India for greater cultural ties with South Africa

India has underlined the need to strengthen bilateral relations with South Africa, particularly in the field of cultural and academic exchanges.  

Speaking on 'New Trends in India-South Africa Relations' near Cape Town, Indian High Commissioner to South Africa R K Bhatia called for greater cultural and academic exchanges between the two countries, which are linked by common history.  

The Indian community in South Africa has made significant contribution to the struggle for civil rights in the country.

Indians contributed to the African National Congress's struggle against the Apartheid regime.  

Bhatia presented 325 academic books, including '100 wonders of India' to the University of Stellenbosch, near Cape Town, to enhance cultural and educational ties between the nations.  

The Indian envoy was the guest of honour at an 'India Evening' celebration at the university on Thursday night.  

Raman Dhawan, the Managing Director of Tata Africa, awarded the 'Tata Africa Scholarships 2008' to 10 students of the university.  

"The Tata Africa scholarships are fully funded postgraduate scholarships covering the students' tuition fee, stipend, books and accommodation for the year of study", Dhawan said.  

He said the Tata Group was committed to skills development in South Africa and was proud to support the University by providing scholarships to students.  

The cultural programme on the occasion included traditional and contemporary Indian dance and music.

The dances were presented by French-Vietnamese dancer Gilles Chuyen and the artists of the Vadhini Indian Arts Academy, Cape Town.