Ambassador’s Remarks at the Indian States Promotion Event
(Nosy Be, 18 September 2024)
Governor of Diana Region H.E. Mr. Taciano Rakotomanga,
Prefect of Nosy Be Mr. Tilahizandry Niaina Angelo,
Representatives of the Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Namaste, Salama, Good morning. I am glad to visit the beautiful town of Nosy Be and to take part in today’s event to promote tourism and trade between the Indian States and Diana Region of Madagascar.
2. At the outset, I would like to mention about the economic transformation currently underway in India. India is now the world’s 5th largest economy and its fastest growing major economy. It is home to the world’s 3rd largest start-up ecosystem, with more than 110 unicorns. India became the 4th country in the world to achieve a soft landing on the Moon and is among the select countries to send their spacecraft to observe the Sun from a distance of 1.5 million km from the earth. India is also the global leader in real-time digital payment transactions, generic medicines and renewable energy. Given its affordable and high quality medical care, India is also becoming a preferred destination for medical and wellness tourism, including for the people of Madagascar.
3. Now, I would like to touch upon the opportunities for tourism and trade between the Indian states of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, and Kerala with Diana Region of Madagascar.
Delhi, officially known as the National Capital Territory of Delhi is a Union Territory having its own Legislative Assembly and Council of Ministers. Delhi boasts of thousands of years of history and culture. It is a major tourist destination with monuments like Red Fort, Purana Qila, Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar, India Gate etc. Delhi is also a preferred destination for higher education and advanced medical care with institutions like IIT-Delhi and All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in India, with population of about 250 million and a GDP of US$ 310 billion. It is home to famous tourist destinations including the Taj Mahal, Sarnath, Prayagraj, Varanasi etc. Uttar Pradesh is also called the “Food Basket of India" as it is one of the leading producers of wheat, rice, sugar, milk etc. Noida in Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a key hub for Information Technology, Electronics and Semiconductors etc.
Uttarakhand, located in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, is renowned for its pilgrimage sites and breath-taking landscapes, especially its snow-covered peaks, mountain rivers and verdant valleys. Thanks to its picturesque locations, the state has established itself a favorite destination for film makers in India. The state is also emerging as a major investment destination for Food Processing, Pharmaceuticals and Wellness Tourism.
Rajasthan is the largest Indian state with an area of more than 342,000 sq km, a population of 68 mn and a GDP of about US$ 200 bn. Rajasthan is known for its gigantic forts and palaces, extensive sand desert and rich handicrafts. Rajasthan is a leader in renewable energy, the largest producer of blended fabric and wool and the second largest producer of millets in India.
Kerala is one of the most scenic and popular tourist destinations, which is also famous for its backwaters and Ayurveda therapies. Kerala boasts of high literacy rate (94%) and high life expectancy (75 years). The state is also a significant exporter of coir, spices, marine products, cashew, coffee etc.
4. In conclusion, I would like to affirm that as a close neighbor and fellow developing country in the Indian Ocean Region, India desires to see the emergence of Madagascar as a thriving nation. Embassy looks forward to working closely with the authorities of Diana region to realize the full potential of tourism and trade cooperation between the States of India and Diana region. I take this opportunity to welcome you all to the Special Yoga Session in Nosy Be this afternoon. Thank you once again for joining us in today’s event!
