Indian diaspora has prospered all over the world: Naidu

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday hailed the contributions of the Indian diaspora, saying that they have made a mark all over the globe.

While addressing members of the Indian community here, Vice President Naidu said, "Wherever the Indian community has gone in the world, they have prospered, integrated well with societies and also brought name and fame to their motherland India. Share and care is the core of Indian philosophy. The entire world is one family. I am proud that the Indian diaspora is contributing to socio-economic development in Malta."

Vice President Naidu also informed that the government is taking several steps to connect with the Indian communities all over the world such as the introduction of the e-visa scheme, Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and foreign citizens residing in India.

Calling on the Indian community to not forget their country, the Vice President elucidated, "By availing such schemes, you will strengthen the bonds of your country of origin and the country of your ancestors. Always remember your motherland. Respect the laws here. But do not forget your roots. A resurgent India will always be with you. Never forget the motherland that has given you a great upbringing."

He further stated that the Indian community should feel proud of its cultural heritage, adding, "We never attacked other countries. We never believed in a colonial rule. We want to live in communal harmony. Geographical boundaries do not bind us. The Indian community enjoys the reputation of peace lovers."

Stressing on India's development story, Vice President Naidu said that the country is in a cusp of transformative movement and that the entire world is looking to India, as it continues to make great strides.

Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for "Reform, Transform and Perform", the Vice President added, "The Prime Minister is making everyone feel that they are a part of the developing story. We have taken so many steps like digitalisation of economy, financial inclusion, tax reforms like Goods and Services Tax (GST). Also, more than 326 million people have opened their bank accounts in the last four years."

Vice President Naidu underscored that the GST is to bring a revolutionary transformation in the taxation system. He added that the Serbian president had enquired him on its progress and also asked his ministers to study and propose GST in the country.

The Vice President further informed the Indian community that the government has taken some serious efforts to unearth black money, which will eventually improve economy and image of the nation.

He continued, "We have jumped 30 places in Ease of Doing Business rankings. Earlier, there was red tape, and now it is a red carpet. We are inviting all to invest in the country. All of them irrespective of those from different political parties, Chief Ministers are attending global summits, investors meet. This is because, they want investment."

Vice President Naidu also said that the country has witnessed a massive infrastructural development in the country such as improved roads, rail, air and port connectivities, telecommunications network and extensive health care system.

The Vice President added that Prime Minister Modi's Ayushmaan Bharat programme aims to cover 100 million families. He stressed that yoga and Ayurveda are becoming increasingly popular all over the world.

Vice President Naidu further said, "Many other programmes like Smart Cities, AMRUT cities, housing for all, Skill India, Startup India, Digital India and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan have been undertaken by our government. People from Africas and Americas are coming to India for treatment, making our country a health destination. Every city in India wants to have metro. Lots of activities and changes are happening now. India is now a land of opportunities for those who want to connect, innovate, trade and invest. India is the best destination."

Underscoring the importance of Indian community in strengthening ties between India and Malta, the Vice President further stated, "Take the message of Indian art, culture, ethos and tradition. The size of Malta is equal to my town. India is a huge country of 130 million. Size is not important, growth is more important. Despite being a small nation, Malta has experienced a good growth. India and Malta can have a long-term relationship. I hope that you all make efforts in making Malta and India grow together and make a prosperous future."

Vice President Naidu invited the Indian community in Malta to visit the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi. He went on to say that the High Commission in Malta, which opened last year, is a step to connect with the Indian diaspora.

After completing his engagements in Siberia, Vice President Naidu arrived in Malta on Sunday, where he will hold discussions with the Maltese leadership on Monday. He is also scheduled to participate in the India-Malta Business Forum meeting.