PM’s VISIT TO TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Context:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Trinidad and Tobago highlighted the historical journey and significant contributions of the Indian community in the Caribbean nation, emphasizing their resilience and cultural heritage.
INDIAN COMMUNITY IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
- Historical Roots:
- The Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago largely comprises descendants of ‘Girmitiyas’ – indentured labourers from British India.
- ‘Girmitiya’ is derived from “girmit,” an Indian pronunciation of “agreement,” referring to the contracts signed by these laborers.
- These laborers were transported to work on plantations (e.g., sugar) in various British colonies, including Fiji, South Africa, Mauritius, and the Caribbean (Trinidad and Tobago, British Guiana, Suriname, Jamaica) as part of the Indian indenture system from 1845 to 1917.
- They primarily came from Northern India, especially the Gangetic plains (present-day Uttar Pradesh and Bihar), but also from other parts of the subcontinent like the Madras Presidency.
- Despite immense hardships, they persevered, carrying their cultural and spiritual heritage (e.g., “Ramayana in their hearts”).
CURRENT DEMOGRAPHICS
- People of Indian origin constitute approximately 45% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population (approx. 13 lakh).
- Their contributions have enriched Trinidad and Tobago culturally, economically, and spiritually.
- Descendants of Girmitiyas are now prominent figures in all walks of life, including politics, business, law, and medicine.
EMINENT INDIAN ORIGIN FIGURES
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar: Hailed by PM Modi as “Bihar ki Beti,” her ancestors hailed from Buxar, Bihar.
- She is the first female Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago and has visited her ancestral village.
- President Christine Carla Kangaloo: Also of Indian descent, her ancestors were from Tamil Nadu.
- These figures exemplify the success, service, and values of the diaspora, having risen from a history of struggle.
INDIA T&T RELATIONS
- Deep-Rooted & Historical Ties: The relationship extends beyond geography and generations, built on the strong foundation of the Indian diaspora.
- “Rashtradoots” (Ambassadors of India): PM Modi highlighted the Indian diaspora as “Rashtradoots,” carrying India’s values, culture, and heritage globally.
- Growing Economic Engagement: India is projected to be among the top three economies globally, offering opportunities that aim to be of mutual benefit to the world.
- High-Level Visits and Recognition:
- PM Modi’s current visit is the first Indian bilateral visit at the prime ministerial level to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999.
- He was accorded a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour by PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar upon arrival.
- PM Modi is slated to be conferred with ‘The Order of Trinidad and Tobago’, the Caribbean nation’s highest honour, symbolizing the deep friendship.
- Cultural Exchange: The warm reception, traditional Bhojpuri Chautaal performance, and PM Modi’s gesture of bringing a replica of the Ram Mandir and holy water from India underline the strong cultural bonds.
CONCLUSION
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago underscored the extraordinary journey of the Indian community, from the hardships faced by the Girmitiya ancestors to their current prominence. This strong people-to-people connection forms the bedrock of a robust bilateral relationship, which the visit aims to further strengthen through high-level engagements and mutual recognition, contributing to India’s broader global outreach.
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