Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday highlighted India’s cultural diversity as its greatest strength while addressing the Indian community and students in Muscat, Oman. Calling diversity the foundation of Indian culture, the Prime Minister said that wherever Indians go in the world, they respect and embrace diversity.
Addressing a large gathering, PM Modi said, “We Indians respect diversity wherever we go. Diversity in India is a strong base of our culture. I see a mini India before me today.” His speech began amid chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai,” “Vande Mataram,” and “Modi, Modi,” after he encouraged the audience to raise the slogans.
The event was attended by students from more than 700 Indian schools in Oman and marked the completion of 50 years of Indian education in the country. Congratulating the Indian community, PM Modi said this milestone reflects the deep-rooted relationship between India and Oman. He noted that over 46,000 students are currently studying in Indian schools in Oman, including children from other communities as well.
Referring to India’s rapid progress, the Prime Minister said Indians living abroad closely follow developments back home. “You all see how India is moving forward at a new pace. The speed of our development is visible in our intentions as well as in our performance,” he said. He also pointed to India’s economic growth of over 8 percent, stating that India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy despite global challenges.
Speaking on education, PM Modi mentioned the ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ initiative and said students from Oman actively participate in it. He added that such interactions help students and parents manage exam stress and reflect India’s people-centric approach to education.
Highlighting India-Oman ties, PM Modi said the relationship, which began with trade, has now expanded strongly into education, innovation, and people-to-people connections. He thanked Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman for his support towards the welfare of the Indian community and described the Indian diaspora as a symbol of coexistence and cooperation.
The Prime Minister also spoke about the future-ready partnership between India and Oman, mentioning areas such as artificial intelligence, digital learning, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Earlier, at the India-Oman Business Summit, he said that the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) would give new momentum to bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation in the 21st century.
PM Modi said that India’s growth benefits not only itself but also its friendly nations. He noted that India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy, which would be particularly beneficial for Oman, given the strong friendship and shared maritime ties between the two countries.
