Embassy of India

Antananarivo, Madagascar

Ambassador’s Remarks at the inauguration of Jaipur Foot Camp

(12 November 2024)

***

First Lady of the Republic of Madagascar H.E. Mrs. Mialy Rajoelina,

Minister of Public Health H.E. Prof. Zely Arivelo and other Members of the Government of Madagascar,

Governor of Analamanga Region H.E. Mr. Hery Rasoamaromaka, 

President of BMVSS Ambassador Satish Mehta,

CEO of Axian Group Mr. Hassanein Hiridjee,

Representative of VISEO Foundation Mr. Cheraly Pinou,

President of Mahatsangy Association Dr. Liliane,

Members of the Indian Diaspora in Madagascar,

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Namaste, Salama, Good Morning. It is my pleasure and privilege to take part in the inauguration of the first ever "Jaipur Foot Camp" in Madagascar. I am deeply grateful to Her Excellency the First Lady of Madagascar and also the Minister of Public Health for their gracious support to the disabled in Madagascar to regain a sense of dignity and mobility.

2. As you are aware, BMVSS (Jaipur Foot NGO) is the world's largest organization for the disabled, which is instrumental in gifting artificial limbs to more than 2.2 million people in India and abroad. It was in 2018, on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi that the Ministry of External Affairs of India in association with BMVSS had launched its “India for Humanity” Program to organize a series of Jaipur Foot Camps abroad. I am glad to note that more than 16,000 disabled persons in about 30 countries have so far received free of cost artificial limbs during these camps. The organization of the first Jaipur Foot Camp in Madagascar symbolizes the traditional bonds of friendship between India and Madagascar as well as the growing partnership between our two countries, especially in the health sector. This is also in line with the ancient Indian philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (The whole world is a family) and our Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). I am glad that more than 500 disabled people in Madagascar will be receiving free of cost fitment of artificial limbs during the camp. I would like to express my gratitude to the Axian Group for providing the venue and making excellent arrangements for the camp. I am also deeply grateful to the Office of the First Lady, Ministry of Public Health, Mahatsangy Association, Viseo Foundation, Dawoodi Bohras and several other Members of the Indian Community for their immense contribution to this Jaipur Foot camp. 

3. In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm that as a close neighbor and a fellow developing country in the Indian Ocean region, India will always be a reliable and committed partner in the developmental journey of Madagascar. Embassy will work closely with the Ministry of Public Health and other relevant agencies in Madagascar to further strengthen India-Madagascar cooperation in the areas of Health, Pharmaceuticals, Ayurveda, Traditional Medicine etc. Once again, thank you all for joining us in today’s inauguration of the Jaipur Foot camp! Misaotra Tompoko.

***