The 72nd anniversary of India’s Independence was celebrated at the India House, at Canberra

The 72nd anniversary of India’s Independence was celebrated at the India House, at Canberra on August 15, 2019 with a flag-hoisting ceremony. The President’s Address to the Nation on the eve of the Independence Day was read out by High Commissioner Dr. A. M. Gondane. More than 100 guests including members of Indian community and friends of India attended the flag hoisting ceremony. Later, a reception was hosted in the evening at the Iconic Albert Hall from 1830 hrs to 2030hrs. More than 250 guests including the Chief Minister of Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Federal Parliamentarians, MLAs of ACT Assembly, Chief of Protocol, senior officials from Department of Foreign Affairs and other departments of Australian Government, members of the Diplomatic Corps, prominent members of Indian diaspora in Canberra, attended the Reception. In his address, High Commissioner traced the progress of modern India since Independence and the significant milestones achieved in every sphere of endeavour including the recent historic launch of lunar orbiter / lander mission (Chandrayan 2) and highlighted the ascent of Indian economy. HC Dr. Gondane also touched upon the bold decision taken recently by the Indian Government to ensure good governance, social justice and also promote economic development in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. On the bilateral relations with Australia, HC Dr. Gondane stressed on the need to build on the excellent foundation to help realise the vast untapped potential across all areas. Mr. Andrew Barr, Chief Minister of ACT and Senator Malcolm Roberts also adressed the gathering on the occasion and shared their views on AustraliaIndias relation and the contribution of Indian diaspora in Australia. During the Independence Day Reception, Mission organised two special stalls to promote the “Make in India” and “Digital India” initiative of Govt. of India detailing the measures taken/ being taken to transform India into the Global Design & Manufacturing Hub and into a digitally empowered knowledge based economy.