The world is watching India’s Covid-19 vaccination programme with bated breath, and the country is ready to tackle coronavirus with two made-in-India vaccines, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday during the inauguration of the 16th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention.
"Being the pharmacy of the world, India has supplied important medicines to all those in need in the past and is also doing so now. The world is not only waiting for Indian vaccines but is also watching how India runs the world’s biggest vaccination programme," Modi said.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, also known as the Non-Resident Indian Day, is observed on January 9 and a convention is held by the ministry of external affairs to engage with the Indian diaspora spread across the globe.
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During his address, the PM also lauded the country’s efforts in safeguarding democracy. "When India got Independence then it was said that such a poor and under-literate country will disintegrate and democracy (democratic system) would be impossible here. Today, India is united and democratic ideals are the most strong, vibrant and lively in India compared to any other country in the world," he said.
While talking about the nation’s fight against the pandemic, Modi said India has one of the lowest fatality rates and the highest recovery rate. He also lauded the Indian diaspora for not just helping India fight the pandemic but for also helping governments across the world.
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"I have had a dialogue with several heads of states who told me how Indian diaspora has extended a helping hand in those countries and provided leadership in extending assistance even in these difficult times. This was a matter of pride for me,” Modi said.
The PM also assured the Indian diaspora that the country will stand with them through thick and thin. “Over 45 lakh people were rescued as part of the Vande Bharat mission during the pandemic,” he said.
Earlier, the keynote address at the 16th PBD Convention 2021 was delivered by chief guest Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the President of Suriname.
The theme of 16th PBD Convention 2021 is "Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat".
(With PTI inputs)
