Flag Hoisting Ceremony on the occasion of 78th Independence Day of India
The Embassy of India in Damascus held a flag-raising ceremony at the Embassy premises on the occasion of the 78th anniversary of India’s Independence.
The ceremony, which was attended by members of the Indian diplomatic mission, members of the Indian community, and Syrian cultural and artistic figures, included artistic performances by the Syrian Yoga Center and the Syrian Foundation al-Amal (Hope) for the Disabled.
Indian Ambassador to Damascus, Dr. Irshad Ahmad, said in his speech that he delivered during the ceremony that on the 15th of August, in all parts of the country and also abroad, Indians participate in the flag-hoisting ceremonies, sing patriotic songs, and distribute sweets. We realize that we are part of the chain that binds the dreams of those who participated in the struggle for freedom and the aspirations of those who will witness the nation regaining its full glory in the years to come.
Dr. Irshad Ahmad said: From 2021 to 2024, India has been among the fastest growing major economies, with an average growth rate of 8 percent annually. This has not only put more money in the hands of people, it has also drastically reduced the number of people living below the poverty line. As for those who continue to suffer from poverty, all efforts are being made not only to provide a helping hand to them, but also to bring them out of poverty.
He added: It is a matter of pride for all that India has become the fifth largest economy in the world, and we are also poised to become one of the top three economies soon. This has been made possible only by tireless hard work of farmers and workers, by the farsightedness of planners and wealth-creators, and by the visionary leadership.
“In Our society, women are considered not only equal, but even more than equal. However, they have also suffered from traditional prejudices. But I am glad to note that the Government has given equal importance to women’s welfare and women empowerment.
He added: The budget of allocation for this purpose has more than tripled in the last decade. Their participation in the labour force has increased. The most heartening development on this front has been the significant improvement in the sex ratio at birth. A variety of special government schemes have also been designed keeping the women at the centre”.
The ongoing period of the quarter century leading to the centenary of our independence, is going to be shaped by the youth of today. It is their energy and enthusiasm that will help the nation scale new heights. Cultivating the young minds and creating a new mindset that takes the best of the traditions and the contemporary knowledge is our priority. To this end the National educational policy , launched since 2020, has started showing results.
In India, we view science and technology as part of the quest for knowledge as well as instrument for humanitarian progress. The world of sports is another arena in which the country has made great progress in the last decade. The Government has rightly prioritized the development of sports infrastructure, and it is showing results.
In a statement to reporters, Dr. Irshad Ahmad stressed that the Indian-Syrian relations have been deep and strong for centuries and have been further enhanced after the defeat of terrorism in Syria, expressing his hope for the development and prosperity of bilateral relations.
Reported and Photos by : Nada Haj Khidr