Montana Governor Greg Gianforte leads trade mission to India

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte is leading a trade and diplomatic mission to India to strengthen economic ties and expand markets for Montana industries. The delegation, consisting of over 30 members, represents sectors including agriculture, higher education, manufacturing, critical minerals, and advanced technologies such as photonics and quantum technology.

A primary focus of the mission is the export of pulse crops. Montana is the largest producer of lentils and chickpeas in the United States, while India serves as the world’s largest consumer and importer of these products. In 2025, India’s purchases of Montana pulses totaled approximately $14 million.

The trip has faced significant political backlash from conservative and MAGA supporters in Montana. Critics, including the Montana Freedom Caucus, have characterized the mission as a “junket” funded by taxpayers. Some social media criticism has also targeted the governor’s emphasis on university partnerships, with some users expressing opposition to the presence of Indian-origin faculty and students at Montana State University.