Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met Prince Rahim Aga Khan V in New Delhi, with discussions focusing on expanding cooperation between India and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in several key areas.
The two sides discussed potential cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, rural development, youth initiatives and women’s empowerment. The meeting took place during Prince Rahim’s week-long visit to India, his first visit to the country since becoming the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims in February 2025.
Following the meeting, PM Modi said he was pleased to meet Prince Rahim and recalled the contribution of his late father, Aga Khan IV, to development efforts.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the scope for strengthening India’s partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network, which has been involved in various social development and heritage-related initiatives.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V Begins India Visit
Prince Rahim arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday after being invited by Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan. His visit is scheduled to continue until September 15.
The visit is significant as it marks his first trip to India since he succeeded his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Prince Rahim’s visit is an opportunity to review ongoing cooperation between India and the Aga Khan Development Network and explore new areas of collaboration.
The discussions cover social development and heritage preservation, along with possible cooperation in community initiatives and broader development programmes.
External Affairs Minister Meets Prince Rahim
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also met Prince Rahim.
Their discussions focused on the work being carried out by the Aga Khan Development Network in social development and heritage preservation. Jaishankar also discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in India and other parts of the world.
The meetings reflect India’s continued engagement with the AKDN, particularly in areas where development programmes can have a direct impact on communities.
Prince Rahim’s Schedule in India
Prince Rahim is expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his visit.
He is also scheduled to travel to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Hyderabad, where he will visit community and development projects associated with the Aga Khan Development Network.
His itinerary also provides an opportunity to engage with members of the Ismaili community in India.
Why the Visit Matters
The Aga Khan Development Network has a long-standing presence in India, with its work spanning areas such as healthcare, rural development, education, economic development and heritage preservation.
For India, deeper cooperation with the network could provide opportunities to expand development initiatives at the community level.
For Prince Rahim, the visit is also an important engagement with India following his succession as the Aga Khan V. His meetings with India’s top leadership are expected to strengthen the relationship between India and institutions associated with the Aga Khan Development Network.
