I am happy to note that the Indian Panorama is bringing out a fully illustrated issue to mark the 67th Republic Day of India. On this occasion, I congratulate the Indian community based in US and convey my greetings and best wishes to the readers of The Indian Panorama.

India in these 67 years of existence as a Republic has made tremendous strides at the national level as well as on the international stage. With its regular elections since 1952 and successful transfers of power, it has established an unmatched legacy as the largest democracy of the world.

In our ever complex and increasingly challenging global environment, India with its strong heritage and equally strong capabilities has been playing an important role on the world stage. Whether it is peace keeping operations of the UN or technical assistance under its development partnership program (ITEC), India has always been ready to take on her responsibilities towards both international and regional partners. Towards this end, India has proactively cooperated with the major countries of the world and built strategic partnerships both at bilateral and multilateral levels.

India-US relations have also reached a new high with cooperation extending to diverse fields such as nuclear energy, space, cyber security, counter-terrorism, science & technology, health and education as well as high level visits including two visits by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi in 2014 and 2015 and the visit of the President of the United States Mr. Barack Obama as the Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations in 2015.

The Indian Diaspora needs a special mention on this occasion. Overcoming formidable multiple challenges, over 4 million people of Indian origin have already created a strong imprint in the US. Their contributions in the fields of economic, culture, education, health and medical services, media and IT industry have been commendable and have built a strong bridge between their country of origin and their country of adoption.

Through this Special Issue of the Indian Panorama, I once again convey my greetings and best wishes to the Indian Diaspora proud and auspicious occasion of the 67th Independence Day of India.

ज्ञानेश्वर म. मुळे