Phnom Penh: The Embassy of India in Phnom Penh celebrated the 73rd Republic Day of India on 26th January 2022 with great enthusiasm and fanfare at the Embassy premises. Despite today being a working day, more than 100 members of the Indian community, Persons of Indian Origin, and friends of India in Cambodia attended the event.
Keeping in view the health protocols that are in place in Cambodia due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was organized by taking all health-related precautions and the entire event was streamed live for the convenience of those, who have not been able to be physically present.
The ceremony commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag by H. E. Dr. Devyani Khobragade, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Members of the Indian community recited the national anthem. Following this, Ambassador Khobragade read out the honorable president of India’s address to the Nation on this occasion.
The honorable president of India, in her address, touched upon various topics including the celebration of Indian-ness, the essence of the Constitution of India, and the contributions made by the framers of the Indian Constitution, including the stellar role played by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who is considered to be the Father of the Indian Constitution, in drafting the sacred document, celebration of 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and his quest for Independence.
The Government of India‘s relentless focus on reforming various economic sectors and extending helping hand to the sectors affected by the COVID-19 situation in India, achievements of India and its nationals in the last one year, India‘s quest for Atmanirbhar Bharat or Self Reliant India, including development and manufacturing of indigenous COVID-19 vaccines to cater to the needs of India and the world as the pharmacy of the world, India‘s ambitious push for renewable energy to mitigate the effects of climate change, the commemoration of 75 years of Independence and celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, etc.
Availing this opportunity, Ambassador had extensive interaction with the members of the Indian community to gauge their reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic situation in the country, its effects on their respective businesses and employment opportunities, vaccination levels within the community, etc. The event has also provided an Open House kind of opportunity for the community to discuss various matters of their concern. The program ended with light refreshments.
Source: India in Cambodia (Embassy of India, Phnom Penh)
