Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed members of the Indian community and students in Oman at the Maitri Parv programme, beginning his speech amid chants of ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’, ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Modi, Modi’. The event also marked the 50th anniversary of the Indian schooling system in Oman.
Describing the gathering as a family celebration, the Prime Minister said, “Today, we have all gathered here as a family. We are celebrating our country, our Team India. Diversity in India is a strong base of our culture.” He added that India’s traditions bring new ideas and colours with every season, which is why Indians across the world respect diversity wherever they live.
Calling the overseas Indian community a model for harmony, Modi said, “The Indian diaspora has become a living example of co-existence and co-operation.” He noted the presence of people from different linguistic and regional backgrounds, remarking that he saw a “mini India” before him, with speakers of Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Gujarati.
The Prime Minister also highlighted global recognition of India’s cultural heritage. Referring to Diwali’s inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, he said, “Now, Diwali’s ‘diya’ will illuminate not just our homes but the entire world. This global recognition of Diwali is a recognition of our light that spreads hope, harmony and a message of humanity.”
Explaining the significance of Maitri Parv, Modi said it symbolised the friendship between India and Oman. He outlined the meaning of the word “MAITRI”, “M for Maritime heritage, A for Aspirations, I for Innovation, T for Trust and Technology, R for Respect and I for Inclusive Growth.” He said the festival celebrated shared history and a prosperous future for both nations.
Tracing centuries-old ties, the Prime Minister noted that India and Oman have shared close relations through maritime trade. “The Indian Ocean’s monsoon winds guided trade between our countries,” he said, adding that Indian traders once travelled by wooden boats from ports such as Lothal, Mandvi and Tamralipti to Muscat, Sur and Salalah. He expressed happiness that these historic links had been documented in a book compiled by the Indian Embassy.
PM Modi also underlined the growing role of education in strengthening bilateral relations. He referred to Oman’s participation in the ‘Bharat Ko Janiye’ quiz, which saw over 10,000 participants, and praised the contribution of Indian schools in the country. He acknowledged the support of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, saying the success of Indian schools, including Indian School Muscat, would not have been possible without the land and assistance provided by him.
Mentioning the ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ initiative, the Prime Minister said many students from Oman take part in the programme, which helps parents and children approach examinations in a stress-free manner.
Concluding his address, Modi spoke about India’s economic progress, stating that the country has remained one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world despite global challenges, with several large economies struggling to achieve even minimal growth.
