"We certainly would like to see this deal concluded as soon as possible. And we, of course, have our own calendar in terms of elections and a legislative timetable. So certainly, I think time is running out to be able to give this current Congress the opportunity to consider this arrangement," State department Spokesman Tom Casey said in Washington.

Washington wants to see India conclude a safeguards agreement with the IAEA and secure the nod of the 45-member Nuclear Suppliers' Group before placing the deal for Congressional approval. With stiff opposition from Left parties, the Indian government has found the going slow in completing the processes needed for operationalisation of the deal.

There would be opportunities in future congresses and with the future administration to move forward on this, he said, "but certainly, we can only talk for ourselves and for this Administration in terms of this arrangement. Terming the deal as "symbolic" of the "tremendous positive change" in overall US-India relations, Casey said regardless of when the deal is passed the strengthening and deepening of the US-Indian relationship that has begun under Bush Administration will not change and "we certainly hope will continue into the future".

Asked whether he saw no chance of getting a Congressional nod on the deal bogged down by India's internal politics, Casey replied in negative.

"We certainly believe it is still possible for this deal to move forward and for our Congress to have an opportunity to consider it.... it ain't over till it's over."