Muscat – India at 78: A Journey of resilience, progress and global good
Dear fellow citizens and friends of India,
As we celebrate the 78th Independence Day of India, it is a moment of immense pride and joy for all Indians, both in our homeland and across the world, including here in the Sultanate of Oman. This day marks not just the birth of a free nation, but also the spirit of a democracy that has withstood the test of time and emerged stronger and more vibrant.
India’s journey since 1947 has been nothing short of remarkable. From being a newly independent nation grappling with myriad challenges, India has transformed into the world’s fifth-largest economy, a testament to the resilience and determination of its people. Our GDP has witnessed robust growth and we are on track to become a $5 trillion economy in the near future. This economic dynamism is powered by diverse sectors, from information technology and pharmaceuticals to space exploration and renewable energy.
Today, India’s prowess in digital inclusion, mobile banking and Artificial Intelligence is setting global benchmarks, propelling us to the forefront of technological innovation and shaping the future of industries worldwide.
In healthcare, India stands tall as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’. We supply affordable medicines to over 200 countries, a lifeline in times of need. Our commitment to global health shines through our leadership in vaccine production and healthcare solutions, where innovation meets compassion, ensuring that no one is left behind.
India boldly explores space, making audacious leaps in scientific discovery. From the successful Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) to lunar missions like Chandrayaan, our scientists push boundaries and inspire the world with their discoveries in space science. With each mission, India asserts its prowess in space exploration, pushing boundaries and inspiring future generations to reach for the stars. And beyond!

Sustainability isn’t just a goal. For Bharat, it is a commitment.

With plans to achieve 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030, India is at the vanguard of renewable energy innovation and environmental stewardship. Our commitment to clean energy not only powers our homes and industries but also sets a global standard in combating climate change, safeguarding the planet for future generations. Democracy beats at the heart of our nation, a symphony of voices resonating across the land. In the recent parliamentary elections, over 600 million citizens exercised their right to vote, a powerful testament to our enduring democratic ethos. The successful conduct of the elections underscores our unwavering commitment to fairness and Jan Bhagidari or people’s participation, demonstrating the resilience of our democratic institutions and the strength of our collective voice. This event was truly a festival of democracy, celebrating our nation’s dedication as the mother of democracy.

India’s cultural tapestry weaves a mesmerising tale that spans continents. Our films and music resonate across the world, bridging cultures and hearts. The popularity of our culture reinforces India’s role as a global influencer and an ambassador of peace and harmony, where art transcends boundaries and celebrates the richness of human diversity.
Sports, a universal language, unite us in pride and passion. India’s recent triumph in the T20 World Cup has ignited celebrations nationwide, showcasing our sporting prowess and determination. Our commitment to sports development nurtures talent and promotes a healthy lifestyle, inspiring generations to pursue their dreams on and off the field.

Dear friends, as we celebrate this historic occasion, I am delighted to reflect upon the strong and enduring relationship between India and the Sultanate of Oman.
Our bilateral relationship has grown from strength to strength, marked by mutual trust and respect and propelled by shared objectives. The special year of 2023, highlighted by Oman’s participation as our ‘Special Guest’ at the G20 Summit during India’s presidency, and the successful State Visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to India in December 2023, has further cemented our bonds. This partnership is underpinned by a synergy in our developmental agendas under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
The cooperation between our nations spans various sectors, including trade, investment, defense, education and innovation, reflecting our shared commitment to progress and prosperity. Bilateral trade has surged, reaching over US$12 billion, and over 6000 India-Oman joint ventures in Oman with estimated investment of over US$ 7.5 billion continue to contribute to Oman’s economy and its march towards fulfillment of ‘Oman Vision 2040’.
At the heart of this robust relationship are the centuries old people-to-people ties. The Indian community in Oman, known for its law-abiding and peaceful nature, has contributed significantly to Oman’s development and continues to be a living bridge between our two great nations. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for his unwavering support and care for the large Indian diaspora in Oman.
As we look ahead, the future of India-Oman relations appears even more promising. Our shared vision and collaborative efforts will continue to drive growth, innovation, and prosperity for our people. We anticipate a future where our partnership will contribute significantly to regional stability and global progress. Let us continue to work together to build a brighter, more inclusive, and prosperous future for all.
I take this opportunity to wish, on behalf of the government and people of India, greetings and best wishes to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and the kind people of Oman for continued peace, progress and prosperity.

Jai Hind!