the specifications stated below in Section II from nongovernmental organizations and other legally-recognized nonprofit Indian or American institutions that meet Indian and U.S. technical and legal requirements to develop and implement public diplomacy programs. Information about the Public Affairs Section can be found at: http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/. Section II. Program Title In the wake of the recently concluded Indian general election, the United States and India are auguring for a new era of bilateral relations. The Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi is inviting innovative proposals to help define options for the way forward in bilateral relations. The proposal should be strategically focused, covering potential areas of partnership including, but not limited to security, counterterrorism, trade, bilateral investment, energy, science and technology, environment, and education. The grantee would be required to identify and work with an American or Indian co-partner—policy organization, think tank, academic institution or trade body—to conceive and execute the proposal. The final selection of partner(s) will be approved by Public Affairs. A competitive proposal will bring together preeminent thought leaders, who are acknowledged leaders in their respective fields and already an integral part of enhancing the bilateral discourse. The organization should ensure an equal representation of experts from both countries in the project. Final approval will come from Public Affairs.The project’s target audience should include newly elected Indian politicians, senior U.S. government officials, government of India officials, members of think tanks, media, trade, academic and diplomatic communities as well as business and youth leaders. Topics for the project should include, but are not limited to, security, counterterrorism, trade, bilateral investment, energy, science and technology, environment, and education. The project should deliver concrete analysis that can lead to direct action by either or both governments. The grantee would publish the conclusions. All publications/research papers must be approved by Public Affairs before release. A core objective of this proposal is to create an influential platform for strategic thinking and strengthen already-existing networks between American and Indian think tanks. The grantee will develop the project’s agenda, invite and work toward ensuring participation of international and local experts, and manage all logistics related to any events. The implementation strategy, media releases, print and communication material including posters and banners, and overall tenor would be developed by the grantee in collaboration with Public Affairs. The project should include a robust media plan, including traditional and new media. The project should be amplified across the grantees’ social media platforms in collaboration with the U.S. Mission’s properties.

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