The recent politics of both countries indicates India and the US should be closer than they are. Both have issues with China and Islam, both leaders tend towards being autocratic, and Trump's flirtation with white nationalism mirrors Modi's flirtation with Hindu nationalism.
Recently India has come under increasing criticism for its decision in early August to revoke Kashmir’s autonomy and lock down the area, arresting thousands and cutting off phone and internet service to millions of people. But if Modi portrays that to Trump as part of a larger nationwide push to keep out Islamic militants, illegal immigrants and Chinese influence then Trump may view him as a hardass with much in common. Modi also has a reputation for getting things done that benefit ordinary people, such as building 100 million new toilets in 5 years in India and thus preventing disease and hundreds of thousands of deaths, and making India more tourist friendly.
On Trump's side, India is becoming way more important as the US pivots away from China. But in June the US cancelled special trade privileges that had allowed India to export certain goods with lower tariffs. India responded by slapping tariffs on more than two dozen US goods.The US and India are discussing ways to negotiate at least a partial trade deal. On top of that Trump's tough stance on immigration, including legal immigrants from India, has caused great angst, especially in Silicon Valley, which relies heavily on high-quality Indian workers who come on H-1B visas.
Modi is laying the flattery on with a trowel, and getting worldwide attention for it. Smart. It's in the US national interest for the flattery to work, and for the US and and India relationship to get stronger. A strong US/India relationship lessens Chinese power and influence.
