Highlights Deep Historical and Cultural Ties Between India and Trinidad and Tobago
Port of Spain: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his official visit to Trinidad and Tobago, called the country’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar a true “Bihar ki Beti” (daughter of Bihar). Speaking at a gathering of the Indian community on Friday, PM Modi highlighted her ancestral connection to Buxar in Bihar and praised the strong cultural ties between India and the Caribbean nation.
“We Are Connected by Belonging”
Addressing a large crowd of Indian-origin citizens, PM Modi said:
“We are not just connected by blood or surname, we are connected by belonging. The ancestors of PM Kamla were from Bihar’s Buxar. She has also visited the place. People consider her the daughter of Bihar.”
He further praised Bihar’s contribution to the world, stating:
“Bihar’s heritage is the pride of India and the world. Bihar has shown the way in various fields for centuries. In the 21st century too, new opportunities will emerge from Bihar.”
Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s Historic Legacy
Kamla Persad-Bissessar has achieved many firsts in her political career. She is:
-
The first female Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago
-
The first female Attorney General
-
The first woman Opposition Leader
-
The first woman to chair the Commonwealth of Nations
-
The first woman of Indian descent to become a Prime Minister outside India and the subcontinent
Her family traces its roots back to Bihar, and she has previously visited Buxar to connect with her ancestral homeland.
Shared Culture and Celebrations
PM Modi also recalled his previous visit to the country 25 years ago. He said the bond between the two nations has become even stronger. He spoke of shared cultural traditions and religious practices.
“Navratri, Mahashivratri, and Janmashtami are celebrated here with joy and pride. Chautal and Bhaitak Gana still thrive. I see so many familiar faces and feel at home,” he said.
Modi pointed out that cities like Banaras, Patna, Delhi, and Kolkata can also be found as street names in Trinidad, reflecting the long-standing Indian influence.
Indian Community in Trinidad and Tobago
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, about 40% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population is of Indian origin.
-
Around 556,800 people in the country are of Indian descent
-
Of these, 1,800 are Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
-
The rest are descendants of indentured labourers who came between 1845 and 1917
Despite being a small island nation, smaller than Jodhpur in India, the Indian community has made significant contributions to the country’s culture, economy, food, music, and language.
Major Announcement for Indian Diaspora
During his speech, PM Modi made a key announcement:
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards will now be issued to 6th-generation Indians living in Trinidad and Tobago.
This move is expected to strengthen the sense of connection between the Indian diaspora and their ancestral homeland.
Grand Welcome in Port of Spain
PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Piarco International Airport on Thursday.
He was greeted personally by PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar, 38 ministers, and 4 Members of Parliament. A Guard of Honour was also presented in his honour.
