Trivandrum: The seventh edition of Asianet News’ prestigious “Proud to be an Indian” (PTBI) program was flagged off on 24th January 2019 by Vipul, India’s Consular General in Dubai.
Eighteen students were selected from 1800 applicants from various schools across Middle East. These students were the part of Asianet News delegation who are on a seven day-voyage passing through various important locations of historical importance in India. MG Radhakrishnan, Editor of Asianet News, led the delegation and teachers.
“Proud to be an Indian has emerged as the most inspiring project for the young generation of Indian expatriate community living in Middle East to give them a glimpse of the Indian heritage. This is also one of the first programs to be held at the Indian Consulate every year in connection to kick off the Republic day celebrations” said Vipul, felicitating the students selected for PTBI at an elegant function held at the Indian Consulate.
“Started seven years ago, Proud to be an Indian has grown stronger each year. The number of applicants we received this year is at all-time high. We started with schools only from Kerala and now we have students and schools participating from Middle East” says MG Radhakrishnan, Editor, Asianet News.
KJ Alphonse, Union Minister of State for Tourism interacted with the delegation in Delhi and said that the program immensely helps to nourish patriotic spirit among the children of Non-Resident Indian community. This interaction was held at Hotel Ashoka and was attended by RavneetKaur, CMD, ITDC and PiyushTiwari, Director, ITDC. The delegation also met Vice Admiral P Ajith Kumar, Vice Chief of Naval Staff at his official residence.
The delegation attended the Republic Day parade at Delhi and had an opportunity to experience the magnificent celebration of day when the Indian constitution was amended. Before concluding the trip, the delegation had visited Statue of Unity, Sabarmati Ashram and other historical places in Gujarat.
“Proud to be an Indian is an annual event organized by Asianet News to give a gist about India’s heritage to enthusiastic Indian students. This program usually coincides with the Republic Day and the idea is to inculcate patriotism among youth of Indian origin living abroad. Over the years we have got tremendous response from NRI’s leaving in the Middle East.” Said Amit Gupta, Managing Director and Group CEO, Asianet News Media & Entertainment Pvt Ltd.
