Indians in Kuwait celebrate Independence Day

About 10,000 people gathered at the premises of the Indian embassy in Kuwait to celebrate India's 68th Independence Day Friday.

The celebrations were marked by a flag hoisting ceremony and singing of the national anthem. Ambassador Sunil Jain read out President Pranab Mukherjee's address to the nation on the occasion.

The ambassador emphasised that India-Kuwait relations have been historically close, warm and friendly. He commended the contribution of the Indian community in Kuwait's socio-economic development and in nurturing India-Kuwait ties. He extended his greetings to all Indians in Kuwait.

The ambassador also highlighted several measures taken by the embassy for the welfare of the Indian community. He announced the opening of an outsourcing centre at Abbassiya, Open House in the embassy on all working days and availability of embassy auditorium to various Indian associations for social and cultural activities.

In a cultural programme that followed, the Bohra community band played a variety of marching tunes to the delight of the gathering. This was followed by the singing of patriotic songs by members of various Indian associations.

Kuwait is home to more than 760,000 expatriate Indians. Their contribution as business persons, doctors, engineers, chartered accountants, technicians in oil and gas sector, construction workers, nurses and domestic workers is immense in the Gulf nation's economy.