IRAN

ICG detains Iranian boat, with six Indians onboard, off Kerala coast, 06 May 2024

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) detained an Iranian fishing vessel, with six Indian crew, west of Beypore off the coast of Kerala late on May 05, 2024. The swift sea-air coordinated operation involved the ships and aircraft of the ICG.

After intercepting the boat, an ICG team boarded the vessel and thoroughly investigated it to check the involvement of any anti-national activity. Initial investigation revealed that the owner of the boat was an Iranian sponsor who had contracted these Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu, and issued them Iranian Visas for fishing off the Iran coast.

The crew alleged that the sponsor ill-treated and deprived them of basic living conditions, besides confiscating their passports. The crew said that they had decided to escape from Iran to India using the same boat.

The detained vessel was safely brought to Kochi for further investigation on May 06, 2024. Source: Press Information Bureau.

His Excellency Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and H.E. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran passed away in a helicopter crash, 20 May 2024

H.E. Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and H.E. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran have passed away in a helicopter crash. As a mark of respect to the departed souls, the Government of India has declared a one day's state mourning on May 21, 2024 (Tuesday) throughout the country.

On the day of mourning, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings where the National Flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day. Source: Press Information Bureau.

India declares one-day national mourning on the tragic demise of the President and Foreign Minister of Iran, 20 May 2024

The Government of India has declared one-day national mourning tomorrow, 21 May 2024 as a mark of respect to H.E. Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and H.E. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash. The National Flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India on all buildings where the National Flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day.

​Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar have expressed condolences at the demise of H.E. Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, and H.E. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. In their messages, they noted the important role the two leaders have played in strengthening the India-Iran relations. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Visit of Vice-President of India to the Islamic Republic of Iran (May 22, 2024), 21 May 2024

Vice-President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar will pay a visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran on 22 May 2024 to attend official ceremony to pay condolences on the tragic demise of H.E. President Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, H.E. Foreign Minister Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and other Iranian officials in an unfortunate helicopter crash on 19 May 2024.

President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi have conveyed their condolences to the government and people of Iran. External Affairs Minister visited Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi on 21 May 2024 to convey India’s condolences on the tragic loss. India is observing a day of national mourning on Tuesday, 21 May 2024. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

JORDAN

Shri Manish Chauhan appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 29 May 2024

Shri Manish Chauhan (IFS : 1994), presently Ambassador of India to Portugal, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

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

OMAN

First ever Digitization Project for Historical Documents of the Indian Diaspora concludes in Muscat, 27 May 2024

Embassy of India Muscat, in association with the National Archives of India (NAI), has successfully conducted a unique and pioneering initiative to archive historical documents of the Indian diaspora living in Oman.

‘The Oman Collection – Archival Heritage of the Indian Community in Oman’ - a special digitization and oral history project was conducted at the Embassy of India premises in Muscat from May 19-27, 2024 and saw enthusiastic participation of 32 prominent Indian families hailing from the state of Gujarat in India, whose presence in Oman spans several generations and dates back to 250 years.

This was the first overseas project of the NAI for digitizing and archiving diaspora documents, marking an important step in preserving the history and heritage of the Indian community abroad.

Indian Community in Oman

Today, Oman is home to nearly 700,000 Indians. India and the Sultanate of Oman share a rich tapestry of historical and cultural connections that go back 5000 years. In recent times, several merchant families mainly from Mandvi, Surat and other parts of Gujarat have been resident in Sur, Muttrah and Muscat since the late 18th century CE.. They are an integral part of the Omani society, many having become Omani citizens, but also maintain strong ties with their motherland India.

Record number of documents digitized

Over 7000 documents in English, Arabic, Gujarati, and Hindi languages from the private collections of the old Indian merchant families were scanned and digitized under this project. The oldest digitized document dates back to 1838, while a large majority date from late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The wide variety of documents digitized include personal diaries, account books, ledgers, telegrams, trade invoices, passports, citations, letters & correspondences, photographs etc that shed a fascinating light into the lives and contributions of the Indian community in the Sultanate of Oman.

These documents collectively constitute a vivid narration of the history of the Indian community in Oman, including their cultural practices, social activities, trade and commerce, as well as their contributions to and integration into the Omani society, and the preservation of Indian traditions abroad.

The digitized documents will be archived and uploaded on ‘Abhilekh Patal’, the digital portal of the NAI, making these documents available to researchers and wider public.

Private collections of the following Indian/Indian-origin families have been digitized:

Ratansi Purshotam family 

Khimji Ramdas family

Haridas Nensey family

Bhanji Haridas Mundrawalla family

Naraindas and Shanta Toprani family

Maganlal Manji Vyas family

Vijay Singh Veljee Pawani family

Lakhoo’s Ved family

Chimanlal Chhotalal Surti family

Jayantilal Wadher family

Kanojia family

Ramesh Khimji family

Visoomal Damodardas family

Vijay Singh Purshotam Toprani family

Jamnadas Keshavji family

Naranjee Hirjee family

Velji Arjun Pawani family

Purshotam Damodar family

Pandya family

Meghji Nenshi family

Shah Nagardas Manji family

Ajit Khimji family

Khatau Ratansi Toprani family

Ratanshi Gordhandas Bajaria family

Harshendu Hasmukh Shah family

Khubo Gurnani family

Mohanlal Arjun Pawani family

Dhanji Moraji “Shabica” family

Ebji Sundardas Asher

Dharamsey Nensey

Kiran Asher family

Bakul Mehta family

Oral Histories Recorded

In addition to the digitization of historical documents, the project also involved recording of oral histories of the older members of the Indian community, the first such oral history project by the National Archives of India. These firsthand narratives capture a wide range of stories, including personal anecdotes, migration experiences, and the evolution of the Indian community in Oman over the decades and will enrich the archival records.

Noting the unique significance of this project, Shri Arun Singhal, Director General of the National Archives of India (NAI) stated "This is the first time that we have collected and digitized the private archives of diaspora documents from abroad. This marks a historic milestone for the NAI and a significant step towards preserving the rich heritage and narratives of the diverse overseas Indian community”.

H.E Amit Narang, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman noted that "This project aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji's vision to strengthen connections with the Indian diaspora worldwide. By documenting and preserving the history of the Indian community in Oman, we are rekindling a vital part of our shared heritage and fostering a deeper engagement with our diaspora".

Sheikh Anil Khimji, head of the Indian community in Oman, expressed his appreciation for the project.

He said "We thank Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar for their vision of engaging and connecting with the Indian diaspora. The archiving of the historical documents of the Indian diaspora by Embassy of India will go a long way in preserving their history and in doing so also showcase the time-tested bonds of friendship between India and the Sultanate of Oman".

The initiative was supported by the National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA) of Oman, which provided essential logistical and other support, ensuring the smooth execution of the project.

In addition to preserving historical records, the digitization project seeks to foster a more focused engagement with the Indian diaspora community in Oman, and in doing so will promote a better appreciation of the longstanding India-Oman friendship. The project will facilitate better research about the Indian diaspora's development and contributions and will serve as a valuable resource for future generations. Source: Embassy of India, Muscat.

SAUDI ARABIA

Official visit of Secretary (CPV&OIA) Shri Muktesh K. Pardeshi to Saudi Arabia (May 04-07, 2024), 08 May 2024

​Secretary (CPV&OIA) Shri Muktesh K. Pardeshi concluded an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 4th to 7th May, 2024 aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.

2.​ During his visit, Secretary conducted a review of preparations for Haj 2024 in Jeddah and Madinah. He met with Vice Haj Minister H.E. Dr. Abdul Fattah Mashat and discussed logistical arrangements and infrastructure developments aimed at the welfare and comfort for pilgrims. This year, a total of 175,025 Indian pilgrims will visit Saudi Arabia under the 2024 Hajj quota.

3.​ In Riyadh, Secretary held substantive discussions with H.E. Dr. Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and reviewed the progress under the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in addition to a number of topics of bilateral and mutual interest. Secretary reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with KSA across various sectors.

4. ​On the economic side, Secretary met with Assistant Ministers of Electricity Affairs, H.E. Nasser Al Qahtani and Assistant Minister for and Petroleum and Gas H.E. Eng. Mohammed AIbrahim in the Ministry of Energy to discuss deepening energy cooperation, including in the field of renewables and on grid connectivity. They also discussed facilitating investments between the two countries. In a separate meeting with Dr. Raad Al Barakati, President and CEO of the Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnerships (SCISP), the two sides reviewed the work under the Economy pillar of the SPC.

5.​ Engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was an important focus of the visit. The Secretary visited the GCC Secretariat in Riyadh and held a meeting with GCC Assistant Secretary General H.E Dr. Abdulaziz Aluwaisheg. The two sides discussed strengthening the institutional framework of ties, and enhancing relations across various sectors, including in trade, security, energy, and cultural exchange. Both sides exchanged views on the regional and international situation.

6.​ During his visit, Secretary also reviewed the well-being of the 2.4 million-strong Indian community in Saudi Arabia. He appreciated the leadership of the Kingdom for their efforts in ensuring the welfare of the Indian community. He interacted with the vibrant community in both Jeddah and Riyadh. Secretary expressed his appreciation for the contributions of the Indian community to the socio-economic fabric of Saudi Arabia and assured them of the Government of India's continued support and assistance.

7.​ Secretary (CPV&OIA)’s visit underscored the depth and breadth of the relationship between India and Saudi Arabia and the GCC, reaffirming commitment to mutual prosperity and collaboration across diverse fields. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

5th meeting of India-UAE Joint Committee on Consular Affairs, 15 May 2024

​ The 5th meeting of Joint Committee on Consular Affairs (JCCA) was held on 14th May 2024 in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Shri Muktesh Pardeshi, Secretary (CPV & OIA), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. The UAE delegation was led by H.E. Mr. Khaled Belhoul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the UAE.

2. ​India and UAE enjoy warm, close and multi-faceted relationship which is built on the deep bonds of friendship between both sides. The relationship between the two countries, which was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2017, encompasses all areas of mutual cooperation – political, economic, trade, commerce, defence, cultural, technology and energy, with people-to-people ties forming the bedrock. UAE is currently host to more than 3.5 million Indian citizens, the largest outside India.

3.​ The two sides held wide-ranging discussions on mechanisms to strengthen coordination and co-operation on Consular issues covering labour, visa, migration, citizenship and extradition, among others. The UAE side gave a detailed briefing on various steps taken by the government to ensure the welfare of the Indian workers in the UAE. Both sides reiterated their commitment to continue to work towards citizen-centric consular mechanisms.

4. ​The two sides also discussed other issues of mutual interest including visa facilitation for promoting greater people-to-people exchanges and early conclusion of agreements related to migration and mobility. Outcomes from the meeting also included regular exchange of statistics related to the citizens of each other’s countries and best practices on consular matters.

5.​ The two sides agreed to follow-up on the agreed decisions of the meeting and review them at the next Consular Dialogue, which will be held in Abu Dhabi at a mutually convenient date. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

GAZA CRISIS

Statement on the unfortunate death of Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale (Retd.) in Gaza while working as a UN Staffer, 15 May 2024

We are deeply saddened by the death of Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale (Retd.), Security Coordination Officer in the UN Department of Safety and Security (DSS) in Gaza on 13 May 2024. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and dear ones.

Our Permanent Mission to the UN in New York and our Missions in Tel Aviv and Ramallah are extending all assistance in the repatriation of mortal remains to India and continue to be in touch with relevant authorities regarding the investigation into the incident. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.  

IRAN-ISRAEL CONFLICT

Official Spokesperson’s response to a media query on travel advisory with respect to Iran and Israel, 03 May 2024

In response to a media query on travel advisory with respect to Iran and Israel, the Official Spokesperson, Shri Randhir Jaiswal said:

"We continue to closely monitor the situation in the region. We have also noted that Iran and Israel have opened their airspace for several days now. We advise Indian nationals to remain vigilant while traveling to these countries and be in touch with the Indian Embassy.” Source: Ministry of External Affairs, 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.