On Sunday, the High Commission of India organized the Viksit Bharat run at Yellowstone Trails in Ludwigsdorf. This event was part of Seva Pakhwada, a two-week period focused on community service and civic engagement.
The run took place in over 150 cities worldwide, marking the 75th birthday of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the theme “Run to Serve the Nation.” This initiative supports India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
India’s High Commissioner to Namibia, Rahul Shrivastava, emphasized the meaning behind Viksit Bharat. “Viksit means ‘develop,’ and Bharat represents India. Our goal is to ensure that by 2047, India is a developed country,” he said. He pointed out that the diaspora’s involvement is essential for this growth.
In Windhoek, participants engaged in a 3km run/walk, where they took pledges for Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). This reinforced their commitment to a self-sufficient India. After the run, a tree-planting ceremony highlighted environmental responsibility.
Shrivastava noted the impressive turnout, with nearly one-fourth of the Indian community in Namibia participating, including many children. “This event helps remind us of our shared goals and strengthens our connections,” he remarked. The enthusiastic participation, despite the early start, showed the commitment of the Indian diaspora and their friends to this vision.
Such initiatives, according to the High Commission, not only bolster pride in cultural heritage but also build a supportive network among the global Indian community. This sense of purpose goes beyond geography, fostering a shared commitment to India’s future.
As India aims for significant growth, studies show that the diaspora’s influence is crucial. According to a report by the World Bank, Indian migrants contributed approximately $83 billion in remittances in 2020, vital for the nation’s economy and development. Engaging the diaspora through events like the Viksit Bharat run is an effective way to harness this potential.
