Indians celebrate 56th Independence Anniversary

Accra, Aug. 15, GNA - Indians from all walks of life in Ghana, waving their national flag on Friday congregated at the High Commissioner's residence in Accra to celebrate their 56th Independence Anniversary.

The residence was beautifully decorated with miniature Indian Tricolour National Flag and the audience including Ghanaians were treated to harmonious India melodies and patriotic songs. The High Commissioner, Mr Kaikhosrou K. Framji hoisted the Indian National Flag, which fluttered in the wind, and read excerpts from President, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam's Anniversary speech titled: "What should we be remembered for?"

President Kalam appealed to political and religious leaders and media personnel to place a moratorium on all issues that were impediments to national development.

"We have to priorities our thoughts on national development and make all other issues as 'non-issues".

This, he said, would ensure focus and thrust for the development process, and also prevent dissipation of energy and resources on non-productive issues.

"This would be the greatest legacy that we can proudly leave behind for our next generation. Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow," President Kalam emphasised.

Other issues that the Indian President raised in his address included, aspirations of the people, the economy, vision, provision of urban amenities in rural areas such as Information Communication Technology (ICT); transformation of the tourism sector; enrichment of villages as well as challenges they faced as a nation and the Government's tasks ahead.

The Indian President also appealed to Parliamentarians to become mission facilitators for their constituencies and resolve inter and intra constituency conflicts.

On the eradication of corruption, he identified the contributions of three key societal members as vital; they are the father, the mother and the teacher.

President Kalam said; "if a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel the three institutions can make a difference".

He, therefore, called for the launching of a crusade from the home and the schools to eradicate corruption. 15 Aug. 03