Remarks at ICC – 180th Arrival Day (04/05/2018)
The HCI and ICC are extremely happy to be part of the nationwide celebrations of the 180th Anniversary of Indian Arrival Day. In this regard, I would like to appreciate Shri Sunil Kumar Singh, our Director, ICC for taking this initiative to organize a cultural event to commemorate the Indian Arrival Day.
Friends,
There are about 31 million strong global Indian diaspora. These global Indians have become a “brand” synonymous with “Diligence, Excellence and indomitable human spirit to shine forth in all times, in all places and in all conditions.”
These global Indians are known for their professionalism, hardwork, community spirit, tolerance and above all “Law-abiding nature”. This has earned “Love and Respect” of not just Caribbean region but the entire globe. In some countries, they are the most preferred expatriate community.
Guyana
Indian diaspora in Guyana – who are generally called Indo-Guyanese are exceptionally exceptional. The Indian diaspora in Guyana who are now third or fourth generation in their adopted land, have made great contributions by converting the marshy water logged open fields into fertile and productive land along with their African brothers and sisters and others. Guyana has with your contribution created world class Demerara sugar and best rums in the world and converted Guyana into “Rice bowl” of Caribbean. The modern Guyana owes a lot to your contribution and you should be proud of your achievements.
Amazingly, you have preserved Indian culture in various forms through religious practices, food and cuisine habits though over time lost linguistic and family contacts from your ancestral land primarily owing to enormous distance involved and difficult physical connectivity. It is therefore befitting that on this occasion of Indian Arrival Day, we have thought of organizing this cultural event for you.
Friends,
Government of India under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi has been proactive in nurturing bonds that binds “Mother India” and her children in distant lands. GoI believes in infusing a new energy and vitality into this lasting relationship between Indian and diaspora.
GoI has only one Mission now : To re-make India into a Great Nation, a mission in which every Indian and equally overseas Indians have a vital stake.
India is going through a great transformation today. The Government’s slogan of “Sabka Saath – Sabka Vikas” which is translated into English “Together We Develop“ is meant for all including the global Indians and the entire globe. A range of social, economic and developmental initiatives have unleashed transformational possibilities.
There is a positive and upbeat business sentiment following PM Modi’s initiatives such as Make-in-India which is positioning India as a global manufacturing hub, “Digital India” transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge-based economy, “Smart Cities”, “Model Villages”, “Swachh Bharat” and “Clean Ganga Mission” which are transforming the nation to create a “NEW India” by 2022.
At this rate, I am proud to state, India is expected to overtake Britain and France to become the world’s fifth largest economy in 2018 and will become the third largest in 2032. Obviously a New India is taking shape.
I am sure Indian diaspora should be proud of such transformed “New India”. No doubt, India is always proud of its Indian Diaspora and its global citizens who are known for their “par excellence”.
In conclusion, I would like to thank you all for associating with us in the celebration of 180th Anniversary of Indian Arrival Day.
Please enjoy the cultural show!
Jai Hind!
Thank You.
*****
