Indian Passport renewal in USA, Worried about not getting the H1B approval letter because of govt shutdown

Hi Everyone,

My passport is expiring in September 2026, have to travel to India in December or January to get my H1B stamped. Before that I would like to get my passport renewed to avoid further hassles. My H1B got picked this year, but the issue is haven't got the approval letter yet because of the government shutdown. The passport renewal form asks for the approval letter, I don't know when will get it. Is there any alternative to approval letter document? Guidance is much appreciated.