Speech by the
Ambassador of India on ICCR Day - 2026
[April 9,
2026]
His Excellency Mr.
Ahliddin Ibodullozoda, Rector of the Tajik State Pedagogical University,
Hon’ble Mr. Mubirkhon
Muminpur, Vice Rector on International Relations issues,
Dear Esteemed Members of
the ICCR alumni in Tajikistan,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Shom Ba Khair! Namaskar! Good
evening!
It gives me great
pleasure to address you today on the occasion of the 77th anniversary of the
Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarship Programme.
For over seven
decades, ICCR has been one of India’s flagship initiatives in promoting
international friendship, cultural exchange, and educational cooperation.
Through this programme, India has welcomed thousands of students from across
the world, offering them the opportunity to pursue higher education in a
diverse and vibrant academic environment.
India today is
recognized as a global education hub, offering a wide range of academic
disciplines—from engineering and technology to humanities, arts, and cultural
studies.
Each year, ICCR
awards thousands of scholarships to students from more than 180 countries,
enabling them to study at leading universities and institutions across India.
Excellencies, dear
friends, I am particularly pleased to note the growing participation of
students from Tajikistan in this programme. On average, around 50 students from
Tajikistan receive ICCR scholarships every year, reflecting the strong
educational ties between our two countries. Last year alone, 28 students from
Tajikistan were selected to pursue their studies in India under this
prestigious programme.
These students are
not only pursuing academic excellence but also becoming ambassadors of
friendship between India and Tajikistan. They experience India’s rich cultural
heritage, democratic values, and spirit of diversity, while also sharing their
own traditions and perspectives.
The ICCR Scholarship
Programme is more than just an educational opportunity—it is a bridge between
nations, fostering mutual understanding, people-to-people connections, and
long-term partnerships.
We are proud that
many alumni of ICCR in Tajikistan have gone on to become distinguished
professionals, contributing meaningfully to their country’s development and
strengthening bilateral relations.
India remains
committed to further expanding educational cooperation with Tajikistan. We
believe that investing in youth, knowledge, and cultural exchange is the most
sustainable way to build a shared future.
I encourage young
students of Tajikistan to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by
ICCR and to become part of this vibrant and enriching journey.
In conclusion, I
extend my heartfelt congratulations on the 77th anniversary of ICCR and wish
continued success to this remarkable programme. I would also like to thank the
management of the Pedagogical University named after Sadriddin Ayni, for
providing a wonderful venue for the event.
Thank you.
***
