The President of India, His Excellency Pranab Mukherjee has called on its citizens both home and abroad “to protect the honour of women from violence” and also fight the menace of terrorism that has engulfed the country.

India celebrates its 66^th Republic Day on 26^th January and a colourful event was held to mark the day at the Indian House in Accra.  Pupils from Delhi Public School (DPS) International in Tema dressed in traditional Indian attire showcased rich music and cultural dance performances.

Addressing the Indian community in Ghana through a speech on behalf of the Indian President, the Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, K. Jeeva Sagar underscored the need to end the numerous atrocities meted out to women. He said women should be seen as “deities of the household fire and flame to the soul” and demanded a more proactive effort to protect women.

There have been several cases of rape, murder, harassment, kidnapping and dowry deaths which have caused unrest in India in recent years.

Indian cultural performance by DPS pupils

He also enjoined every individual to exercise religious and cultural tolerance wherever they find themselves and emphasized Hindi values which teach faith equality and cultural blend to create a positive dynamism.

The President advised Indians, especially the youth to strive for the highest quality in education with stress on science, technology and communication to make India the leader of the 21^st century.

Meanwhile, High Commissioner Jeeva Sagar has entreated the over 10,000 Indians in Ghana to be law abiding and maintain high standards in all their endeavours to contribute positively to Ghana’s economy.

He stated that the relationship between Ghana and India has been very positive with mutual successes.

He said his country has contributed to numerous businesses and investments that have created employment in Ghana. Some scholarships and capacity building programs have also been spearheaded by India, he stated.

Mr. Mukesh Thakwani, CEO of B5 Plus and Director for DPS wished Indians a happy republic day and called on all Indians to remain united and abide by the country’s laws.

Indian High Commissioner Jeeva Sagar (R) and Mr. Mukesh Thakwani Director for DPS (L)

He said Ghana has been a hospitable home and encouraged his colleagues to strive for success.  He appealed for more investments in various industries and education to contribute to the development of the country.

B5 Plus Limited employs over 1400 Ghanaians and Mr. Thakwani said the solution to having a successful country is by industrialization and education.