PM Modi Engages with 101-Year-Old Ex-IFS Officer in Kuwait During Historic Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met 101-year-old former IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait at the request of his granddaughter on social media. Modi’s visit marks the first by an Indian PM in 43 years, aiming to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora and supercharge diplomatic engagements with Kuwait.
During his recent visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had the honor of meeting Mangal Sain Handa, a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer. This meeting was facilitated by a request from Mr. Handa’s granddaughter on the social media platform X, who expressed her desire for the Prime Minister to meet her grandfather during his interaction with the Indian diaspora. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi fulfilled this heartfelt request, demonstrating his commitment to connecting with the Indian community abroad.
Accompanied by other members of the Indian diaspora, Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with the esteemed former IFS officer was met with great gratitude. Mr. Handa’s son, Dilip Handa, expressed profound appreciation, 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 encounter not only honored Mr. Handa’s legacy but also underscored the Prime Minister’s willingness to engage with the Indian community across the globe.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit marked a significant milestone, being the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years, with the last one being made by Indira Gandhi in 1981. With a large Indian population constituting 21 percent of Kuwait’s total populace, the Indian diaspora plays a pivotal role in the workforce, making up 30 percent of the country’s total labor force. Prior to his departure, Prime Minister Modi articulated the historical ties shared with Kuwait, emphasizing the importance of mutual interests in peace, security, and stability in the region.
The context of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait includes strengthening diplomatic ties and addressing the needs of the Indian diaspora residing there. Given that approximately one million Indians live in Kuwait, their welfare is a vital component of India’s external affairs. Historical connections between India and Kuwait date back generations, and this visit aimed to reinforce those bonds, particularly in light of India’s commitment to trade and energy partnerships in the Gulf region. Moreover, it addressed the shared challenges and objectives for peace and security in West Asia.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait highlights not only a personal connection with the Indian diaspora but also reflects India’s ongoing commitment to nurturing relationships with the expatriate community. This visit served to reinforce historical ties, address key issues of mutual interest, and represent an important diplomatic engagement following a long hiatus since the last visit by an Indian Prime Minister. Through this engagement, both the Prime Minister and the Indian diaspora demonstrate the enduring strength of India’s connections with Kuwait and the broader Gulf region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
