Did PM Modi Really Praise India's Space Programme in Trinidad and Tobago?

Port of Spain, July 4 (NationPress) In a remarkable address in Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended India's space programme, emphasizing that the site of the Chandrayaan-3 probe's landing on the Moon has been designated as 'Shiv Shakti point'.

"As we speak, an Indian astronaut is aboard the International Space Station. We are progressing towards a manned space mission, 'Gaganyaan'. Soon, an Indian will set foot on the Moon, and India will establish its own space station," he stated while addressing the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago.

PM Modi also noted that India is sharing the “benefits of its achievements with the global community".

"I believe everyone here feels a sense of pride as India continues to grow. For New India, the sky is not the limit. You must have celebrated when India's Chandrayaan successfully landed on the Moon. The location of its landing has been named 'Shiv Shakti point'," he remarked.

He further praised the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago, referring to them as 'Rashtradoot' and as the “Ambassadors of values and cultures”.

"We hold the strength and support of our diaspora in high regard. With more than 35 million individuals worldwide, the Indian diaspora is our pride. Each of you is a Rashtradoot – an Ambassador of India’s values, culture, and heritage," the Prime Minister added.

He also highlighted: "This year, during the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Bhubaneshwar, Trinidad and Tobago’s President Christine Carla Kangaloo was our Chief Guest. Previously, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar honored us with her presence."

"At the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, I announced multiple initiatives to honor and connect with the Girmitiya community globally. We are tracing history and bringing people together for a brighter future. We are actively developing a comprehensive database of the Girmitiya community, documenting the Indian villages and cities from which their ancestors migrated, identifying their current settlements, studying and preserving the legacy of Girmitiya ancestors, and working towards organizing World Girmitiya Conferences regularly. This will further strengthen our deep historical ties with our brothers and sisters in Trinidad and Tobago," the Prime Minister remarked.

"I trust that all of you celebrated the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years... You sent Holy water and 'Shila' for the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. I also bring something here with a similar devotion. It is my honor to present a replica of the Ram Mandir and some water from the Holy Saryu," Mr. Modi said.

He emphasized that the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago is set to receive their Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards, asserting that they are not merely connected by blood or surnames; they are welcomed by India with open arms.

"Today, I am delighted to announce that OCI cards will now be issued to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago. You are not just linked by blood or surname. You are connected by belonging. India looks after you, India welcomes you, and India embraces you," Prime Minister Modi expressed.

He also mentioned that PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar's roots trace back to Bihar's Buxar region.

"She is regarded as the daughter of Bihar... Bihar's heritage is a source of pride for India and the world... Bihar has been a guiding light to the world in various fields for centuries. New opportunities will emerge from Bihar in the 21st century as well," he added.

The Prime Minister joyfully welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years, expressing profound faith and devotion towards Lord Ram.

Addressing the Indian diaspora, PM Modi stated, "We remember you sent holy water and Shilas for constructing the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya."

"I have also brought something here with a similar devotion. I have also brought a replica of the Ram Mandir and some holy water from the River Sarayu," he added.

PM Modi remarked, "The Ram-Leelas in Sangre Grande and Dow Village are considered truly unique. Shri Ram Charit Manas mentions, राम धामदा पुरी सुहावनि। लोक समस्त बिदित अति पावनि। This signifies that the sacred city of Lord Shri Ram is so beautiful that its glory is acknowledged worldwide. I trust you all celebrated the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years with immense joy."

"Prabhu Shri Ram states that the glory of Ayodhya springs from the holy Sarayu. Anyone who dips in its waters finds eternal union with Shri Ram himself," PM Modi noted.

"Earlier this year, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, the Maha Kumbh, took place. I have the honor of carrying water from the Maha Kumbh with me. I kindly request PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar to offer the holy waters of the Sarayu River and Maha Kumbh to Ganga Dhara here. May these sacred waters bless the people of Trinidad and Tobago," the Prime Minister added.

He shared: "I understand the narrative of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is one of resilience. The challenges your ancestors faced could have shattered even the strongest spirits. Yet, they faced adversity with hope. They tackled problems with persistence. They left the Ganga and Yamuna behind but carried the Ramayana in their hearts. They departed from their homeland, yet their soul remained intact. They were not merely migrants; they were emissaries of a timeless civilization. Their contributions have enriched this nation – culturally, economically, and spiritually. Just observe the impact you all have had on this beautiful country."

"Our connection transcends geography and generations," PM Modi emphasized.

The Prime Minister remarked: "Kamla Persad-Bissessar Ji – as the first female Prime Minister of this nation. Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo Ji - as the female President. Late Basdeo Pandey, the son of a farmer, rose to become Prime Minister and a respected global leader. Eminent mathematician Rudranath Capildeo, music legend Sundar Popo, cricket star Darren Ganga, and Sewdass Sadhu, whose devotion led to the creation of the Temple in the Sea. The list of achievers continues."

"You, the descendants of Girmitiyas, are no longer defined by struggle. You are defined by your success, your service, and your values. Honestly, there must be something magical in the ‘doubles’ and ‘dal poori’ — because you have doubled the success of this great nation!" PM Modi concluded in his address to the Indian community.

"During my last visit 25 years ago, we all admired the cover drives and pull shots of Lara. Today, it is Sunil Narine and Nicholas Pooran who spark the same excitement in our youth. Our friendship has only grown stronger since then."

"Benaras, Patna, Kolkata, Delhi may be cities in India. But they are also names of streets here. Navratra, Mahashivratri, Janmashtmi are celebrated here with joy, spirit, and pride. Chowtal and Baithak Gana continue to thrive here."

"I can see the warmth of many familiar faces. And I observe curiosity in the bright eyes of our younger generation - eager to know and grow together. Truly, our bonds extend beyond geography and generations.