WASHINGTON D.C. (TIP): The Indian-American diaspora has played an important role in strengthening the India-US relationship, the country’s top envoy said here on Wednesday, January 26, a day after the Indian government announced Padma Bhushan civilian awards to three eminent Indian-Americans. “The diaspora has been an important pillar of the relationship, which continues to strengthen ties through its achievements in diverse sectors and contribute to India’s development journey,” India’s Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu told the community during a virtual celebration of the country’s 73rd Republic Day.

Addressing thousands of Indian-Americans, who joined the celebrations through various social media outlets, Sandhu said this year, three of the distinguished diaspora members had been conferred the Padma Bhushan – Madhu Jaffrey for popularizing Indian cuisine, Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai for their leadership in the technology sector.

“This is a matter of pride for all of us, as well as a testament to the strength of the community,” Sandhu said from the lawns of India House, the official residence of India’s Ambassador to the US, in Washington DC.

In his remarks, the Indian ambassador said the United States had been a key partner for his country.

“As Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi mentioned in his remarks at the Bilateral Summit with President (Joe) Biden last year, we are witnessing a transformative period in the India-US strategic partnership driven by tradition, talent, technology, trade and trusteeship. All of us are working towards realizing the full potential of this consequential relationship,” he said.

Observing that this year is special as the county celebrates the 75th anniversary of its independence as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Sandhu said India today is better placed to face the increasing challenges and complexities that the world encounters.

(Source: PTI)