PM Modi Engages with 101-Year-Old Ex-IFS Officer During Historic Kuwait Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met 101-year-old former IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait at the request of Handa’s granddaughter via social media. This meeting marks the first visit of an Indian PM to Kuwait in 43 years, emphasizing the strong ties between India and Kuwait and recognizing the significant Indian diaspora in the region. Handa’s family expressed deep gratitude for the Prime Minister’s gesture, signifying the emotional connection between the leader and the expatriate community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a poignant stop during his visit to Kuwait, meeting 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Mangal Sain Handa at the request of his granddaughter. The meeting occurred shortly after PM Modi’s arrival in Kuwait, exemplifying his dedication to engaging with the Indian diaspora. Handa’s granddaughter reached out on social media, highlighting her grandfather’s admiration for the Prime Minister, leading to this heartfelt encounter.
During this remarkable occasion, Mangal Sain Handa’s son expressed immense gratitude, stating, “This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (my father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi.” This sentiment underscores the significance of the Prime Minister’s gesture, connecting generations and honoring the contributions of Indian expatriates.
This visit holds historical significance as it marks the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years, following Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1981. The trip is not merely ceremonial; it focuses on vital discussions surrounding trade, security, and regional ties. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the longstanding relationship between India and Kuwait, acknowledging the presence of a substantial Indian diaspora in the country, which constitutes about 21 percent of Kuwait’s total population.
The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kuwait represents a pivotal moment in India-Kuwait relations, heavily influenced by the large Indian diaspora residing in Kuwait. With over 1 million Indians living in the nation, they form a significant part of the local workforce, representing about 30 percent. Historically, Kuwaiti-Indian relations have been nurtured over generations through strong ties in trade, security, and cultural exchanges. The meeting with Mangal Sain Handa serves as a microcosm of this relationship, showcasing the high regard in which the Indian diaspora holds their leaders and the emotional connections that transcend age and distance. This engagement reflects India’s commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Gulf nations.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa highlights the importance of individual stories within the broader narrative of international relations. This encounter, facilitated by the granddaughter’s heartfelt request, exemplifies the Prime Minister’s commitment to honoring the contributions of Indian expatriates. Furthermore, Modi’s visit to Kuwait not only revitalizes diplomatic exchanges but also reinforces the ties that bind India and Kuwait, particularly through the vibrant Indian diaspora.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
