“The Indian Diaspora Is Our Pride”: PM Modi in Trinidad and Tobago

GG News Bureau
Port of Spain, 4th July: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome as he addressed a vibrant community programme in Trinidad and Tobago, celebrating the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between the two nations. The event, attended by over 4,000 people, was marked by traditional Indo-Trinidadian performances and heartfelt gestures of unity.

In a historic announcement, Trinidad & Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar conferred the nation’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, upon Prime Minister Modi, honouring his global leadership and efforts to strengthen India’s diaspora bonds. Modi expressed deep gratitude for the honour, calling it a symbol of the shared heritage and friendship between the two nations.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi reflected on the 180th anniversary of the arrival of Indian immigrants in Trinidad and Tobago, describing the diaspora’s journey as one of “courage, culture, and contribution.” He praised the community for preserving its Indian roots and enriching Trinidadian society through its values, traditions, and spirit.

“The Indian diaspora is our pride,” Modi declared. “You have carried forward India’s heritage with dignity and dedication.”

As a symbolic gesture of deeper engagement, the Prime Minister announced that OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards would now be issued to sixth-generation Indian-origin citizens in Trinidad and Tobago—drawing thunderous applause from the audience.

Modi also reiterated his government’s commitment to the Girmitiya community—descendants of Indian indentured labourers—highlighting initiatives announced during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas to honour and connect with them globally.

Touching upon India’s transformative journey, Prime Minister Modi spotlighted the nation’s advancements in infrastructure, space, innovation, AI, quantum computing, and digital payments, noting that over 250 million people had been lifted out of poverty in the last decade. “India’s growth story is one of inclusion and aspiration,” he said, emphasizing that India is poised to become one of the top three global economies.

On UPI digital payments, Modi expressed hope that Trinidad and Tobago would soon adopt the Indian digital payment model. “India’s success in space and tech is global in spirit,” he noted, adding that India would always stand with T&T in its pursuit of growth and development.

The evening concluded with a mesmerizing cultural programme performed by artists from the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation and other local organizations, reflecting the shared legacy of art, music, and language between the two nations.