‘India’s focus is humanity first’—at Pravasi Bharatiya event, PM Modi makes a case for ‘peace not war’

Modi underlined that India’s global role is rising because of its achievements in various fields.

“The world listens carefully to India. Today’s India makes its points very strongly. It also strongly raises the voices of Global South. When India proposed to make African Union a permanent member of the G20, all members supported it. India has been expanding its global role with focus on ‘humanity first’,” he said.

Recognising the history of Indian diaspora spreading across the globe and their achievements, Modi said it reminds India’s crucial legacy.

“There are many such interesting and inspiring stories of Indian diaspora which needs to be told, showcased and protected. This is our shared legacy and shared heritage,” said Modi.

He also referred to the stories of a few families of Gujarat, who migrated to Oman around 250 years ago stating that their “journey is quite inspiring”. An exhibition has also been organised at the convention venue on spread and evolution of Indian diaspora in the world with special focus on Mandvi to Muscat to showcase rare documents of people who had migrated from Mandvi in Gujarat to Muscat in Oman.

Modi also emphasised exploring the journey of Indian diaspora migrated to various countries centuries ago, citing the example of the Girmitiyas, the indentured labourers who left India in the middle and late 19th centuries.

“Why not create a database on Girmitiyas. Their journey from India’s villages and cities is need to be studied. The places where they settled should also be identified. We need to find out more about their life and how they turned challenges into opportunities,” said the Prime Minister.

He said films and documentary can be made to bring this (journey of Girmitiyas to the fore) and suggesting having studies and research on their legacy and holding regular conferences.

“I will tell my team to find out the scopes in this respect and to take this forward,” Modi said, also appreciated the contribution of the diaspora in the ongoing efforts to make India a developed nation by 2047, when India will complete 100 years of its independence.