EGYPT

Celebrations of ‘ITEC Day’ by Embassy of India, Cairo, 15 March 2023

The 58th anniversary of Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme will be celebrated by the Embassy of India, Cairo by hosting ‘ITEC Day’ on Thursday, the 16th March, 2023.

Hon’ble Minister for International Cooperation Ms. Rania El Mashat will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest. During the event, Alumni who had attended ITEC, IAFS, CV Raman Scholarships and other training programmes in India from Egypt, will participate and share experiences of their training in India.

ITEC is a flagship cooperation programme of Government of India for extending technical assistance and enhancing capacity-building of its developing country partners. In the last few years, more than 1600 Egyptian have participated in these demand-driven and response-oriented training programmes. Under the ITEC programme, 200 slots are available every year for Egyptian nationals to undertake training in 54 Institutes of India offering courses in 280 disciplines which include Information Technology, public administration, audit, elections, entrepreneurship, rural development, parliamentary affairs, renewable energy, English language, banking, skill development and employment generation. Special training in fields like security, defence, counter insurgency etc., for defines personnel are offered by prestigious institutes in India like National Defence College and Defence Service Staff College.

‘ITEC Day’ serves as a platform to bring together Egyptian friends to reminisce and share their learning experiences in India and to further strengthen the close bonds of friendship between the people of India and Egypt. Source: Embassy of India, Cairo.

IRAN

Shri Rudra Gaurav Shresth appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Islamic Republic of Iran, 22 March 2023

Shri Rudra Gaurav Shresth (IFS: 1999) has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

2. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

IRAQ

Indian Embassy Celebrates International Women's Day in Iraq, 09 March 2023

Marking International Women's Day (IWD), the Embassy of India in Baghdad organised several events in collaboration with American University of Iraq, Baghdad (AUB) and Al-Mustansiriya University in Baghdad. On this occasion, an eminent Gandhian philosopher, Dr. Shobhana Radhakrishna, was invited to deliver lectures on "Gandhian Philosophy and Women's Empowerment". Her visit to Baghdad was sponsored by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) under the aegis of celebrations of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) and commemoration of the 70th anniversary of India-Iraq Friendship Treaty. Dr. Radhakrishna delivered her lecture on March 8 at the prestigious AUIB. President of AUIB, Dr. Michael Mulnix, faculty members and students joined the event and interacted with Dr. Shobhana Radhakrishna. She also visited the Gandhi statue in the AUB campus and offered her tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. The statue was donated by ICCR to AUB.

2. Dr. Shobhana Radhakrishna delivered another lecture on "Gandhi and Women's Empowerment" at the College of Political Science in Al-Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, on March 9, 2023. Faculty members and students joined the event and interacted with Dr. Radhakrishna. She also had an interactive session at the Embassy premises to a full-capacity crowd of women yoga enthusiasts and friends of India, besides members of the Indian diaspora. Dr. Radhakrishna spoke about Mahatma Gandhi's contribution to women empowerment by bringing out their strengths of courage, self-suffering and sacrifice against injustice and non-violent freedom struggle in India and South Africa and relevance of Mahatma Gandhi and his thoughts in contemporary times.

3. The Embassy organised. a special yoga session ' Yoga for Women' on the eve of IWD. A special full-page supplement on India on the occasion of celebrations of the 70th anniversary of establishment of India-Iraq diplomatic relations and also commemoration of IWD was carried in a widely circulated Arabic daily in Iraq - Azzaman newspaper. The page is available on Embassy's website and social media. Source: Embassy of India, Baghdad.   

ISRAEL

Raksha Mantri holds telephonic conversation with his Israeli counterpart; Highlights Government’s priority for indigenous defence manufacturing under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, 3 March 2023

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with Defence Minister of Israel Mr Yoav Gallant on March 03, 2023. It was the first talk between the two Ministers. The Raksha Mantri congratulated Mr Gallant on his appointment as the Defence Minister of Israel.

Shri Rajnath Singh underlined the Government’s priority for indigenisation and domestic manufacturing of defence equipment under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. He acknowledged the cooperation of Israeli industries towards nurturing a vibrant & world class defence manufacturing ecosystem in India and invited Israeli Industries to deepen their investments in Joint Ventures with Indian companies with an aim to identify areas for collaboration, particularly in niche technologies. He expressed pleasure at the signing of some important MoUs between Indian and Israeli companies during the recently concluded Aero India 2023.

The Defence Minister of Israel highlighted the positive role played by India in the region and conveyed his Government’s keen interest in enhancing the strategic partnership between the two countries. Both Ministers affirmed their commitment to further deepening of bilateral defence relationship under the framework of ‘Vision Statement’ adopted last year. Source: Press Information Bureau.

PM thanks Benjamin Netanyahu for Holi greetings, 8 March 2023

Replying to the Holi greetings of the Prime Minister of Israel H.E. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi tweeted:

"Thank you my friend, PM @netanyahu for your special Holi wishes. People all over India mark this festival with great vibrancy.

I also wish you and the people of Israel a happy Purim. Chag Sameach!" Source: Press Information Bureau.

Parliamentary Delegation from Israel calls on the President, 31 March 2023

A Parliamentary Delegation from Israel, led by the Speaker of Knesset, H.E. Mr Amir Ohana called on President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (March 31, 2023).

Welcoming the delegation, the President said that over the last 30 years, the diplomatic relations between the two countries have grown into a multidimensional strategic partnership.

The President noted that throughout their long history, the Jewish communities in India have maintained, and enriched their unique heritage and traditions. She said that the Jewish people have been - and will always be - an integral part of India’s composite society.

The President said that in India, Israel is well known as a key source of expertise in advanced agriculture and water technologies. Our collaboration in research and innovation has also boosted the ‘Make in India’ initiative. She was happy to note the success of ‘Centres of Excellence’ set up with Israeli assistance across India. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

JORDAN

India Tourism Event, 21 March 2023

Embassy of India organized an event on India Tourism on March 21, 2023 at Grand Hyatt, Amman.  The event was well attended by prominent members of Jordan Society of Tourism & Travel Agents (JSTA), representatives from Jordanian Businessman Association, Business and Professional Women Association, Jordan India Friendship Society, and media representatives.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Suhail Halaseh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of JSTA thanked the Embassy for organizing the event and showcasing India’s potential as a tourism destination. He also mentioned about the importance of operating a direct flight between India & Jordan which will further enhance trade and tourism between the two countries.

His Excellency Mr. Anwar Haleem, Ambassador of India to Jordan in his address remarked that tourism is an extremely important ingredient for the economic development and growth of any nation and Jordan realizes it best like India. He stated that India offers geographical diversity, world heritage sites and niche tourism products like cruises, adventure tourism, medical tourism, yoga tourism, wild-life and luxury tourism. He added that there is a growing interest in India's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty among foreign tourists. India’s earnings from tourism account for 5.8% of the GDP and the goal is to raise it to 7.5% of the GDP by 2030. As per World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2021, India is currently ranked 54th in the world but tops the ranking within South Asia. Also, National Geographic Channel has listed Kerala backwaters among the 50 destinations of a life time.

Further, Ambassador pointed that in the last decade or so, India has built extensive and comprehensive tourism infrastructure worth approximately $1bn to improve tourist experience by funding the development of destinations, circuits, mega projects as well as rural tourism infrastructure projects. Government initiatives such as the "Incredible India" campaign, setting up of tourism boards at national and state levels to promote tourism and attract investments, visa liberalization and e-visa facilities for foreign tourists augurs well for India Tourism to grow in the coming years. Ambassador also highlighted the growth and potential of medical tourism in India and called for integration of India & Jordan tourism for better results for both the countries.

The meet also discussed ways to boost tourism and was followed by an open interactive session, wherein, Mr. Faisal Rafouh, President of Jordan-India Friendship Society and former Minister of Culture of Jordan, Mr. Michel Nazzal, Treasurer, Jordanian Businessman Association, representatives of Jordanian travel & tour companies shared their experience and ideas for furthering the cooperation in the tourism sector. Source: Embassy of India, Amman.

KUWAIT

Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi virtually inaugurates Festival of India in Kuwait on 17th March, 20 March 2023

The inaugural event of “Festival of India” in the state of Kuwait on 17 March 2023 was virtually inaugurated by  Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi. Addressing the gathering, she highlighted the strong historical relationship between India and Kuwait and also appreciated the ongoing cultural exchange between India and Kuwait. She emphasized that the Festival of India in Kuwait will strengthen the vibrant cultural ties between the two countries.

The highlight of the Festival was the performance by renowned Indian cultural troupes sent by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The three troupes who performed at the Festival were; (i) Qutbi Brothers – Qawwali performance, (ii) Hasan Khan and Group -  Rajasthani Folk, and (iii) The Anirudh Varma Collective – Fusion of Indian classical and contemporary music. The troupes presented a picture of India’s syncretic civilization with their performances drawn from diverse regions, cultures and religions of India.

Festival of India was organized in the State of Kuwait from 17-18 March 2023 by the Embassy of India, Kuwait under the aegis of Ministry of Culture, Government of India. This was the first Festival of India abroad held by the Ministry of Culture following the Covid-19 Pandemic. The festival was supported by the Ministry of Information and Culture, Government of State of Kuwait and National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), the Government of State of Kuwait. The Finale event was organized at the Dar Al Athar Islamiya (DAI), Yarmouk Cultural Centre on 18 March 2023. The event was well attended by Kuwaiti friends and Indian community.

Alongside the cultural performances, the Embassy of India, Kuwait organized ‘Incredible India – Tourism Exhibition’ and the Indian Coffee tasting event for the Kuwaiti friends and diplomatic community on 18 March 2023. Source: Press Information Bureau.

OMAN

Embassy of India Celebrates International Women's Day with an Exclusive Event, 'The Diaspora Diva', 08 March 2023

The Embassy of India in Muscat celebrated International Women's Day with an exclusive event titled 'The Diaspora Diva.' More than 100 Indian diaspora women attended the function on the evening of 7th March 2023.

Ms. Divya Narang, the spouse of H.E  Shri Amit Narang, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, gave the welcome address. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Divya Narang said, "International Women's Day is an occasion to celebrate the achievements of women and recognize their contributions to society. The Diaspora Diva is a tribute to the Indian women in Oman, who have significantly contributed to the country's progress and development."

The event's highlight was a panel discussion moderated by Ms. Divya Narang, in which three panellists participated. The panellists included Ms.Vaishali Jesrani, the Oman Women's Cricket Team captain, Ms. Lakshmi Kothaneth, a senior journalist at the Oman Observer, and Ms. Papri Ghosh, principal of Indian School Al Ghubra. The panel discussion focused on various aspects of women's role in society, including in sports, education, and journalism. The panellists shared their experiences and discussed the challenges and opportunities for women in Oman.

A specially curated exhibition of artwork by diaspora women added colour to the event. The artwork showcased the creativity and talent of Indian women in Oman. Ms. Tarini Agrawal, Ms. Poornima Subramanian, Ms. Naina Purecha, and Dr. Kavitha Ramakrishna exhibited exquisite artwork. Meanwhile, the incredible 'Yarn Knot Alone Muscat' team exhibited products like beanies, blankets, and knitted breasts used by lactation consultants, which they make and distribute to four Major government hospitals in Muscat.

A mesmerizing Kathak performance by the 'Leelangika' group, representing womanhood in all its forms, provided a visual treat to the audience.

The event was a celebration of women's empowerment and their contributions to society. The Embassy of India in Muscat is committed to supporting women's rights and promoting gender equality. The Diaspora Diva was a step towards achieving this goal and inspiring women to reach greater heights in their respective fields. Source: Embassy of India, Muscat.

QATAR

Visit of Minister of State for External Affairs, Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh to Doha, Qatar (March 06-07, 2023), 4 March 2023

Minister of State for External Affairs and Education, Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh will be visiting Doha, Qatar from 06-07 March 2023 to attend the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries(LDC5). LDC5 is a decennial conference focusing on renewed partnerships for the development of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

On 06 March 2023, MOS will deliver India’s National Statement and will be a panellist in the Round Table titled "Leveraging the power of Science and Technology and innovation for the sustainable development of LDCs”. MOS is also participating in the Ministerial Meeting of South-South Cooperation on the topic, "Renewed Partnerships for actionable solutions in support of implementation of the Doha Programme of Action” on 07 March 2023.

On the sidelines of LDC5, MOS will have several bilateral engagements with his counterparts, especially from LDCs and will host a working lunch for partner countries from Africa and interact with the Indian diaspora. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

SAUDI ARABIA

International Women’s Day 2023, 21 March 2023

The Embassy of India, in association with other diplomatic missions based in Riyadh, celebrated International Women's Day on March 8, 2023. The event had enthusiastic participation from diplomatic community, Saudi nationals, journalists, members of the Indian community and expatriates of other nationalities. Ambassadors of Sri Lanka, Cuba, South Africa, Lebanon, Gambia, Algeria, Vietnam, EU etc. graced the occasion.

2. The event was moderated by Mrs. Vijayalakshhmi N. Ram Prasad who traced the history of Women Empowerment in India after Independence. She also highlighted various government schemes to increase participation of Women in India in Education and Economic fields.

3. The event started with speeches and panel discussions by prominent speakers and panellist from India, Saudi Arabia and Australia. The speakers and panellists included, Mrs. Salma Naz Parwar Khan, educationalist and retired Principal from Kendriya Vidyalaya in India, Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai, Chancellor of Rai Group of Universities and Founder of ALL (All Ladies League) and WEF (Women Economic Forum), Mrs. Smitha Ramesh, nutritionist and Ms. Shushma Shan, a life coach and motivational speaker. They spoke about status of women in India and the contribution of Indian women in all walks of life, including economic activities and political landscape. Ms. Noor Nugali, Asst. Editor-in-chief of prominent English daily, Arab News spoke about the social transformation taking place in Saudi Arabia and growing participation of women in the economic activities. Mrs. Sofia Connelly, First Secretary, Embassy of Australia in KSA spoke about “Women in leadership position” in the Australian Foreign Ministry.

4. The event also included variety of colourful cultural performances. Indian students from various schools presented a number of classical and popular cultural performances, including on nari shakti. School students from Sri Lanka presented cultural performances depicting cultural diversity of their country. A singer from Philippines presented songs. Ladies from the Indian Embassy also presented a fashion show, deprecating rich cultural diversity from states like UP, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Bihar and Jharkhand.

5. An Art exhibition depicting various themes of lady painters from India and Philippines was showcased. Sari and Indian costumes were also displayed. In keeping up the theme of International Year of Millets, a Millet corner was set up and guests were served Millet based snacks. Sri Lankan and Philippine Embassy also served delicacies from their countries.

6. Ambassador Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan presented mementos and certificates to all the participants.

7. The International Women's Day is celebrated by promoting 'Nari Shakti’ and to recognize exceptional work undertaken towards women empowerment. This day is marked every year by celebrating women's achievements, focusing on elimination of gender-based violence and discrimination along with adopting innovative approaches to bring changes to the social, political, economic and cultural empowerment of women. Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh.

Visit of CEO, Saudi Space Commission to India, 21 March 2023

A high-level delegation of Saudi Space Commission headed by Dr. Mohammed Saud Al-Tamimi, CEO, and a technical team comprising officials from the Saudi Space Commission visited India from March 6 to 10. During the visit, the Saudi side held wide ranging discussions with various entities in India.

At the ISRO Headquarters, Dr. Al-Tamimi met with the Indian side headed by Mr Somanath S, Chairman ISRO/Secretary, Department of Space. Dr. Al-Tamimi also met with Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and visited the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC). The delegation also visited Indian Institute of Space Sciences and Technology. The delegation also met with some of the Indian companies involved in the space sector like New Space India Limited, Centum Electronics etc.

The technical team, separately visited the National Remote Sensing Centre.

Space cooperation is one of the important areas of engagement between India and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and such visits will pave the way for a further deepening of India-Saudi space cooperation.

Chairman ISRO/Secretary, Department of Space also extended a warm invitation to CEO, Dr Al-Tamimi for the G20 Space Economy Leaders Meeting scheduled in July 2023 at Bengaluru. Dr Al-Tamimi also invited Chairman ISRO/Secretary, Department of Space to participate in the Space Economy Forum planned during the end of this year in Saudi Arabia. Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh.

Eight aircraft of Indian Air Force landed at a Royal Saudi Air Force base, 22 March 2023

In a historic first, eight aircraft of Indian Air Force landed at a Royal Saudi Air Force base on 26 February heralding a new chapter in the defence relationship between the two countries. The Indian contingent comprising 145 Air Warriors with its complement of 05 MIRAGE, 02 C17 and 01 IL 78 tanker had an overnight halt in the Kingdom. On its arrival, the Indian contingent was received by senior RSAF officials, Indian Ambassador Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan, Defence Attaché Col G. S. Grewal along with Indian Embassy officials. On 27 February the Contingent left for participating in the forthcoming Cobra Warrior 23 Exercise in the UK.

Ambassador Dr Khan during his address to the Air Warriors highlighted the growing relations between India and Saudi Arabia. He emphasized on the importance of Military diplomacy as an important aspect of bilateral relations and the stellar role played by our Air Warriors in the same.

Ambassador Dr Khan and Contingent Commander also had a formal interaction with the Base Commander of the Royal Saudi Air force which was followed by an exchange of mementos. The Ambassador thanked the Base Commander and his staff for all the support extended to the Indian Contingent. The Base Commander welcomed the Indian Air Warriors and wished them all the best for the forthcoming Cobra Warrior 23 exercise.

The Ambassador also had an informal interaction with the contingent members during a reception organized by the Embassy in the evening. The crew members shared their operational experiences and planning for the forthcoming exercise. Many of the Air Warriors had recently participated in Operation Dost, providing relief and support to earthquake-hit Türkiye and Syria. Defence relations between India and Saudi Arabia have made significant progress in last few years. Recently a large delegation from the Saudi side also participated in Aero India Show in Bengaluru. Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh.

Secretary (CPV & OIA)’s consultations in Saudi Arabia, 22 March 2023

During his visit to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Secretary (CPV & OIA) Dr. Ausaf Sayeed has held the 1st India-GCC Senior Officials Meeting and various bilateral meetings with Saudi dignitaries.

Secretary (CPV & OIA) held consultations with Saudi Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Eng. Waleed bin Abdul Kareem El-Khereiji on 20 March 2023 on the Political-Security-Social-Cultural pillar of India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC). They positively assessed the continued high-level contacts between both countries. EAM and Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister had earlier reviewed bilateral relations on the sidelines of G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on 03 March.

On 21 March, Secretary (CPV & OIA) discussed the progress made under the Committee on Economy and Investment of the SPC with Dr. Faisal Al-Sugair, President and CEO, Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnerships (SCISP). Both sides agreed to make further progress on priority opportunities identified under the Committee including in areas such as renewable energy, grid connectivity, pharmaceuticals, food security, IT, fintech and water resources.

Earlier, on 19 March, Secretary (CPV & OIA) had met Deputy Minister for International Partnerships in Saudi Ministry of Investment, Mr. Mohammad Al Hassnah and discussed opportunities of bilateral investment exchanges. Both sides deliberated on forming an investment bridge for accelerating the pending investment projects and facilitating investors.

Secretary (CPV & OIA) called on the Saudi Minister for Hajj & Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah on 22 March. He thanked the Saudi Minister for the allocation of a Haj quota of 1,75,025 for India for 2023. He also reiterated an invitation to him to visit India at his earliest convenience. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia inaugurates direct flight between Indore and Sharjah, 31 March 2023

Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia along with MoS Ministry of Civil Aviation, Gen. Dr Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.) inaugurated a direct flight between Indore and Sharjah today.

This new route will enhance connectivity with the Middle East and promote trade, commerce and tourism in Madhya Pradesh. It will operate three days a week commencing from 31st March 2023 as per the following schedule:  

In his inaugural address, Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia said that after Indore to Dubai, Indore to Sharjah will be Indore’s second air connectivity with UAE. This will not only boost trade and commerce but also connect families living in two different countries.

Speaking on connectivity and infrastructure development, Shri Scindia said that in 2013-14, Indore was connected to only 6 destinations. In the 9 years of PM Modi's government, it has increased to 24 including 2 international destinations which is a 400% growth. Earlier, weekly air traffic movement from Indore was 320 which has now increased to 500 which is a 52% growth.

The Minister further said that in 2014, the state of Madhya Pradesh had air connectivity with only eight cities of the country, but now it is connected to 26 cities which is a 300% growth. The weekly air traffic movement from the state was 500 aircraft; in 9 years it has increased to 840. Madhya Pradesh was given 60 routes under the RCS UDAN scheme, 33 of them are already operational and 12 will be operational soon.  Recently, Reva airport’s foundation was laid- Rs. 50 crores will be invested in its development. In Gwalior, a new integrated terminal building is being developed at a cost of Rs 500 crore. A new integrated terminal building costing around Rs 475 crore is being developed in Jabalpur also.

Shri Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, AirAsia India and Captain Manish Uppal, Head of Operations AirAsia India were present during the event. Source: Press Information Bureau.

GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL

First India-GCC Senior Officers Meeting (SOM), 20 March 2023

The first round of India-GCC SOM was held on 20 March 2023 in Riyadh. The Indian delegation was led by Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary(CPV&OIA) while the GCC delegation was led by Dr. Abdul Aziz Bin Hamad Al-Owaishaq, Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Negotiations, GCC. The meeting had participation from all the 6 member countries of GCC. The India-GCC SOM meeting was held pursuant to MOU signed on India-GCC Mechanism of Consultation during EAM’s visit to Riyadh in September 2022.

2.​ Both sides conveyed happiness over the progress in trade and investment between India-GCC countries. Both sides agreed for an early finalisation of India-GCC Free Trade Agreement(FTA).

3. Secretary(CPV&OIA) invited for more collaboration between India and GCC countries in renewable energy, food security, health, IT sector and counter terrorism. Both sides proposed formation of Joint Working Groups to cater to particular areas of cooperation between India and GCC countries. These joint working groups would be headed by experts and would ensure regular and continuous progress across priority sectors.

4.​ Both sides appreciated the progress in relations between India-GCC countries built on historical ties, coupled with growing trade and investment, and presence of approximately 8.5 million Indian diaspora in the region. GCC as a trade bloc is the largest trade partner to India with a total trade of USD 154 Billion in FY 2021-22 They agreed that people to people ties need to be further enhanced. The discussion also focused upon regional issues of importance.

5.​ Both sides looked forward for early convention of India-GCC TROIKA meeting at Foreign Minister level. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

LOK SABHA QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 285, 17 March 2023

LOK SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-2905, ANSWERED ON- 17/03/2023, INDIAN MIGRANT WORKERS

2905.  SHRI RAJAN VICHARE

SHRI S. VENKATESAN

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) the number of Indian migrant workers who returned from foreign countries between June 2020 to till date, country-wise;

(b) the number of people who left India to work in Gulf countries during the said period, country wise;

(c) whether the Government has conducted an assessment of job losses suffered by Indians abroad during the COVID-19 crisis; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, whether the Government has any plans to conduct such an exercise?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a to d) Comprehensive figures for return of Indian migrant workers from all foreign countries are not available. The nature of movement of workers, especially to countries that fall under the Emigration Clearance Not Required (ECNR) category, is such that accurate tracking is very difficult.

2. Insofar as Indians who left to work in Gulf countries are concerned, the figures as available from e-Migrate portal for the period 1 June 2020 to 8 March 2023 are as follows:

3. During the pandemic, it was the Government’s priority to ensure that its impact on Indian workers in terms of loss of employment was mitigated. To that end, the Ministry and all our Missions in the Gulf were continuously engaged with the Government of the Gulf nations to maintain the workers, ensure their welfare and facilitate financial payments due to them.

4. To facilitate the employment of Indian workers abroad, and to safeguard their interests, the Ministry has entered into Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) and Labour Manpower Agreements (LMAs) with the governments of Gulf cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates). Further, to safeguard the specific interest of domestic workers in GCC Countries, agreements on Labour Cooperation for Domestic Sector have been signed with Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait. Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 4855, 31 March 2023

LOK SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-4855, ANSWERED ON- 31/03/2023, ENGINEERS WORKING IN KUWAIT

4855. ADV. A.M. ARIFF

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) whether the Government has noticed that vast majority of the Indian Engineers working in Kuwait would lose their job due to the insistence of the Kuwait Society of Engineers on NBA accreditation for the engineering courses pursued by Indian Engineers and if so, the details thereof and action taken thereon;

(b) whether the Government has taken any steps to find an amicable solution to the matter protecting the interests of Indian Engineers in discussion with the relevant authorities in Kuwait, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the number of Indian Engineers working in Kuwait, who graduated from NBA accredited as well as non-NBA accredited institutions, before and after 2012 separately?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a) The Government is aware of certain difficulties being faced by some Indian engineers in Kuwait on account of non-issuance of NOCs by Kuwait Society of Engineers (KSE) in respect of engineers who have passed out of non-NBA accredited institutes.

(b) Government of India has been actively pursuing the matter since March 2018 when Public Authority of Manpower of Kuwait vide its notification made the requirement of obtaining No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Kuwait Society of Engineers for renewal of residencies of expatriate engineers mandatory. The issue has been raised at high levels during the course of bilateral engagements with the State of Kuwait.

Ministry of External Affairs had facilitated the visit of a delegation from Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower and Kuwait Society of Engineers to Delhi in June 2018. The delegation had met officials in Ministry of Human Resource Development, UGC, AICTE and NBA. Subsequently, based on a mechanism of regular meetings between Embassy of India, Kuwait and the KSE, a number of cases were resolved.

Government has also constantly clarified to the Kuwaiti side, including through sustained engagement in recent months, that universities/technical institutions in India require University Grants Commission (UGC)/All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) approval, as applicable. Accreditation, including National Board of Accreditation and National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), is not mandatory. A comprehensive list of non-NBA premier institutes {top National Institutional Ranking Framework(NIRF) ranked technical institutes and NAAC approved technical institutes under the purview of AICTE} and ‘Institutes of National Importance’ in India has also been shared with Kuwaiti authorities.

Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Education continue to work with NBA, UGC and AICTE to effectively pursue the issues related to accreditation of Indian engineers in Kuwait. NBA is working with non-accredited Indian Institutes whose Engineers/professionals are working in Kuwait for their faster accreditation. These Institutions are pursued to apply for accreditation of their programs and their applications for accreditation are processed by NBA on priority basis.

c) The specific data is not available. However, during a recent online registration drive conducted by the Embassy of India, Kuwait in December 2022, around 5500 Indian engineers in Kuwait registered. Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 421, 31 March 2023

LOK SABHA, STARRED QUESTION NO. 421 ANSWERED ON 31.03.2023, AID TO TURKEY AND SYRIA

*421. DR. RAMAPATI RAM TRIPATHI

SHRI ANURAG SHARMA

Will the Minister of External Affairs be please to state:

(a) whether India has provided aid to Türkiye and Syria in the aftermath of the earthquake in February 2023 and if so, the details thereof;

(b) the number of Indian personnel involved in rescue operations including NDRF teams sent to these countries and details of medical assistance provided after the said earthquake to these two countries, country-wise;

(c) the number of Indians died/injured in these countries along with the arrangements/rehabilitation steps taken by the India for its citizens who were killed/injured or who have been missing so far;

(d) the details of aid sent by the Indian Government to other countries as part of humanitarian relief along with the aid received by the Indian Government for various natural disasters in the country during the last three years, year and country-wise; and

(e) whether the Government has any comprehensive policy for the grant of such relief to other countries and if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, [DR. SUBRAHMANYAM JAISHANKAR]

(a) to (e) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) of STARRED QUESTION NO. *421 BY DR. RAMAPATI RAM TRIPATHI AND SHRI ANURAG SHARMA TO BE ANSWERED IN LOK SABHA ON 31.03.2023 REGARDING  AID TO TURKIYE AND SYRIA.

India has provided aid to Türkiye and Syria and deployed three NDRF SAR Teams and a Medical Team to Türkiye in the aftermath of the earthquake in February 2023. Details of aid and number of Indian personnel involved in rescue operation and medical assistance are placed at ANNEXURE-I.

One Indian national died in earthquake in Türkiye. The Government provided all necessary support and made arrangements for the transportation of the mortal remains to the family.  MEA has also coordinated with the State Government of Uttarakhand in the process.

India has an established reputation as a first responder and a responsible Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) provider. The details of aid sent by the Government to other countries as humanitarian relief in last three years are placed at ANNEXURE-II.  During the second wave of COVID-19, 52 countries sent emergency medical supplies to meet immediate requirement.  Details of supplies received by the Indian Government and ANNEXURE-III.

Decision on extending disaster relief is taken on case to case basis depending the nature and severity of disaster, the request from the host government and various other factors.

ANNEXURE-I

Operation Dost: Details of NDRF SAR Team and Medical Team deployed in Türkiye for earthquake rescue operation

NDRD and Medical Team Deployments to Türkiye:

[3  NDRF SAR TEAM (152 personnel including 5 mahila + 06 canines & 06 handlers from 07-18 Feb 2023) and 1 MEDICAL TEAM (60 Para Field Hospital with 99 personnel from 07-19 Feb 2023)]

Humanitarian Aid provided to Türkiye and Syria:

Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

RAJYA SABHA QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1829, 16 March 2023

RAJYA SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1829, ANSWERED ON- 16/03/2023, PERSONS IN THE JAILS OF JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA

1829. SHRI SHAKTISINH GOHIL

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) the number of persons from Amreli district of Gujarat who are in the jails of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as on date; and

(b) the steps taken by Government to get them back?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a & b) As per information available with the Ministry, there are approximately 400 Indian prisoners in various jails in the provinces that are covered by Consulate General of India, Jeddah.

The Government attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and well-being of Indians in Saudi Arabia. Indian Mission and Post in Saudi Arabia remain vigilant and closely monitor the incidents of Indian nationals being put in jail for violation/ alleged violation of local laws.

As soon as the information about the detention/arrest of an Indian national is received by Consulate General of India, Jeddah, it immediately gets in touch with the local Foreign Office and other concerned local authorities to get consular access to the detained/arrested Indian national to ascertain the facts of the case, confirm his Indian nationality and ensure his welfare. Mission/Post has also established 24x7 Helplines and Toll Free Helplines for Indians in Saudi Arabia to seek help. Apart from extending all possible consular assistance to Indians imprisoned in Saudi Arabia, Indian Mission and Post also assist in providing legal aid wherever needed. Mission and Post also maintain a local panel of lawyers. No fee is charged from any Indian prisoner for extending facilities by the Indian Consulate. The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) is set up in Indian Missions & Posts abroad for assisting overseas Indian nationals in distress situations on a means tested basis in deserving cases. The support extended under ICWF includes financial assistance to Indian prisoners for legal aid as well as travel documents / air tickets during repatriation.

The Government makes every possible effort to get imprisoned Indian nationals released from Saudi jails. The Consulate team regularly visits Indian nationals imprisoned in jails and pursues the issue of their release with the local authorities concerned. The Government also follows up the issue of early release and repatriation of Indian prisoners during high level visits and consular and other consultations with Saudi Arabia. When these imprisoned Indians get released, they are facilitated in getting travel documents for early repatriation. Source: Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India.

Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1835, 16 March 2023

RAJYA SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1835, ANSWERED ON- 16/03/2023, SUPPORT TO PALESTINE

1835. PROF. MANOJ KUMAR JHA

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) the details and the number of times India has extended support to Palestine since 2018;

(b) the details of events where India has recognized the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to establish an independent Palestinian State since 2018;

(c) the details of events where India has condemned the bombing and firing in Palestine by Israeli forces since 2018; and

(d) the details of help and support provided to Palestine for capacity building and infrastructure development since 2018?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a & d) India continues to extend political, diplomatic and developmental support to the State of Palestine by various means over the years. There has been exchange of visits from both sides at the highest level. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid a stand-alone visit to Palestine in February 2018, the first ever visit of Indian PM to Palestine.

India has supported /endorsed Palestine in various international and multilateral forums from time to time, including at meetings of United Nations and its various agencies, etc. India extends financial and developmental support for Palestinian nation building through capacity building, project assistance and budgetary support. India provides 150 slots for training in diverse sectors under ITEC programme and 50 ICCR scholarships to Palestine every year. A special course for training of 15 Diplomats of Palestine was conducted in India in September 2019.

A number of MoUs were signed during the visit of Prime Minister of India to Palestine in February 2018, including for building a Super-specialty hospital (USD 29 million), a Women Empowerment Project (USD 5 million), supply of equipment for the National Printing Press of Palestine (USD 5 million), building of Schools (USD 2.35 million). India announced 4 Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in Palestine in 2020, including Rehabilitation of Yasser Arafat Square in Ramallah, Integration of Technology into Education in 8 Schools in Palestine, Setting up of a Nursery in Beitunia Municipality; and Development of Children Park in Aqraba Municipality. Most of these projects have been completed or at advanced stage of completion.

In addition, India supports Palestinian refugees through its contribution to the United Nations Relief & Works Agency for the Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). In 2018, India substantially enhanced its contribution to UNRWA from USD 1.25 million to USD 5 million annually. India has contributed a total of USD 25 million to the agency since 2018.

(b) India is a founder member of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRPP) of the United Nations which was founded in 1975. India has remained unwavering in its support to inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to establish an independent Palestinian State. This has manifested in our statements at multilateral forums and letters issued by Prime Minister on International Day of solidarity with Palestinian people every year.

(c) India has regularly expressed concerns over acts of violence, loss of life and destruction during the escalation between Israel and Palestine. India has consistently supported immediate de-escalation of the situation and urged the concerned parties to exercise restraint and resume dialogue. India reiterated the same in the aftermath of escalation between Israel and Palestine in May 2021 and again in August 2022. Source: Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India.

Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1835, 16 March 2023

RAJYA SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1835, ANSWERED ON- 16/03/2023, SUPPORT TO PALESTINE

1835. PROF. MANOJ KUMAR JHA

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) the details and the number of times India has extended support to Palestine since 2018;

(b) the details of events where India has recognized the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to establish an independent Palestinian State since 2018;

(c) the details of events where India has condemned the bombing and firing in Palestine by Israeli forces since 2018; and

(d) the details of help and support provided to Palestine for capacity building and infrastructure development since 2018?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a & d) India continues to extend political, diplomatic and developmental support to the State of Palestine by various means over the years. There has been exchange of visits from both sides at the highest level. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid a stand-alone visit to Palestine in February 2018, the first ever visit of Indian PM to Palestine.

India has supported /endorsed Palestine in various international and multilateral forums from time to time, including at meetings of United Nations and its various agencies, etc. India extends financial and developmental support for Palestinian nation building through capacity building, project assistance and budgetary support. India provides 150 slots for training in diverse sectors under ITEC programme and 50 ICCR scholarships to Palestine every year. A special course for training of 15 Diplomats of Palestine was conducted in India in September 2019.

A number of MoUs were signed during the visit of Prime Minister of India to Palestine in February 2018, including for building a Super-specialty hospital (USD 29 million), a Women Empowerment Project (USD 5 million), supply of equipment for the National Printing Press of Palestine (USD 5 million), building of Schools (USD 2.35 million). India announced 4 Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in Palestine in 2020, including Rehabilitation of Yasser Arafat Square in Ramallah, Integration of Technology into Education in 8 Schools in Palestine, Setting up of a Nursery in Beitunia Municipality; and Development of Children Park in Aqraba Municipality. Most of these projects have been completed or at advanced stage of completion.

In addition, India supports Palestinian refugees through its contribution to the United Nations Relief & Works Agency for the Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). In 2018, India substantially enhanced its contribution to UNRWA from USD 1.25 million to USD 5 million annually. India has contributed a total of USD 25 million to the agency since 2018.

(b) India is a founder member of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRPP) of the United Nations which was founded in 1975. India has remained unwavering in its support to inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to establish an independent Palestinian State. This has manifested in our statements at multilateral forums and letters issued by Prime Minister on International Day of solidarity with Palestinian people every year.

(c) India has regularly expressed concerns over acts of violence, loss of life and destruction during the escalation between Israel and Palestine. India has consistently supported immediate de-escalation of the situation and urged the concerned parties to exercise restraint and resume dialogue. India reiterated the same in the aftermath of escalation between Israel and Palestine in May 2021 and again in August 2022. Source: Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India.

Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1881, 16 March 2023

RAJYA SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1881, ANSWERED ON- 16/03/2023, OPERATION DOST TO EARTHQUAKE HIT TURKEY AND SYRIA

1881. SHRI M. SHANMUGAM

SHRI VAIKO

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) the details of relief materials including medical assistance, NDRF teams sent to the quake-hit

Turkey and Syria under Operation Dost, country-wise;

(b) how many days the rescue operations were continued by the Indian teams, with relief packages;

(c) any relief provided to the lakhs and lakhs of children who were orphaned due to this tragedy, in coordination with the UNICEF; and

(d) if so, the reasons thereof?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a) The details of the relief material including medical assistance, NDRF teams sent to quake-hit Turkey and Syria are placed at Annexure-I.

(b) The NDRF rescue team and medical team were deployed on 07 February 2023. The NDRF team were de-inducted on 18 February 2023 and medical team on 19 February 2023.

(c & d) The aid was provided to the respective governments of Turkey and Syria.

ANNEXURE-I

Team Deployments to Turkey

 Humanitarian Aid

Source: Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India.

Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2628, 23 March 2023

RAJYA SABHA, UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-2628, ANSWERED ON- 23/03/2023, DEATH OF MIGRANT LABOURERS IN QATAR

2628. SHRI. SANJEEV ARORA

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) the breakdown of causes of deaths of over 2,700 Indian migrant labourers, as per reports, in the last ten years working in Qatar on FIFA World Cup related infrastructure projects;

(b) the number of deaths occurring because of poor working conditions, heat strokes, and other preventable causes;

(c) the compensation received by the next of kin of these migrant workers from Qatari companies/Government; and

(d) the mechanisms for informing the bereaved families, embassy assistance provided, grievance redressal mechanism available to families in case they wish to contest the cause of death?

ANSWERL THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, (SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a & b) Details of death of Indian nationals registered with the Embassy of India, Doha due to various reasons in the last ten years are attached at Annexure ‘A’.

(c) Death compensation is applicable to Road Traffic Accidents and work site accidents according to Qatari Law. In such cases the Embassy pursues these cases with local police and Qatari courts. Family members of the deceased are apprised about the development and latest position of the case on regular basis. In most cases the Embassy takes the Power of Attorney from the legal heirs of the deceased and once a compensation is received the same is remitted to the legal heirs of the deceased.

(d) Whenever Mission receives information regarding death of any Indian national it reaches out to the bereaved family through various options available to it such as through employer, local Indian community in Qatar or the local authorities in India.

Mission provides all necessary assistance to the family members of the deceased Indian National in sending of the mortal remains back to the home town of the deceased or facilitates in local burial of the mortal remains according to the wish of the family. Expenditure on transportation of mortal remains or local cremation is also borne out of Indian Community Welfare Fund on means tested basis.

Whenever the Mission receives any complaints/representation from the relatives of deceased Indian nationals, seeking an investigation into the cause of death, the matter is taken up with the local authorities to conduct a fair investigation into the circumstances and cause of the death. Report/Outcome of the investigation is shared by the Mission with the family members of the deceased. If required Mission also provides legal assistance through legal firms on the panel of the Mission. Expenditure on legal assistance is  borne out of Indian Community Welfare Fund on means tested basis.

ANNEXURE-A

Details of death of Indian nationals due to various reasons in the last ten years:

Source: Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India.

As part of the policy, the MEI@ND standardizes spellings and date format to make the text uniformly accessible and stylistically consistent. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views/positions of the MEI@ND. Editor, MEI@ND P R Kumaraswamy.