Washington, August 16: Indian Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, praised the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s development and the strengthening of US-India relations during a celebration of India’s 80th Independence Day on Saturday.
The event took place at the India House in Washington, where the national flag was hoisted, cultural performances were held, and young winners of painting and quiz competitions were honored.
In an interview with a news agency, Ambassador Kwatra remarked, “Today is a significant day for all of us, especially for the Indian community and the diaspora around the world, particularly in the United States.”
He further stated, “The past eight decades of our independence have been a remarkable story of success, and we are poised to achieve our goal of a developed India by 2047.” This vision aims for India to become a developed nation by the centenary of its independence.
Kwatra emphasized the central role of the Indian diaspora in this endeavor, highlighting their contributions to strengthening ties between New Delhi and Washington. “I want to congratulate the members of the Indian diaspora who have made remarkable contributions not only to India but also to the journey of India-US relations. A strong India leads to a developed India,” he said.
During the ceremony, Kwatra also read a message from President Droupadi Murmu, who acknowledged the role of Indians living both domestically and abroad in nation-building and enhancing India’s reputation on the global stage. She underscored India’s economic progress, digital infrastructure, and increasing physical connectivity.
President Murmu also stated that efforts are underway to ensure that the benefits of development reach marginalized sections of society. The event showcased the work of Indian-American children, whose paintings reflected India’s cultural traditions, technological advancements, and aspirations for 2047.
Ten-year-old Anvika Kajjam from Telangana won first prize in her category for her painting depicting a future India in 2047, which included her vision of a lush and technologically advanced nation alongside its freedom struggle.
Anvika shared with a news agency, “India will be green, and all animals will live peacefully. India is improving in artificial intelligence and developing more advanced technologies.”
Other children illustrated flying cars, robots, rockets, bullet trains, and lunar travel, focusing on education, employment, gender equality, environmental protection, and India’s traditions. One young participant depicted the old India with farmers on one side and the new India with artificial intelligence, cars, and rockets on the other.
Another participant expressed, “The subject of my painting was ‘Who is my Indian hero?’ In my eyes, my greatest Indian hero is my mother.”
The Indian-American community is one of the largest and most professionally prominent immigrant groups in the United States. Its members are increasingly making their mark in business, technology, medicine, education, public service, and politics. India and the US have enhanced cooperation in defense, trade, essential and emerging technologies, energy, and education, with the Indian community serving as a vital link between the two nations.
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