Embassy of India

Antananarivo, Madagascar

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Ambassador’s Remarks  on the occasion of the Raksha Bandhan

(30 August 2023)

Minister of Handicrafts and Trades Ms. Sophie Ratsiraka,

Quaestor and Chairperson of India- Madagascar Friendship Group in the National Assembly Mrs. Lanto Rakotomanga,

President of the University of Madagascar Prof. Mamy Ravelomanana,

Honorable Members of National Assembly,

Secretary General of Ministry of Digital Development,

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Namaste and Good Morning! Warm greetings to you all on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan- the traditional Indian festival to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters to defend and protect one another.

2. As you know, over the years, Raksha Bandhan has become gender neutral and now it has come to symbolize the celebration of all human bonds regardless of the relationship. In the context of ongoing conflict in Ukraine and increasing threats to food and energy security of the developing countries, Raksha Bandhan offers hope to the world, with its message of peace and togetherness. This year, we are happy to mark Raksha Bandhan with some exquisite eco-friendly Rakhis (Wristbands) made of bamboo by tribal communities from the State of Maharashtra.

3.   You might also be aware that two weeks ago, on 15 August, India celebrated its 77th Independence Day and last week India became the world’s fourth country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon and its first to land near Moon’s south pole. As President of Madagascar H.E. Mr. Andry Rajoelina rightly said, “The historic soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on Moon’s south pole is a success for all of humanity”. Tonight when the people of Madagascar look at the full moon, they can take pride in the fact that Pragyan (Wisdom) Rover from their neighbour in the Indian Ocean region is undertaking scientific studies of the Moon’s south pole for the benefit of all humanity, especially for the countries of the Global South. In the words of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the success of Chandrayaan-3 reflects India’s ancient philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (Whole Earth is One Family) and its human-centric approach which leaves no one behind. India desires that Chandrayaan-3 will inspire future moon missions by many countries, including from the Global South.

4. I would like conclude by reaffirming that India attaches importance to Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and further strengthening of its longstanding partnerships with Madagascar. I would also like to reassure that India will remain a committed and reliable partner in your developmental journey. Long live India -Madagascar friendship. Once again a very happy Raksha Bandhan to all of you! Thank you.

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