NEW YORK CITY (TIP): India’s Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi praised the Indian diaspora at the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”, a program commemorating 75 years of India’s Independence, at the Indian Consulate here on September 8.

 “Members of the Indian diaspora are innovators, engineers and have contributed to the well-being of your adopted nation. That is the positivity of India which Indians bring together” the Minister said.

Ms Lekhi added: “We tend to assimilate ourselves in the societies we live in. We believe in working for the well-being of mankind and not cause disruption, which several other people do. India is for peaceful purposes, India is for the progress of mankind, India stands truly for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and that message is carried on by all of you. While India is innovating, India is trying to help the world and help itself and that is what Atmanirbharta’ and self-sustenance is all about. We have to ensure we meet our goal of building Aatmanirbhar Bharat when we celebrate 100 years of India’s Independence.” “I cannot thank you enough that when the world was battling pandemic and COVID-19, how the entire community across the globe stood together. India launched its own Atmanirbhar vaccine in January 2021 and “many skeptics talked against the vaccine and the result was that second wave (of the pandemic) took its toll. But before the second wave could take its toll, because we were stable and we had fought the first wave well due to timely lockdown and other procedures, we were helping the countries which were going through difficult times. At the same time when the second wave hit us, because of people like you across the globe we were helped by several other countries who we stood for, and they stood for us. We stand for friendship, we stand for goodwill, we stand for cooperation.” Meenakshi Lekhi posted on social media after the event – “Addressed the vibrant Indian community in New York and witnessed how deeply they are connected to their roots. Invited the diaspora to support and build a new India.” Earlier, the Consul General Randhir Kumar Jaiswal welcomed the minister.  “It’s a very special occasion because it is the maiden visit of Madam Lekhito New York as a minister. The Indian community here welcomes you in their own style, and their own colorful manner. There is a reason to celebrate – Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, with you being here. For us it is a privilege to have you here at the Indian consulate’, Mr. Jaiswal said. Representatives of various organizations and media persons were invited to the event which witnessed impressive Indian classical dance performances. Maithili Patel gave a performance of Kathak while Bani Ray impressed with the Odissi performance. Both the artists are associated with Sneh arts. Deputy Consul General Dr. Varun Jeph thanked the Minister and the guests.