On Thursday 26 January, 2017, the High Commission of India hosted a public flag hoisting event celebrating the Republic Day of India. Located in Yarralumla within the Australian Capital Territory, many visitors crowded around the flag pole and outer courtyard of the Indian High Commission. The flag was hoisted at 11am sharp followed by the Indian National Anthem, surrounded by two honour guards.

Afterwards, the High Commissioner Dr A. M. Gondane read out the President’s Speech praising India’s population, the current economy and future path of India. The Commissioner added a few more words himself, the most notable that there are multitudes of Indian communities of different faiths around Australia co-existing with the Australian community. Also, he indicated that every month, the High Commission doors will be open and any individual of Indian origin would be able to speak his mind or make awareness of any issues affecting these communities. The High Commissioner himself would be there to personally listen to any troubles or advice.

The flag hoisting ceremony ended with light refreshments and mingling with those who were proud to celebrate the 68th Anniversary since India became a fully-fledged independent republic

ICSOA’s senior member and founder of AIBC , Mr Zafar Siddiqui attended the Canberra event along with his family