India Honours Trinidad and Tobago President With Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award
India Honours Trinidad and Tobago President With Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. India continues to strengthen its global ties and acknowledge the contributions of its diaspora through prestigious recognitions. One such honor was recently conferred upon Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting her remarkable achievements in public affairs and her role in enhancing India’s global prestige. This award signifies the deep-rooted historical connections and shared heritage between India and the Caribbean nation.
India Honours Trinidad and Tobago President With Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award
India Recognizes Christine Carla Kangaloo’s Contributions
India has bestowed the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award upon Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago. The award acknowledges her achievements in public affairs and her role in enhancing India’s global prestige.
The High Commission of India in Trinidad and Tobago made the announcement. On Republic Day, the Indian High Commissioner, Dr. Pradeep Rajpurohit, presented the award on behalf of President Droupadi Murmu.
Prestigious Recognition for Indo-Trinidadian Leader
Kangaloo, an Indo-Trinidadian, was the chief guest for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention. The event took place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8-10, 2025. Her virtual address received appreciation across India and the global Indian diaspora.
The High Commission congratulated President Kangaloo and the First Gentleman for this esteemed recognition. They also expressed gratitude for their presence at the Republic Day reception.
Strong Historical Ties Between India and Trinidad & Tobago
During her PBD address, Kangaloo emphasized the historical ties between India and Trinidad and Tobago:
- Indian indentured workers first arrived in Trinidad in 1845.
- After Trinidad and Tobago gained independence in 1962, India was among the first nations to establish diplomatic ties.
India’s Global Contributions Highlighted
President Kangaloo praised India’s contributions in multiple fields, including:
Education and Science
- Takshashila – The world’s first university.
- Ayurveda – India’s early medical system.
- Inventions – Algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and the concept of zero.
Cultural Heritage
- Chess – Originated in India.
- Decimal system – Developed by Indian mathematicians.
- Sushruta – The father of surgery.
Acknowledging the Indian Diaspora’s Impact
Kangaloo recognized the Indian diaspora for their role in:
- Cultural preservation.
- Social and economic development worldwide.
- Strengthening India’s international image.
She described Pravasi Bharatiya Divas as an important platform for collaboration between India and overseas Indians.
Indo-Trinidadian Heritage and Contribution
More than 143,000 Indian indentured workers arrived in Trinidad over 72 years. Today, their descendants make up 42% of the country’s population. They continue to enrich Trinidad and Tobago’s culture, economy, and traditions.
Expressing Gratitude for the Honour
Receiving the award, Kangaloo said:
“I feel deeply humbled and honoured by this recognition.”
She also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in providing vaccines upon Trinidad and Tobago’s request.
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Conclusion
The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is a symbol of India’s appreciation for its global diaspora. By honoring Christine Carla Kangaloo, India reaffirms its commitment to recognizing the efforts of individuals who contribute to strengthening international relations. This award serves as a bridge between India and its overseas communities, fostering collaboration and mutual growth. The enduring bonds between India and Trinidad and Tobago continue to thrive, reflecting a shared history and a promising future.
