Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, invited the Indian community there to visit India — the land of their ancestors. Speaking warmly, he said Indians will welcome them with “open arms, warm hearts, and jalebi.”
This visit marks PM Modi’s first trip to Trinidad and Tobago and the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1999.
He addressed the Indian-origin community and encouraged them to travel beyond social media and experience India in person. “Bring your children, neighbours, or anyone who enjoys ‘chai’ and a good story,” he said.
He also praised Trinidad’s leader Kamla Persad Bissessar, calling her the “daughter of Bihar” due to her ancestral roots in Buxar district. He invited her to the Mahakumbh and presented her with holy water from the Sarayu River, asking her to offer it to the Ganga Dhara in Trinidad.
Modi announced a major gift for the Indian diaspora: people of Indian origin in Trinidad and Tobago, up to the sixth generation, will now be eligible for OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards. This card allows them to live and work in India without restrictions. “India embraces you,” he said.
Kamla Persad Bissessar gave a warm welcome to Modi, calling him “one of the world’s most respected and visionary leaders.” She praised his efforts in modernizing India, empowering its people, and spreading Indian culture globally. She also thanked India for providing vaccines during the COVID-19 crisis.
To honour his visit, PM Modi was awarded The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago — the country’s highest civilian honour.
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