Ministry of External Affairs Government of India

India@75: Ambassador's Presentation on India's Foreign Policy at Vietnam Peace and Development Foundation (18 March 2021)

Embassy of India kicked off the 75th anniversary celebrations of Indian Independence (India@75) with an event showcasing an interactive presentation by Ambassador Pranay Verma on “India’s Foreign Policy in the New Context” organized by the Vietnam Peace and Development Foundation (VPDF) in Hanoi on 18 March 2021. Former Justice Minister of Vietnam and President of VPDF, Dr. Ha Hung Cuong, Former Vice Foreign Minister Amb. Doan Xuan Hung and over thirty Vietnamese foreign policy experts and former and current diplomats attended the event. The Foundation, established by former Vice President of Vietnam, Madam Nguyen Thi Binh in 2003, is one of the foremost public diplomacy platforms in Vietnam with a wide cross-section of experts from foreign affairs, academia and business, including many who went to India for higher studies.

India@75: 1st India-Vietnam Virtual Workshop on Coastal Erosion and Protection (24 March 2021)

I am happy to join this Virtual Workshop on the issue of Coastal Erosion and Protection, being organised jointly by India’s National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the Vietnam Administration of Seas and Islands (VASI) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Vietnam (MONRE). The event has been made possible due to our growing engagement with MONRE and VASI, and the keen interest shown by our NCCR and Ministry of Earth Sciences in taking forward some of the initial ideas discussed by the Embassy with VASI. We sincerely thank both NCCR and VASI for their active support. Today’s workshop is also part of our long tradition of capacity building partnership with Vietnam. As a close friend and partner, we always stand ready to share our developmental experiences with Vietnam. In addition, this initiative is reflective of the depth and width of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, where we are engaging with Vietnam in multi-faceted collaborations, including in science and technology, IT, civil nuclear energy, space applications, etc. Our maritime exchanges add an important dimension to our engagement. India and Vietnam are maritime countries with long coastlines. The quality of our coastal and marine ecologies, therefore, have a direct bearing on our nations’ socio-economic development, given the support they provide for habitat and livelihood to a large section of our population. Impact of climate change and other factors have created new challenges in preserving and protecting our marine environment. Coastal erosion is one of those challenges. The workshop today, therefore in a way, is also a manifestation of our emerging cooperation with Vietnam in climate change adaptation and meeting sustainable development goals. Today’s discussions will also fit in well with India’s Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative (IPOI) which was announced by our Prime Minister at the East Asia Summit in 2019. The IPOI provides a detailed template for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, foremost with our ASEAN partners, for solutions to common challenges being faced by our region. To translate this vision of collaboration into practical action, the IPOI provides for partnership-based cooperation across seven verticals – maritime ecology; maritime security; marine resources; capacity building & resource sharing; disaster risk reduction and management; science, technology and academic cooperation; and trade, connectivity and maritime transport. Our discussions today touch upon many of those pillars – most obviously, the pillars of maritime ecology, capacity building, and Science and Technology. However, we believe that issues like coastal erosion, which can result in loss of habitat and threats to water resources, are equally part of the non-traditional challenges to our maritime security. We are happy that ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), which is broadly similar to our Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. The four priority areas of ASEAN’s AOIP – which are maritime partnerships, Sustainable Development Goals, connectivity, and economic partnership – overlap very nicely with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. We are hopeful that the convergences between ASEAN’s AOIP and India’s IPOI will provide a useful roadmap to deepen our cooperation in many areas of our shared maritime interests. I am happy that today we are making a beginning in that direction. The workshop today will give experts on both sides an opportunity to have an in-depth exchange to deal with coastal erosion and related complexities. We also hope that today’s event leads to more concrete ideas about practical cooperation in this field by exchanging information and best practices, as well as for continuing our engagement in other areas. To ensure the sustainability of these engagements, we are happy that both NCCR and VASI are exploring a long-term cooperation MOU, which will generate opportunities for more collaborative projects. Our Embassy will extend all necessary facilitation to ensure that this MOU is concluded at the earliest. To this end, we look forward to working closely with VASI and MONRE in the coming days. We are also happy that this important initiative is being rolled out at the beginning of an important year, when we are going to celebrate or prepare for celebration three important milestones – the 5th anniversary of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam, the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations in January 2022 and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. I once again commend NRRC and VASI and all their experts present today, either in person or on-line, for your efforts and time to make today’s event possible. I wish you all a productive and rewarding discussion.

India@75: Embassy Marks Celebration of the Festival of Color at USSH (25 March 2021)India@75: Embassy Marks Celebration of the Festival of Color at USSH (25 March 2021)

Embassy of India, Hanoi in association with Indian Department of Oriental Studies Faculty, in University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi (USSH) celebrated Holi Festival 2021. The event took place in the University campus on 25 March 2021. Deputy Chief of the Mission Shree Subhash P. Gupta gave inaugural address and presentation on the significance of Holi Festival both from cultural and agricultural perspective. Dean of the Oriental Faculty of USSH Dr. Le Thi Thu Giang read the message of the University’s Rector for this occasion. Dr. G. B. Harisha, Director of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Thu Ha, Head of Indian Department of Oriental Studies Faculty of USSH and Smt. Rachna Srivastav, First Secretary (Consular) participated in the festival. Students of the department performed songs to Indian rhythm. Video songs related to Holi Festival celebration in India were shared with the students to give them an understanding of this important cultural festival of India. This festival was celebrated as a part of India@75 ongoing series of events.

India@75: Webinar on Ayurveda: A Secret to Healthy Life (30-31 March 21)

On 31st March 2021, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi (SVCC) organized the last session of the International Webinar "Ayurveda: A Secret to Healthy Life". Dr. Shivakumar S. Harti - Associate Professor of Department of Swasthavriita (Preventive and social Medicine), All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi - introduced to audience the topic “Ayurveda Ahara: Dietetics”. Afterwards, Dr. Prasanth Dharamrajan - Assistant Professor of Department of Panchakarma (Penta Bio-purification Methods), AIIA, New Delhi – delivered his presentation on “Ayurveda for Detoxification”. The International Webinar was organized as a part of India@75. The webinar was moderated by Dr. Namrata Raj, Teacher of Indian Culture of SVCC, Hanoi. Let’s rewatch the wonderful moments of the session via this link: https://fb.watch/4zW3vAJXvj/

Interaction on India’s Economic Development Plan for 2021-22

As part of the series of activities to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, the Embassy of India organised an interactive session on India’s Annual Budget (Blueprint for Socio-economic Development) for 2021-22 at the Embassy premises on 8 April 2021 to present the socio-economic development priorities of India for the next one year and the opportunities they would create for economic partnership with Vietnam. Addressing the event, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the many transformative steps taken by the Government of India in the annual economic plan to bring the socio-economic development of India on a rapid growth trajectory after the impact of #COVID19. He highlighted that India’s aspiration to become a US$5 trillion economy over the next five years and Vietnam’s ambitions to become a developed economy by 2045 will create many synergies for cooperation between them in areas such as digital economy, sustainable development, innovation etc. and for linkages between start-up and Small and Medium enterprises of the two countries. During the interactive session, participants also discussed potential opportunities for cooperation between enterprises of India and Vietnam in specific areas like new technologies, pharmaceuticals, environmental solutions, green technologies and healthcare sector, including medical tourism. Ambassador underlined India’s desire to partner with Vietnam by offering Openness, Options and Opportunities to Vietnam’s enterprises.

Ambassador's Visit to Hong Ha Shipyard

As part of ongoing defence industrial cooperation between India and Vietnam, twelve High Speed Guard Boats are being built for Vietnam Border Guard Command under the US$ 100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by Government of India. The first of these vessels was launched at the time of the Virtual Summit held between Prime Ministers of India and Vietnam on 21 December 2020. Ambassador Pranay Verma was invited by the General Department of Defence Industry of Vietnam under the Ministry of National Defence to the Hong Ha Shipyard at Hai Phong on 9 April 2021 to launch and lay keel for two out of the seven vessels being manufactured in Vietnam. In his remarks at the event, Ambassador described the project as an icon of India-Vietnam Defence Partnership and reflecting India’s commitment towards defence industry cooperation with Vietnam and capacity building of Vietnam’s defence forces. He noted the importance of the project as it coincided with preparations to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of India’s Independence and 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations. The project also showcases India’s domestic capabilities under #AatmaNirbharBharat bringing benefits to international partners.

Celebration of 130th Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

As India marks the 75th year of its Independence, the Embassy family, joined by friends from Vietnam, paid tributes to Dr. B.R #Ambedkar on his 130th birth anniversary on 14 April 2021, remembering with gratitude a key architect of India’s Constitution and his seminal contributions to the cause of equality, justice and people’s empowerment.

Ambassador's Visit to Vietnam National University, Hanoi

As part of Embassy's outreach to mark the 75th anniversary of India's Independence, Ambassador Pranay visited the Vietnam National University (VNU) in Hanoi on 15 April 2021 and spoke to the students on contemporary developments in India and India-Vietnam relations. Ambassador also presented certificates to VNU students who successfully completed the e-ITEC course launched at VNU in partnership with Indian Institute of Technology, Madras in October 2019 in Big Data Analytics and R-programming. Vice President of VNU, Prof. Dr. Pham Bao Son joined Ambassador during the event along with other senior faculty members.

India@75: Presentation on "Reemergence of India: Retrospect and Prospect" at USSH, Hanoi

On 23 April, under #IndiaAt75 lecture series, Deputy Chief of Mission, Subhash Gupta made a presentation on ‘’Reemergence of India: Retrospect & Prospect” at University of Social Science and Humanities, Hanoi. https://www.facebook.com/IndiaInVietnam/photos/a.4170385469694438/3996950787037908

India@75: Ambassador's Presentation at HCMNAP on 5 Years of CSP.

Continuing with Embassy's outreach to mark the 75 years of India's Independence, Ambassador Pranay Verma made a presentation on the Five Years of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership at the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics - Vietnam's premier institution for training of senior Party and State officials - on 20 April 2021. Vice President of HCMNAP, Associate Prof. Dr. Duong Trung Y, along with senior scholars, researchers and officials from the Academy and other leading thinktanks of Vietnam participated. Ambassador presented the multifaceted developments in India-Vietnam relations since their elevation to the level of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Vietnam in 2016. Ambassador also underlined the bright prospects for the future of this long-standing partnership guided by the Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity and People adopted by the Prime Ministers of the two countries during their recent Virtual Summit and driven by the growing capabilities of both India and Vietnam.

Tribute paid to Gurudev Rabindernath Tagore on his 160th Birth Anniversary

The Embassy family paid tributes to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore on his 160th birth anniversary on 7 May. As India's poet laureate and author of India's National Anthem, Gurudev Tagore became the voice of India’s national awakening and spiritual heritage as his poetry influenced generations. He was a polymath, poet, writer, composer, social reformer and India's first Nobel Laureate. Gurudev Tagore’s visit to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) in June 1929 was an important landmark in India-Vietnam ties in the 20th century, demonstrating mutual solidarity during our freedom struggle. Many of Gurudev Tagore’s poems have since been translated into Vietnamese. As part of celebrations to mark his 160th birth anniversary, the Embassy also organized an online talk by the Vietnamese academician Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Mai Lien, Head of Foreign Literature Studies Department, Hanoi National University of Education in which she recalled Gurudev Tagore's seminal role in the cultural renaissance that accompanied India’s freedom struggle against the colonial power.

India@75: Introduction to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), Hanoi organized online talk “Introduction to Yoga Sutra of Patanjali” on 13th May 2021. In ancient time, Sage Patanjali introduced the wisdom and practice of Yoga at different levels for the welfare of mankind through his Yoga Sutras. Audience had the opportunity to understand the topic through presentations by Dr. Namrata Raj, Teacher of Indian Culture (SVCC) and later by Dr. G.B. Harisha, Director (SVCC). This event was part of International Day of Yoga 2021. Let’s rewatch the wonderful moments of the session via this link: https://fb.watch/5sxR3yhXg3/

India@75: Webinar on “Philosophy in Vedas and Upanishads” (07 July 2021)

Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi in cooperation with Institute for Religious Studies (IRS) of Vietnam organized the Webinar on “Philosophy in Vedas and Upanishads” on 07th July 2021. This programme is the first webinar of the Indian Philosophy Series, and is also a part of the India@75 programme towards the Independence Day of India. The programme began with presentation by Prof. Dr. Shrinivasa Varakhedi - Vice Chancellor of Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Maharashtra and acting Vice-chancellor of Gondwana University, Gadchiroli on “Philosophy in the Vedas and Upanishads”. He talked about the structure and importance of Vedas and overview about Indic philosophies. It was followed by presentation on “Vedic studies: Indic approach and Eurocentric studies” by Dr. G.B. Harisha, Author & Director of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi. He explained the topic through example of Sri Aurobindo for lndic approach and Max Muller for Euro-centric approach to Vedas. The webinar was concluded with the discussion session between speakers and audiences

India@75: Webinar on “Philosophy in Vedas and Upanishads” (07 July 2021)

Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi in cooperation with Institute for Religious Studies (IRS) of Vietnam organized the Webinar on “Philosophy in Vedas and Upanishads” on 07th July 2021. This programme is the first webinar of the Indian Philosophy Series, and is also a part of the India@75 programme towards the Independence Day of India. The programme began with presentation by Prof. Dr. Shrinivasa Varakhedi - Vice Chancellor of Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Maharashtra and acting Vice-chancellor of Gondwana University, Gadchiroli on “Philosophy in the Vedas and Upanishads”. He talked about the structure and importance of Vedas and overview about Indic philosophies. It was followed by presentation on “Vedic studies: Indic approach and Eurocentric studies” by Dr. G.B. Harisha, Author & Director of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi. He explained the topic through example of Sri Aurobindo for lndic approach and Max Muller for Euro-centric approach to Vedas. The webinar was concluded with the discussion session between speakers and audiences

India@75: Online Talk on “History of Indian Food”. (15 July 2021)

On 15th July 2021, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), Hanoi in cooperation with Vietnam – India Friendship Association of Hanoi organized the Online Talk on “History of Indian Food”. This programme is a part of “Series on India’s Gift to the world” and is also part of the India@75. The programme began opening remarks by Dr. G.B. Harisha, Director of SVCC, Hanoi. It was then followed by presentation on “History of Indian Food & Ayurveda” by Dr. Sadhanashree P., M.D (Ayurveda), Founder, Consultant, Arogyavardhini Ayurvedalaya, Bengaluru, India. Afterwards, Madame Phan Lan Tú, Chairwoman of Vietnam – India Friendship Association of Hanoi delivered her remarks on the presentation and discussed on the topic. The Talk was concluded with the discussion session between speakers and audiences.

India@75: Webinar on Struggle for Freedom series - Cultural Nationalism of India Phase I

On 22/07/2021 Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi in cooperation with the Center for Indian Studies, Ho Chi Minh, National Academy of Politics organized a webinar on Struggle for Freedom series - Cultural Nationalism of India Phase I. The webinar is part of a series of events commemorating the historic milestone, the 75th Anniversary of India’s independence as a Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Mr. Vũ Thế Cường, Deputy Director, Center for Indian Studies, Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, Dr. Suresha K.C, Assistant Professor, DOSR Public Administration Tumkur University and Dr. G.B. Harisha, Author & Director, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi gave presentations on this occasion.

India@75: Online Lecture on “Understanding India through Kannada language” (29 July 2021)

On 29th July 2021, Embassy of India, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi in cooperation with Department of Indian Studies, Faculty of Oriental Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities of Hanoi organized the Webinar on “Understanding India through Kannada language”. This programme was a part of Culture through the Lenses of Indian Languages Series, marking India@75. The opening presentation on “Understanding India through Kannada language” was made by Dr. T.N. Vasudeva Murthy, Author, Translator & Assistant Professor, Jyoti Nivas College, Karnataka, India. It was then followed by presentation of Dr. G.B. Harisha, Author & Director of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi. Afterwards, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Thu Ha, Indian Studies Department, Faculty of Oriental Studies of University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi delivered her remarks on the presentation and discussed on the topic. The webinar was concluded with the discussion.

Ambassador joins ISCS Webinar (6th May 2021)

Ambassador spoke at a webinar on "India-Vietnam Conjunctions: Connect to Reconnect" organised by the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies (ISCS), Kolkata in partnership with the Economic Diplomacy and States Division of MEA and the MEA Branch Secretariat, Kolkata on 6 May 2021. Ambassador noted the significance of connectivity across its various manifestations as part of emerging and future ties between India and Vietnam and highlighted efforts on both sides to enhance physical, digital and societal connections.

India@75: India-Vietnam Buddhist Linkages

As part of our series of events to commemorate India-Vietnam Buddhist Linkages and to celebrate #IndiaAt75, our Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre invited on-line two eminent experts in Buddhism from Vietnam — Most Venerable Thích Thọ Lạc, Head of Cultural Committee, Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and Dr. Phan Anh Tú, Director of Center for Theoretical and Applied Culturology, University of Social Sciences & Humanities, Ho Chi Minh City. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the importance of Buddhist linkages in India-Vietnam civilizational and cultural contacts and its relevance in the contemporary times. The Vietnamese scholars, in their presentation, traced the Buddhist influences from India which became part of local cultural and social fabric.

Ambassador meets Minister of National Defence of Vietnam (1st June 2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma met the Minister of National Defence of Vietnam, His Excellency Sr. Lt. Gen. Phan Van Giang on June 1, 2021 and congratulated him on assuming his new position. They exchanged views on various aspects of India-Vietnam defence partnership and expressed satisfaction over continued positive momentum in bilateral defence engagements despite the disruptions caused by COVID19. They underlined the importance attached by both sides to development of closer defence cooperation between the two countries as a key pillar of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Webinar on India-Vietnam Cooperation in ICT (18th June 2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma addressed an online event co-organized on 18 June 2021 by the Embassy of India in Hanoi with the Electronic and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) of India on “Fostering India-Vietnam Cooperation in ICT”. Ambassador highlighted the enhanced relevance of the ICT and digital technology in the current context and the new opportunities for partnership created by the strong vision of both India and Vietnam for development of ITC sector and Industry 4.0. The event was joined by more than 50 IT companies and industry representatives from both sides, including the Indian Business Chamber (INCHAM) in Hanoi and Vietnam Software and IT Services Association (VINASA).

India@75: 7th International Day of Yoga (20th June 2021)

Embassy of India, Hanoi kicked off the International Day of Yoga celebrations in Vietnam on 20 June 2021 at an event at the Embassy premises with limited participation in line with the current local COVID-19 restrictions in Vietnam. In addition, the Embassy and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi have launched a series of on-line Common Yoga Protocol sessions with some prominent local organizations.

Online International Conference on Indo-Pacific (23rd June 2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma delivered the valedictory address at an online International Conference on Indo-Pacific Construct on 23 June 2021 hosted by the UGC Centre for Southeast Asian and Pacific Studies at Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, in partnership with ICWA, VIISAS and VIT Business School, Vellore. In his remarks, Ambassador presented the key elements of India's Indo-Pacific Vision and their salience in India-Vietnam partnership. The three-day conference was joined by a number of strategic experts and scholars from both India and Vietnam.

India@75: ASEAN-India Hackathon Prize Distribution at Embassy (7th July 2021)

On 7 July 2021, Embassy of India held a small get-together with winning students from Vietnam who had participated in the ASEAN-India Hackathon. Ambassador Pranay Verma handed over the prize money to 16 students, who came from three universities of Vietnam – Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), Thai Nguyen University of Information and Communication Technology and FPT University. Senior officials of the universities and

India@75: ‘Vande Bharat Quiz’ organized by Embassy (9th July 2021)

As part of our series of events to celebrate India@75, the Embassy hosted an online “Vande Bharat Quiz” on 9 July 2021 with participation of young students in the age group 9-15. Twenty students from the Indian community in Vietnam participated in the quiz. Ambassador Pranay Verma interacted with the participants before the event and encouraged them to learn more about India and connect with their roots through this series of quiz programmes that the Embassy plans to host in the coming months as we enter the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence.

On-line Event to Introduce WHO mYoga App (15th July 2021)

At an on-line event organized by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi on 15 July 2021 to introduce the new WHO mYoga App, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the App as a major step towards wider access to quality instructions in Yoga through the digital platform and encouraged participants at the event to use and promote the App. He hoped that the popularity of Yoga in Vietnam would receive further boost with the new App. The mYoga App, developed through collaboration between India’s Ministry of AYUSH and the World Health Organization (WHO), was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on the occasion of the 7th International Day of Yoga on 21 June 2021. The App is aimed at spreading Yoga across the world and contribute to the efforts of ‘One World, One Health’.

Tribute Paid to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore and Online Lecture organised during Amrit Mahotsav Celebrations by EoI, Hanoi ( May 2021)

1. Tribute Paid to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore on His 160th Birth Anniversary (7 May 2021); 2. Online Lecture on Ajanta Paintings (17 May 2021)

IDY Celebrations, educational seminar and Screening of Yoga Documentaries were organised during Amrit Mahotsav Celebrations by CGI, Ho Chi Minh City (June 05-30, 2021)

1. As run-up to the 7th IDY celebrations, Consulate organized ‘Home Yoga Challenge – Be Healthy Be You’ Video Blogging Contest. Total 51 entries were received in the contest. The videos were judged by Teacher of Indian Culture, Embassy of India, Hanoi and top three winners will be felicitated by the Consulate; 2. Quiz Competition on Yoga was organized by the Consulate. Total 124 yoga enthusiasts participated in the quiz competition; 3. Screening of Yoga Documentaries; 4. As a curtain raiser, Consulate along with the support of Can Tho City Union of Friendship Organization (CUFO), celebrated virtually the 7th IDY with participation of 8 provinces of Mekong Delta Region where around 175 people including Chairwoman, CUFO and other dignitaries joined online for the event. The event had enthusiastic participation from Vietnamese yoga practitioners; 5. The 7th International Day of Yoga was celebrated at the Chancery premises. Keeping in mind, the strict restrictions imposed by the HCMC government on 19th June 2021, the gathering to attend the event was reduced to 10 persons from the earlier 20. The whole event was live streamed on Consulate’s FB page and more than 200 yoga enthusiasts from HCMC and around 5 neighbouring provinces joined the event via zoom call. The IDY was celebrated in collaboration with Art of Living and Vietnam Yoga Federation. In his remarks, Consul General mentioned about the importance of Yoga and its beneficial effects during normal and difficult times. On the occasion, a yoga book ‘Patanjali Yoga Sutras (Kinh Yoga Cua Patanjali)’ authored by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and translated by Ms. Kim Lang Le was also jointly released; 6. Consulate in cooperation with the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management of Economics and Finance (UEF), HCMC and Shri Ramasamy Memorial (SRM) University Sikkim, India organized a 3 hours virtual seminar on ‘Emerging Trends in Hospitality and Tourism Industry in India and Vietnam’. About 50 lecturers, research scholars and students from India and Ho Chi Minh City joined the webinar; 7. Consulate along with the support of Yoga Confederation of Dak Lak Province and Khanh Hoa Province organized virtual 7th IDY celebrations for the provinces in Central Highland Region. Around 300 yoga enthusiasts from around 6 provinces in the Central Highland region participated in the online event; 8. Consulate organized a virtual education seminar bringing together experts from NCERT and Hoang Le Kha Gifted School in Tay Ninh Province, Vietnam for furthering educational cooperation between India and Tay Ninh Province.

India@75: Webinar on Gurudev Tagore (9 Aug 2021)

To mark the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav and the 80th death anniversary of India's poet laureate Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Culture Centre organized a webinar on “Gurudev Tagore and Indian Nationalism” on 09 August 2021. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the contributions of Gurudev Tagore to India's national movement and cultural awakening. He also recalled Gurudev Tagore's visit to Vietnam in June 1929 which was a landmark event in contemporary relations between India and Vietnam and demonstrated their mutual solidarity during their freedom struggles. Two well-known experts on Gurudev Tagore's life and works, Assistant Professor Dr. Ajeet Kumar from Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi and Associate Professor Dr. Pham Xuan Thach, Dean of the Faculty of Literature, University of Social Sciences & Humanities, Hanoi were the invited speakers. The webinar is part of a series of events commemorating the 75th Anniversary of India’s Independence as #AzadikaAmritMahotsav.

India@75: Special Webinar on “India At 75” to mark India’s 75th Independence Day

As part of the series of events to mark the 75th Independence Day of India and to celebrate the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, Ambassador Pranay Verma hosted a Special Webinar on “India At 75” on 12 August 2021. His Excellency Nguyen Quoc Dzung, Vice Foreign Minister of Vietnam delivered the keynote address. Twelve speakers, including senior dignitaries from Government of Vietnam, former Ambassadors of India and Vietnam, leaders of friendship and social organizations, experts from Vietnamese thinktanks and academia, cultural personalities and members of Indian diaspora joined the discussions that encompassed multiple dimensions of India-Vietnam relations in the context of “India At 75”. Vietnamese dignitaries congratulated the people and Government of India on the momentous occasion of India’s 75th Independence Day, appreciated India’s achievements over the last 75 years and affirmed confidence in the future development of India and the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

India@75: Webinar on "India as an Emerging Global Power and its Relationship with Vietnam"

At a webinar titled – “India as an Emerging Global Power and its Relationship with Vietnam” - organised by the Consulate General of India in HCM City on 13 August 2021, two of India’s leading experts on international relations – Ambassador Shyam Saran and Prof. S. D. Muni – spoke on the significance and prospects of India-Vietnam relations in the context of India’s foreign policy over the last 75 years. From the Vietnamese side, former Ambassador to India, Prof. Ton Sinh Thanh and Prof. Hoang Van Viet from University of Social Sciences and Humanity, HCM City made presentations. Ambassador Pranay Verma delivered the opening remarks highlighting the significance of the webinar at a time when India was celebrating its 75th Independence Day and as India and Vietnam prepare to mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. He underlined Vietnam's importance in India's Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. Consul General of India, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi offered the Vote of Thanks. Nearly 300 participants attended the webinar.

India@75: 75th Independence Day Celebrations

75th Independence Day Celebrations at EOI Hanoi

India@75: Vande Bharat Quiz 2.0 - 15 Aug 2021

To mark #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, the Embassy organised on the 75th Independence Day of India on 15 August 2021, the second edition of the online “Vande Bharat Quiz” with young students in the age group of 7-17 years. The theme of the quiz was “India’s Freedom Struggle”. Twenty students from the Indian community in Vietnam participated online. Ambassador interacted with them before the event and encouraged them to seek inspiration from the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters. The first edition of the Vande Bharat quiz was held on 9 July 2021. The Embassy will hold a series of #VandeBharatQuiz programmes on various themes related to India in the coming months as part of the celebration of #AmritMahotsav.

India@75: Visit of INS Ranvijay and Kora to Vietnam (15-18 Aug 2021)

On the occasion of India’s #75thIndependenceDay, two Indian Naval Ships, INS RANVIJAY and INS KORA made port call at Cam Ranh International Port in Vietnam from 15-18 August 2021. The ship visits were part of India-Vietnam defence exchanges and the operational deployment of the Indian Navy to the Southeast Asia and Indo-Pacific region. After completing the three-day port call at Cam Ranh, the ships also held bilateral maritime exercise with Vietnam People’s Navy frigate VPNS Ly Thai To (HQ-012) on 18 August 2021.

India@75: Webinar on “Cultural Meet between India and Vietnam (18 Aug 2021)

Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City organized a webinar on “Cultural Meet Between India & Vietnam” on 18th August, 2021 to highlight the cultural and historical connection between the two countries. Ambassador Pranay Verma, in his opening remarks, pointed out the age-old civilisational connect between India and Vietnam, including the direct Buddhist influence which came from India as well as the discovery of Indian cultural icons in My Son. Dr. Amarjeeva Lochan, Deputy Dean of International Relations, University of Delhi, made a presentation highlighting the Indian social and cultural influence in Vietnam. Assoc. Prof. Dang Van Thang, Head of Faculty of Archeology, HCMC USSH-cum-Standing Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City Historical Science Association, elaborated on recent archaeological excavations and restoration of Hindu relics in My Son sanctuary whereas Dr. Phan Anh Tu, Director, Center for Theoretical and Applied Culturology, HCMC USSH & Dr. Le Thi Hang Nga, Deputy Editor in Chief, Journal for Indian and Asian Studies, Vietnam Institute of Indian and Southwest Asian Studies, mentioned about the Hindu temples in Vietnam and how the people-to-people contact and friendship of President Ho Chi Minh and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru have deepened the cultural linkage between the two countries. Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General offered the Vote of Thanks. The webinar was attended by nearly 300 participants.

India@75: Webinar on “India-Vietnam Cultural Confluence: The Heritage of Oc Eo and Champa Cultures" (20 Aug 2021)

Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Culture Centre in Hanoi organized a webinar on “India-Vietnam Cultural Confluence: The Heritage of Oc Eo and Champa Cultures” on 20 August 2021. The webinar is part of a series of events commemorating the #75thIndependence Day of India and Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Ambassador Pranay Verma gave opening remarks highlighting the rich cultural and historical linkages between India and Vietnam and the importance of these linkages in promoting contemporary ties between the two countries. He also described the development partnership between India and Vietnam in conservation of cultural heritage like the My Son Cham temples in Quang Nam as an important emerging area of cultural cooperation between the two countries. The event included presentation by two cultural experts from India and Vietnam. Mr. Lê Xuân Lợi, Director of Center for Cham's Cultural Research, Ninh Thuan province of Vietnam gave a presentation on the “Imprint of Indian civilization through the Kate festival of Cham people at Po Laong Girai Tower”. From India, Dr. Birendra Nath Prasad, Assistant Professor, Centre for Historical Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, India, delivered a presentation on “Hindu Temples of Champa and their Socio-Political Linkages: Some Parallels with Early Mediaeval Eastern India”.

India@75: Celebration of National Teachers' Day of India (5 Sept 2021)

To celebrate the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) in Hanoi organized an online interaction with students of SVCC and children from the Indian community in Vietnam to mark the National Teachers' Day of India on September 5. The students spoke about the importance of teachers in their lives and paid tributes to them.

India@75: Webinar on India-Vietnam Agricultural Trade (13 Sept 2021)

As part of efforts to promote agricultural cooperation and trade between India and Vietnam, the Embassy hosted an interactive webinar with the regulatory authorities of the two countries on 13 September 2021 to exchange views on the entire spectrum of regulatory and market access issues and promote better mutual understanding of each other's safety and quality standards in agriculture trade. Agriculture and allied commodities are an important component of India-Vietnam bilateral trade, accounting for nearly 20% of the trade basket in 2020-21. Agriculture trade brings direct benefits to farming communities of the two countries and therefore, an important priority in Embassy's trade promotion activities. Agricultural cooperation has also been one of the mainstays of traditional bilateral cooperation between India and Vietnam as symbolized by iconic Indian development projects in Vietnam such as the Cuu Long Delta Rice Research Institute and Southern Fruit Research Institute (SOFRI) in Tien Giang.

India@75: Hindi Diwas Celebration - 2021 (14 Sept 2021)

हिंदी दिवस (14 सितम्बर) के अवसर पर भारतीय दूतावास और स्वामी विवेकानंद सांस्कृतिक केंद्र द्वारा आयोजित कार्यक्रमों में वियतनाम में हिंदी के छात्रों और भारतीय समुदाय के सदस्यों ने हिस्सा लिया और भारत के विदेश मंत्री और विदेश राज्य मंत्री का संदेश भी सुना। भारत और वियतनाम के हिंदी साहित्यकारों के साथ “भाषा के माध्यम से संस्कृति” विषय पर एक वेबिनार का भी आयोजन किया गया। प्रस्तुत है इन कार्यक्रमों की एक झलक…

India@75: Celebration of ITEC Day 2021 (15 Sept 2021)

The Embassy of India, Hanoi hosted a virtual celebration to mark the ITEC Day on 15 September 2021 and commemorate the India-Vietnam partnership under the Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme. Ambassador Pranay Verma and Deputy Minister of Education and Training of Vietnam, His Excellency Nguyen Van Phuc delivered the keynote remarks. Over 70 ITEC alumni from various provinces of Vietnam participated in the online event. Several of them shared their experiences and fond memories while studying in India. ITEC remains India’s flagship development cooperation initiative for capacity building and human resource development based on the needs and priorities of the partner countries. As a country with whom India has a long history of development cooperation, Vietnam is one of our premier partners in the ITEC programme with nearly 3000 ITEC alumni.

India@75: Ambassador's Interview with VITV on Fifth Anniversary of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (15 Sept 2021)

VITV spoke with Ambassador Pranay Verma on the achievements of the past five years since India-Vietnam bilateral relations were elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Vietnam in September 2016. Read the transcript at: https://www.indembassyhanoi.gov.in/speeches_detail/?id=108

India@75: Webinar on COVID-19 -- Experiences from India (25 Sept 2021)

Excellent discussions and exchange of experiences between eminent doctors of India and Vietnam on the management of COVID-19. Ambassador Pranay Verma underlined the value of close consultations and cooperation between India and Vietnam in their common fight against COVID-19 and welcomed an eminent panel of experts from the two sides led by Prof. Randeep Guleria, Director of AIIMS, New Delhi and Dr. Nguyen Quoc Thai, Infectious Disease Specialist from Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi at a webinar hosted by the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City and INCHAM Vietnam on 25 September 2021 as part of our series of events to mark the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav".

India@75: Webinar on Buddhist Philosophy (28 Sept 2021)

s part of the series of events to mark the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav", Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), Hanoi organized a webinar on Buddhist Philosophy on 28 September 2021. Ambassador Pranay Verma, in his opening remarks, highlighted the Buddhist linkages between India and Vietnam as an important foundation of their contemporary bilateral relations and underlined the relevance of Lord Buddha’s messages and Buddhist philosophy in the midst of global uncertainties and stresses of modern lifestyle. Most Venerable Dr. Thich Nhat Tu, Standing Vice Rector of Vietnam Buddhist University in Ho Chi Minh City, who is an alumnus of India’s Delhi and Allahabad Universities and holds a doctoral degree in Buddhist studies from Allahabad University, and Dr. Arvind Kumar Singh, Assistant Professor of School of Buddhist Studies & Civilization at Gautam Buddha University in New Delhi made presentations on Buddhist philosophy and cultural links between India and Vietnam. The event was part of regular events hosted by the Embassy and SVCC to explore the shared Buddhist heritage of India and Vietnam.

India@75: Webinar on “Gandhian Philosophy and Resolve for Sustainable Future” and Book Release of Vietnamese Translation of Mahatma Gandhi's "Hind Swaraj" (2 Oct 2021)

To mark Mahatma Gandhi’s 152nd Birth Anniversary, the Embassy and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre hosted a webinar on “Gandhian Philosophy and Resolve for Sustainable Future” on October 2nd 2021. Two eminent experts — the internationally acclaimed speaker on Gandhian philosophy from India, Dr. Shobhana Radhakrishna, and Dr. Phan Anh Tu from University of Social Sciences and Humanity, HCM City — were invited as Guest Speakers. Ambassador of South Africa to Vietnam, H.E. M.K. Lekgoro was the Special Guest, who in his remarks, gave a fascinating account of Mahatma Gandhi’s deep influence on South African society and the country’s anti-colonial and anti-apartheid struggles. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma spoke of the ever growing relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy in addressing the myriad challenges the world is facing today and in securing its sustainable future. During the webinar, Ambassador Pranay Verma also released the Vietnamese translation of Mahatma Gandhi’s book “Hind Swaraj” by Dr. Le Thi Hang Nga of Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences.

India@75: Embassy's Tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti 2021 (2 Oct 2021)

Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd Birth Anniversary was commemorated on October 2nd 2021 with a floral tribute to Bapu's statue inside the Embassy premises by Ambassador Pranay Verma.

India@75: Tree Planting Ceremony in Yen Bai Province to Celebrate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (02.10.2021)

As part of the commemorative events to mark the #GandhiJayanti, the ongoing 75th anniversary year of India’s Independence and the upcoming 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam, Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Yen Bai province for a Tree Planting Ceremony on 2nd October 2021. A total of 125 Giang Huong trees (Pterocarpus Macrocarpus Kurs) were planted. Ambassador described the tree plantation as a symbol of India-Vietnam friendship for generations to witness and a mark of collaboration between the two countries for protection of environment that will also contribute to Government of Vietnam’s “Green Vietnam Initiative” of planting one billion trees by 2025.

India@75: Singing of MOU for Quick Impact Project in Yen Bai Province for Irrigation Canal (02.10.2021)

During Ambassador’s visit to Yen Bai on Oct. 2, the Embassy signed with the Provincial People’s Commitee an MOU for Indian grant assistance for construction of an irrigation canal in Van Chan district under Government of India’s Quick Impact Project (QIP) programme. The infield canal will irrigate 20 hectares of farmland and directly benefit over 1500 families. Our grassroots QIPs support Vietnam’s Sustainable Development Goals.

India@75: Webinar on India-Vietnam Buddhist Linkages (11.10.2021)

As part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations and in the series of events on India-Vietnam Buddhist Linkages, the Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi organized a webinar on “India’s Buddhist Influence on Vietnam” on 11 October 2021. Ambassador Pranay Verma, in his opening remarks, highlighted India's Buddhist connections with Vietnam dating back more than 2000 years ago and their continued relevance in strengthening contemporary ties between the two countries. Most Venerable Thich Duc Thien, Vice President and General Secretary of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and Padma Shree Awardee, and Dr. Karam Tej Singh Sarao, an eminent scholar in Buddhist studies from Delhi University presented scholarly perspectives on the depth and characteristics of the ancient civilizational linkages between India and Vietnam centered on Buddhism and its preeminent role as a bridge between the Indian and Vietnamese cultures.

India@75: Signing of MOU for Quick Impact Project in Lao Cai Province for School Building (22.10.2021)

During Ambassador’s visit to Lao Cai Province on 22-23 October 2021 and to mark #AmritMahotsav, the Embassy of India signed with the Provincial People’s Commitee of Lao Cai an MOU for Indian grant assistance under Government of India’s Quick Impact Project (QIP) programme for construction of a kindergarten classroom building in Trung Chai Commune of Sa Pa Town. The new classrooms will facilitate learning for over 100 children of Trung Chai commune. Our QIPs contribute to Vietnam’s Sustainable Development Goals.

India@75: Vande Bharat Quiz 3.0 (25.10.2021)

As part of series of events to celebrate the #AmritMahotsav, the Embassy hosted the third edition of online “Vande Bharat Quiz” on 25 October 2021 on the theme “Contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel in the Making of Modern India”. The quiz was timed with the birth anniversary celebrations of two of India’s tallest leaders – the 152nd birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on 2nd October and the 146th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 31st October, which is also marked as the National Unity Day. Twenty students from the Indian community in Vietnam participated. Ambassador Pranay Verma interacted with them before the event and encouraged them to learn from the lives of these great leaders and connect with their roots in India through the quiz programme.

India@75: Online Signing of MOUs for QIPs with Eight Provinces of Vietnam (27.10.2021)

At an online ceremony held on 27 October 2021, the Embassy signed Memorandum of Understanding with the People’s Committee of eight Provinces of Vietnam – Ha Tinh, Hai Phong, Khanh Hoa, Nghe An, Quang Binh, Quang Ngai, Quang Tri and Tuyen Quang – for implementing eight Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) covering education, irrigation and water supply, and social welfare sectors. Earlier this month, Memorandum of Understanding for two QIPs – one each in Yen Bai and Lao Cai provinces – were also signed. Addressing the online event, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the tangible and rapid benefits QIPs brought to the local community and their contributions to Vietnam’s Sustainable Development Goals. On behalf of People’s Committees of eight provinces present at the signing ceremony, the Vice Chairman of People’s Committee of Quang Binh, Mr. Ho An Phong appreciated the benefits of these small projects in remote and difficult areas of Vietnam and their supportive role in the socio-economic development efforts of the local Governments.

India@75: Webinar on India's Freedom Struggle (27.10.2021)

As part of series of events to celebrate the #AmritMahotsav, Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre organized a webinar on “The influence of India’s freedom struggle on anti-colonial movements in Asia and Africa” on 27 October 2021. The webinar witnessed presentations by Prof. Keshav Mishra, Head of Department of History, Banaras Hindu University of India and Mr. Vu The Cuong from Center for Indian Studies at Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics in Vietnam. Ambassador Pranay Verma, in his opening remarks, described the webinar as a celebration of two important anniversaries being marked this month – the 152nd birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on 2nd October and the 146th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 31st October, which is also celebrated as the National Unity Day.

India@75: Webinar on Sardar Patel's Vision and Contributions (30.10.2021)

As part of celebrations to mark the #RashtriyaEktaDiwas, Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi orgsnised a webinar on "Sardar Patel's Vision and Contributions to India's National Unity and Modern Indian Nation" on 30 October 2021. Dr. Mach Le Thu from Centre of Indian Studies at the Ho Chi Min National Academy of Politics and Dr. Bhuwan Kumar Jha, Assistant Professor and Former Fellow at Nehru Memorial Museum and Library made presentations on Sardar Patel’s life and vision. Ambassador Pranay Verma made opening remarks highlighting Sardar Patel’s contributions to post-Independent India’s unification and governance. He invited the people of Vietnam to visit the #StatueOfUnity in Gujarat, the world’s tallest statue built to honour Sardar Patel’s monumental legacy.

India@75: National Unity Pledge (31.10.2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma administered the National Unity Pledge to the Embassy officials to mark the #RashtriyaEktaDiwas — the 146th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

India@75: National Unity Week Celebrations (31.10.2021)

A week-long commemoration of the #RashtriyaEktaDiwas — the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 31 October 2021 — culminated with Ambassador administering the National Unity Pledge to all officials of the Embassy. The week-long celebrations comprised special events organized by the Embassy to celebrate the life and vision of Sardar Patel. These included a special webinar on the “Vision and Contributions of Sardar Patel for India’s National Unity and Nation-building” held on 30 October with the participation of scholars from India and Vietnam. Earlier, the Embassy hosted a special #VandeBharatQuiz on 25 October that focused on the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel in India’s freedom struggle; and a webinar on 27 October on the “influence of India’s freedom struggle on anti-colonial movements in Asia and Africa”. The commemoration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas this year added a special dimension to our celebration of “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”, the 75 years of India’s independence and the glorious history of her people, culture and achievements.

India@75: 10th Anniversary of Gurudev Tagore's Bust at Vietnam Museum of Literature (01.11.2021)

As part of celebrations to mark the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, Ambassador Pranay Verma visited the Vietnam Museum of Literature on 1st November 2021 to pay floral tributes to the bust of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore at the Museum. This month marks the 10th anniversary of the installation of Gurudev’s bust as well as the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Vietnam Museum of Literature. The bust of Gurudev Tagore was the first statue of a foreign literary figure to be installed at the Vietnam Museum of Literature, highlighting the special admiration and respect towards the poet laureate in Vietnam. On this occasion, Ambassador also gave an interview to Vietnam’s VTV on Gurudev Tagore’s life and vision. This will be part of a special programme being produced by VTV to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Museum. Gurudev Tagore’s visit to Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) in June 1929 was an important landmark in India-Vietnam exchanges in the 20th century, demonstrating mutual solidarity during our freedom struggle. Many of Gurudev Tagore’s poems have since been translated into Vietnamese. https://vanvn.vn/dai-su-an-do-tham-bao-tang-van-hoc-viet-nam-va-dat-hoa-tuong-niem-nha-tho-tagore/

India@75: National Ayurveda Day Celebrations (02.11.2021)

As part of events commemorating the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, the Embassy and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre organized a special webinar to mark the #NationalAyurvedaDay on 2nd November 2021. From India, Ayurveda Physician Dr. Chandrashekhar introduced the basic concepts of Ayurveda as a holistic wellness system. From Vietnam, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Tam Thuan, Vice Director of International Collaboration Centre of the Vietnam National Hospital of Traditional Medicine gave a presentation drawing similarities between the traditional medicine systems of India and Vietnam. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the theme of this year’s Ayurveda Day - “Ayurveda for nutrition” and noted the growing international collaboration in Ayurveda and Ayurveda’s relevance in the emerging focus on holistic healthcare in the context of COVID-19. Ambassador also noted the emerging exchanges between India and Vietnam in the traditional medicine system.

India@75: Ambassador's Presentation at VIISAS (02.11.2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma was invited by the Vietnam Institute of Indian and Southwest Asian Studies (VIISAS) of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences (VASS) on 2 November 2021 to address its scholars on Five Years of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. VIISAS is one of the premier thinktanks of Vietnam focused on Indian studies and plays a key role in promotion of bilateral relations. In his presentation, Ambassador analyzed the key developments of last five years in India-Vietnam relations and laid out the possibilities for the future, as the two countries prepared to mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, as also in the context of the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence.

India@75: Webinar on "Buddhist Circuit" : Tourism in India (08.11.2021)

As part of events to promote tourism from Vietnam to India, the Embassy of India, in collaboration with the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), the Indian Ministry of Tourism and India Tourism Office in Singapore, hosted a webinar on “Buddhist Circuits in India” on 8 November 2021. The event witnessed participation of a large number of tourism and travel companies, media outlets and tourism experts from India and Vietnam. In his keynote address, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted recent steps taken by India to welcome foreign tourists, including opening of all tourism to India from 15 November and the launch of “SU-SWAGATAM” Indian visa app as a single window facilitation for foreign tourists. Ambassador noted the salience of Buddhist heritage in India for Vietnamese tourists. He also underlined the new facilities to promote international travel to these destinations, notably the inauguration of the Kushinagar International Airport by Prime Minister of India in October 2021. The event was also addressed by the Vice Chairman of VNAT, Mr. Ha Van Sieu, who welcomed the Embassy’s initiative and urged travel operators to disseminate more information on Buddhist circuit packages suitable for Vietnamese tourists. Presentations were made by senior officials of India’s Ministry of Tourism, India Tourism Office in Singapore, Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, International Buddhist Confederation as well as representatives from the travel industry. The webinar concluded with an interactive Q&A session. Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi presented the Vote of Thanks to the participants.

India-Vietnam Literary and Art Exchanges (12 November 2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited the Central Council for Theory and Criticism for Literature and Art of Vietnam on 12 November 2021 and held talks with the Council’s Chairman H.E. Mr. Nguyen The Ky. They discussed several proposals to promote literary and art exchanges between India and Vietnam to mark the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence and 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations in 2022.

Launch of Quiz Contest on Buddhism (15 November 2021)

As part of celebrations for "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav", a quiz contest on Buddhism was launched by the Embassy of India in partnership with the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) to promote awareness and understanding among the people of Vietnam, particularly the younger generation, of the various Buddhist destinations in India and to encourage them to visit these historical locations. Ambassador Pranay Verma and Vice Chairman of VBS Standing Committee, Thich Thanh Nhieu jointly chaired the launch ceremony at the VBS premises on 15 November 2021 in the presence of Vietnamese media persons. The quiz will be open to all Vietnamese citizens and will be conducted in three rounds. The three final winners will get to visit India on a five-day familiarization trip sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

Webinar on “Regional Poets and India’s freedom struggle” (16 Nov 2021)

Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi organized a Webinar on “Regional Poets and India’s freedom struggle” on 16th November 2021. This programme is part of a series of events commemorating the historic milestone, the 75th Anniversary of India’s independence as Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. In his opening remarks, Shri. Subhash Prasad Gupta, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India to Vietnam, highlighted how writers and poets discovered their unity in the process of their struggle with colonialism. Many poets instilled patriotism and amplified the freedom struggle through their words. The Webinar continued with the presentation on “Aspiration for freedom in Hồ Chí Minh’s Prison Diary” by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Mai Lien, Head of Foreign Literature Studies Department, Hanoi National University of Education, Vietnam. It was then entailed by a presentation of Dr. Om Prakash, Head Department of Indian Languages and Literature, Gautam Buddha University, India, where he explained the Indian oral tradition in the literary works during the freedom struggle.

Quiz Programme on "Dekho Apna Desh" (21 Nov 2021)

Embassy of India organised the quiz programme “Dekho Apna Desh” and hosted children from the Indian community in Hanoi along with their parents on 21 November 2021 as part of events to celebrate #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav. Ambassador interacted with the children and encouraged them to learn more about India and its rich heritage and achievements. To mark the upcoming Constitution Day, Ambassador also read out the Preamble of the Constitution together with the children and their parents. Ambassador distributed prizes to the winners of the three rounds of #VandeBharatQuiz organised by the Embassy since July this year. Special prizes were also given to the winners of “Dekho Apna Desh” quiz. The young participants expressed their views on the usefulness of such quiz for enhancing awareness about their home country. They also viewed a photo exhibition on "Making of the Constitution of India" organised in the Embassy premises.

India-Vietnam B2B Meet on Textile Sector (23 Nov 2021)

As part of our ongoing trade promotion activities, the Embassy of India and the Consulate General of India, in collaboration with Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL), Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) and Vietnam Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIE), organized an India-Vietnam Virtual Buyer Seller Meet (VBSM) on Trade and Investment in Textile Sector on 23 November 2021. The event was attended by more than 60 companies from India and Vietnam. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the importance of textile sector in the India-Vietnam bilateral trade and underscored the need for forming new partnerships, exploring new supply chains and addressing logistical and market access issues in order to scale up textile trade between the two countries. The event included B2B interactions where 22 Indian textile exporters showcased their profiles to more than 40 Vietnamese companies. The VBSM concluded with an interactive Q&A session between the participating companies.

Reading of Preamble to Mark the Constitution Day of India ( 26 Nov 2021)

The Constitution Day of India was celebrated by the Embassy on 26 November 2021 with all officials of the Embassy joining online the Reading of the Preamble by Hon’ble President of India from the Central Hall of the Parliament.

Webinar on "Making of the Indian Constitution" (26 Nov 2021)

To mark the Constitution Day of India, Embassy hosted a Webinar on the ‘Making of the Constitution of India’ on 26 November 2021 featuring presentations by two expert speakers – Dr. Le Thi Hang Nga of Vietnam Institute of Indian and Southwest Asian Studies (VIISAS) and Prof. Manish, Chairperson and Dean, Centre for International Politics, Central University of Gujarat – who gave insights into the drafting of the Indian Constitution and its many features. Over 40 scholars and participants from both countries joined the webinar. Ambassador delivered the opening remarks.

Special Edition of Vande Bharat Quiz to Mark the Constitution Day of India (26 Nov 2021)

Embassy of India organized a special edition of the Vande Bharat Quiz, with the participation of Indian diaspora children in Vietnam, on the theme of India’s Constitution to mark the Constitution Day of India on 26 November 2021. Earlier on 21 November, these children, along with their parents, were invited to the Embassy to join the reading of Preamble of the Constitution by Ambassador and view a photo exhibition on India’s Constitution.

Webinar on "India-Vietnam Buddhist Linkages: A New Perspective At The Time Of Pandemic” (29 Nov 2021)

As part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre organized a webinar on "India-Vietnam Buddhist Linkages: A New Perspective At The Time Of Pandemic” on 29 November 2021. The webinar witnessed presentations by eminent Buddhist scholars from India and Vietnam - Dr. Karam Tej Singh Sarao from Delhi University; Venerable Bhikkhu Ananda, General Secretary of Mahabodhi Society, Bengaluru and Nun Dr. Thích Như Nguyệt, Director of the Buddhist Women's Research Center of the Vietnam Institute of Buddhist Studies, Vietnam Buddhist University, Ho Chi Minh City.

Ambassador's Address at Party's External Relations Commission ( 3 Dec 2021)

Ambassador Pranay Verma was invited by the External Relations Commission of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam on 3 December 2021 to deliver an address on India’s Foreign Policy. Vice Chairman of the Commission, His Excellency Truong Quang Hoai Nam gave opening remarks at the interaction. The engagement was part of Embassy’s multifaceted outreach to mark the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav.

Embassy Marks the Mahaparinirvan Diwas (6 Dec 2021)

To pay tributes to Bharat Ratna and architect of India’s Constitution, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar on his death anniversary – marked as the Mahaparinirvan Diwas - on 6 December 2021, the Embassy and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi hosted a special webinar on “Nation Building”, along with a digital Photo-Exhibition on Dr. Ambedkar’s life. As an expert speaker from India, Prof. Manish, Chairperson & Dean, Centre for International Politics, Central University of Gujarat, was invited to make a keynote presentation at the webinar. Ambassador gave the opening remarks at the event. Over 30 participants joined the online event.

Webinar to Promote Cooperation between Manipur and Quang Tri (3 Dec 2021)

As part of events to mark AKAM and promote linkages between India’s Northeastern States with Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy, the Embassy organised a webinar on 3 December 2021 to explore cooperation opportunities between India’s Manipur State and Vietnam’s Quang Tri Province. Both these provinces are at important locations to foster regional connectivity and offer complementary opportunities for cooperation in areas such as agriculture, forestry, agro-processing, fishing, aquaculture, and tourism and culture. In his remarks during the event, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the key role of Manipur and other Northeastern States in realizing India’s Act East Policy and underlined the salience of provincial-level cooperation in promoting India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Vice chairman of People’s Committee of Quang Tri Province, Mr. Hoang Nam led the discussions with officials from the State Government of Manipur to explore possible areas of trade, investment and economic cooperation.

VBSM for exploring opportunities in Agricultural sector (17 Dec 2021)

As a part of its initiatives to explore business opportunities in agriculture and food processing sector, the Embassy of India in Hanoi and the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh city, in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) organized a Virtual Buyer Seller Meet for exploring opportunities in agricultural sector. The event saw participation of more than 30 agriculture and food processing companies from India and Vietnam. In his keynote address, Shri Subhash P. Gupta, Charge d’Affairs of the Embassy of India underscored the importance of agriculture sector in bilateral economic cooperation between India Vietnam. Highlighting the support and encouragement from both countries in sustainable agriculture, bio-technology, post-harvest technology and green agriculture, he emphasized on widening of business opportunities for agricultural companies of both countries and encouraged them to explore all possible opportunities though B2B engagements.

To mark the First War of Independence (17 Dec 2021)

As part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrating the 75th Independence Day of India, Embassy of India, Hanoi and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre organized an event on 17 December 2021 to mark the First War of Independence. In his opening remarks, Shri Subhash Prasad Gupta, Charge d'Affaires, Embassy of India, Hanoi gave an overview on the struggle for the freedom that started in different parts of India in 1857. It was followed with screening of a documentary “The Beginning 1857" with Vietnamese subtitles. The documentary helped the audience understand more about 1857 struggle. Ms. Phan Lan Tú, Chairwoman of the Vietnam - India Friendship Association of Hanoi spoke about the struggle for freedom of Vietnam. A digital photo exhibition on the freedom fighters of this period was also presented. The event was attended by distinguished guests from Vietnam-India Friendship Association, Vietnam -India Friendship Association of Hanoi City, Centre for Indian Studies (Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics), Vietnam Institute of Indian and Southwest Asian Studies (Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences), University of Social Sciences and Humanities, SVCC Vietnamese students and officials of the Embassy.

A virtual B2B Meet on Electronic Sector - India-Vietnam ( 21 Dec 2021)

As a part of its initiatives for exploring opportunities in electronic sector, the Embassy of India in Hanoi in collaboration with the Electronics & Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) of India, Vietnam Electronics Industries Association (VEIA) and Vietnam’s Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises organized a Virtual Buyer Seller Meet on on 21 December 2021. The event saw participation of more than 50 representatives from companies in electronic sector from India and Vietnam. In his keynote address, Shri Subhash P. Gupta, Charge d’Affairs highlighted high growth sustained by both countries in electronics sector contributing significantly in the GDP of both countries. Considering the convergence of strengths of both countries in this sector, he suggested for identifying products suitable for each country as well as finalization of MRAs for forging new supply chains and connecting with the global supply.

Embassy's Annual Media Get Together and Briefing on AKAM Events (5 Jan 2022)

The Embassy hosted its annual lunch for friends from the Vietnamese media on 5 January 2022. Ambassador Pranay Verma briefed them on developments in India-Vietnam relations in 2021 and various activities being planned by the Embassy in 2022 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of India’s independence #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav and the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations. During the week, Ambassador also gave special interviews on these themes to three prominent news channels of Vietnam – VTV, VTC and the Vietnam Military Broadcasting TV (QPVN).

Photo-exhibition on “Delhi-Hanoi : Bridges of Friendship” (5 Jan 2022)

Embassy's celebrations for the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav began in the New Year with the launch of a photo-exhibition titled “Delhi-Hanoi : Bridges of Friendship”, organized in partnership with the Vietnam-India Friendship Association of Hanoi (HAVIFA). The event also marked another important milestone - the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam. The exhibition captured vibrant images of the two capital cities taken by photographers from India and Vietnam.

50th Anniversary Celebrations of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations (6 Jan 2022)

The 50th anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations between India and Vietnam was celebrated in Hanoi on 6 January 2022 by the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO) and the Vietnam-India Friendship Association (VIFA) in partnership with the Embassy of India. The event was graced by the Vice President of Vietnam, Her Excellency Vo Thi Anh Xuan. Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu sent a video message on the occasion. Vietnam’s Minister of Information and Communications and Chairman of VIFA, His Excellency Nguyen Manh Hung and Ambassador Pranay Verma also addressed the gathering. The celebrations included a bouquet of cultural performances by Indian and Vietnamese artistes showcasing the long-standing friendship between the two countries. India and Vietnam established formal Diplomatic Relations on 7 January 1972, even though friendly relations and close ties between the two countries long preceded that milestone. This important landmark in the year 2022 coincides with #AzaadiKaAmritMahotsav, the 75th anniversary of India’s independence, which adds to the significance of the occasion.

Exchange of Messages between Leaders of India and Vietnam to Mark 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations (7 Jan 2022)

To mark the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations on 7 January 2022, Vice Foreign Minister of Vietnam His Excellency Nguyen Quoc Dzung and Ambassador Pranay Verma exchanged congratulatory messages sent by the leaders of India and Vietnam, in a simple ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Digital Photo Exhibition by Vietnam News Agency to Mark 50th Anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations (7 Jan 2022)

Vietnam News Agency (VNA) launched a digital photo exhibition entitled “Vietnam-India: 50 Years of Cooperation” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries on 7 January 2022. The launch ceremony was attended by Ambassador Pranay Verma, General Director of VNA Her Excellency Vu Viet Trang, President of Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations Her Excellency Nguyen Phuong Nga and other dignitaries from Vietnam. Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador thanked VNA for sharing some rare pictures from their archives that provided a glimpse of precious historical moments in India-Vietnam contemporary relations capturing the depth of our bilateral ties and close friendship. He noted that the significance of the occasion is further enhanced as India marks the 75th anniversary of her independence as #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav. The digital exhibition is available for viewing at VNA’s website: https://link.gov.vn/PICVNAD (in English) and https://link.gov.vn/TLAVNAD (in Vietnamese).

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2022 (9 Jan 2022)

The Embassy of India celebrated the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas with the participation of the Indian community members in Vietnam. In his remarks, Ambassador appreciated the role of the Indian diaspora in promoting India-Vietnam relations and thanked the Indian community members for their active participation in celebrations for #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav. He also briefed them on various activities being organized by the Embassy this year to celebrate the Amrit Mahotsav and the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations. A presentation was made on various initiative recently launched by the Government of India to facilitate closer engagement with the Indian diaspora and their welfare. Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (INCHAM) in Hanoi, Shri Harish Taparia also delivered his remarks. The event included an interactive session with the community members. After the event, participants were invited to join the online screening of the Youth PBD Conference on Innovation and New Technologies hosted by the Ministry of External Affairs the same day.

Vishwa Hindi Divas 2022 (10 Jan 2022)

10 जनवरी 2022 को विश्व हिंदी दिवस के उपलक्ष्य में भारतीय राजदूतावास और स्वामी विवेकानंद सांस्कृतिक केंद्र, हानोई ने सामूहिक रूप से एक ऑनलाइन समारोह का आयोजन किया | राजदूत श्री प्रणय वर्मा ने इस आयोजन को “अमृत महोत्सव” के कार्यक्रमों का एक महत्वपूर्ण अंग बताया तथा हिंदी की वैश्विक प्रासंगिकता का उल्लेख किया | साथ ही उन्होंने विश्व हिंदी दिवस के अवसर पर भारत के माननीय प्रधानमंत्री द्वारा भेजा गया संदेश पढ़ा | माननीय विदेश मंत्री और विदेश राज्य मंत्री के द्वारा सम्प्रेषित संदेशों से भी सभी को अवगत कराया गया | इस कार्यक्रम में करीब तीन दर्जन कविताओं का पाठ किया गया जिसमें कुछ स्वरचित भी थीं | नन्हें वच्चों ने भी कार्यक्रम में हिस्सा लिया | कुछ कविताओं को हमारे वियतनामी मित्रों द्वारा सुनाया गया | कथ्य, रस और भाव की विविधता से भरी इन रचनाओं को भारतवंशियों और वियतनामी हिंदी प्रेमियों ने भरपूर सराहा | कार्यक्रम का समापन उप मिशन प्रमुख श्री सुभाष गुप्ता के कविता पाठ और धन्यवाद ज्ञापन से हुआ |

National Youth Day 2022 (12 Jan 2022)

The Embassy and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi paid homage to #SwamiVivekananda on his birth anniversary and marked the #NationalYouthDay. Members of Vietnamese academia and thinktanks as well as the Indian diaspora participated. In his opening remarks, Ambassador underlined the significance of the occasion as part of celebrations for the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav and described Swami Vivekananda’s life and vision as a driving force behind modern India’s aspirations and achievements. He also urged the participants to join the online celebrations for the National Youth Day being held in India that day. Vietnamese Indologist Dr. Le Thi Hang Nga, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Vietnam Journal for Indian and Asian Studies of Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences gave a scholarly presentation on Swami Vivekananda’s spiritual journey and his influence on the global stage. On this occasion, a photo exhibition was also organised and short films were screened on the life and message of Swami Vivekananda.

Festivals of India (14 Jan 2022)

Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Embassy of India and Indian Community in Hanoi celebrated multiple Festivals of India on 14 January 2022, including Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Uttarayan, Bihu and Pongal with colorful activities. They made colorful Rangolies and children of the community made and flew kites. One Rangoli also depicted Veer Kunwar Singh, one of the unsung heroes of India. These celebrations are also part of the events to commemorate 75 years of India’s independence known as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Walkathon with HAVIFA (16 Jan 2022)

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and as part of activities to mark the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav and the #73rdRepublicDay, the Embassy of India, in partnership with the Vietnam-India Friendship Association of Hanoi (HAVIFA), held a walkathon in Ninh Binh province’s Bai Dinh Pagoda Area.

Ambassador's Address to CGS, Delhi University (18 Jan 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma was invited by the Centre For Global Studies, University of Delhi on 18 January 2022 to give an online address to their faculty and students on “India-Vietnam Relations in Changing Times: From Traditional Friendship to Strategic Partnership” as part of the Centre’s Ambassadorial Lecture Series. Ambassador thanked the Centre for the invitation and hoped that the interaction would promote greater understanding of India-Vietnam relations among young scholars at a time when both countries are celebrating the 50th Anniversary of their Diplomatic Relations.

Hybrid Seminar on Investment Opportunities in India (18 Jan 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma addressed a Hybrid Dialogue on Investment and Partnership Opportunities in India for Vietnamese Companies and Investors on 18 January 2022 . The event was co-organized by the Consulate General of India in HCM City and Investment Promotion Centre of South Vietnam. In his remarks, Ambassador welcomed Vietnamese investors to take advantage of the options, opportunities and openness that India’s rapidly growing economy offered to foreign investors. Additional Secretary of India’s Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DIPP), Ms Sumita Dawra gave special remarks at the event introducing the range of reforms taken by Government of India to enhance Ease of Doing Business for foreign investors in India.

Webinar on India-Vietnam Cooperation in Innovation (21 Jan 2022)

Embassy of India hosted a webinar on exploring India-Vietnam cooperation in #Innovation on 21 January 2022. Ambassador Pranay Verma in his keynote remarks identified innovation as a key driver for the national development strategies of both India and Vietnam aided by their young and aspiring demography and underlined the emerging opportunities for bilateral cooperation in innovation, particularly among their startup sectors. The webinar was addressed by officials and experts from many stakeholder organizations such as India’s NITI Aayog and Invest India and Vietnam’s Ministry of S&T, Vietnam Association for Foreign Invested Enterprises and the Central Institute for Economic Management. Consul General of India Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi also addressed the event.

Vande Bharat Quiz on Netaji to Mark Parakram Diwas (23 Jan 2022)

To celebrate #Netaji125 as Parakram Diwas and also as part of #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, Embassy of India organized online the 5th edition of the Vande Mataram Quiz on the life and vision of Netaji #SubhasChandraBose. Students from the Indian diaspora as well as Vietnamese students from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (USSH), Hanoi participated. In his opening remarks, Deputy Chief of Mission Shri Subhash Prasad Gupta briefed the participants about Netaji’s contributions in India’s freedom movement. Head of Department of Indian Studies, USSH, Dr Do Thu Ha recalled her visit to Netaji’s birthplace and museum in India. Diaspora children also wrote and submitted brief essays on Netaji.

Embassy's Blood Donation Campaign (23 Jan 2022)

To celebrate the 73rd republic Day of India and the 125th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and as part of events to mark #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, Embassy of India and the Indian Business Chamber jointly organized a blood donation camp at the Vietnam National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion in Hanoi on 23 January 2022.

Embassy's Tribute to Netaji on Parakram Diwas (24 Jan 2022)

The Embassy family paid tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his 125th Birth Anniversary observed as the "Parakram Diwas".

Webinar to Mark National Tourism Day of India 2022 (25 Jan 2022)

Embassy of India celebrated the #NationalTourismDay of India on 25 January 2022 by hosting a webinar on India-Vietnam Tourism Promotion in partnership with the Vietnam National Tourism Administration (VNAT) and the India Tourism Office in Singapore. The online event was joined by several Vietnamese tour operators as well as alumni of Indian ICCR scholarships in Vietnam. In his keynote address, Ambassador Pranay Verma noted the importance of post-pandemic revival of tourism sector in both India and Vietnam and highlighted a number of recent steps to make tourism in India more convenient and enjoyable for foreign tourists. Ambassador also highlighted tourism attractions in India for Vietnamese visitors, including our shared Buddhist heritage. The India Tourism office in Singapore made a presentation on tourist destinations of India. Several ICCR alumni and officials of Tourism Association of Vietnam made useful suggestions to attract Vietnamese tourists to India, particularly the youth.

Exchanges with Bac Giang Province Leadership (25 Jan 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma welcomed the Standing Vice Chairman of Bac Giang Province H. E. Mr. Mai Son and his delegation at the India House on 25 January 2022 and exchanged Tet greetings. They discussed plans for cooperation between the Embassy and Bac Giang in the New Year, including in trade and investment, development partnership, human resource training and cultural exchanges. They also agreed to hold celebrations in Bac Giang province to mark the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and the 75th anniversary of India's Independence in 2022.

Interaction with New Board of Governors of INCHAM Hanoi (25 Jan 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma met with the newly elected Members of the Board of Governors of INCHAM-Hanoi on 25 January 2022 and exchanged ideas for expanding India-Vietnam engagement in diverse areas with the participation of the Indian businesses and the diaspora in Vietnam. They also discussed INCHAM's closer participation in various activities planned in 2022 to mark the 50th Anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations as well as the 75th anniversary of India's Independence.

Tricolour Lighting of Iconic Nhat Tan Bridge in Hanoi (25 Jan 2022)

The iconic Nhat Tan Bridge in Hanoi was lit in tricolour for several days in January 2022 to mark the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav as well as the 73rd Republic Day of India and the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations.

Celebration of 73rd Republic Day at the Embassy (26 Jan 2022)

The Embassy of India marked the 73rd Republic Day with floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and the flag unfurling ceremony. Ambassador read out the address of Hon'ble Presidnet of India. A cultural programme was presented by members and families of the Embassy. Due to COVID-19 restrictions in Hanoi, the event was livestreamed on Embassy's social media platform for the Indian community in Vietnam to join online.

73rd Republic Day Celebrations in Various Provinces of Vietnam (26 Jan 2022)

The Indian enterprises with investments in Vietnam celebrated the 73rd Republic Day on 26 January 2022 at Yen Bai, Hai Phong and Quang Ninh provinces.

Martyrs' Day 2022 ( 30 Jan 2022)

On Martyrs Day on 30 January 2022, the Embassy family paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi and millions of freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifices for India’s Independence.

Joint Cultural Event by Embassies of India and Vietnam (8 Feb 2022)

The Embassy of India in Hanoi partnered with the Embassy of Vietnam in New Delhi to jointly host a cultural event at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Hanoi on 8 February 2022 to mark the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. The Ambassadors of India and Vietnam were joined by the Vice Foreign Minister of Vietnam, H.E. Mr. Nguyen Quoc Dzung; Chairperson of Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO), H.E. Madam Nguyen Phuong Nga; Chairman of Hai Duong Provincial People’s Committee, H.E. Trieu The Hung; Secretary General of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Most Venerable Thic Duc Thien; along with many friends of India in Vietnam and the members of the Indian diaspora.

Joint Tributes by Ambassadors to India-Vietnam Friendship (8 Feb 2022)

To reaffirm the long-standing friendship between India and Vietnam and to mark the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, Ambassador Pranay Verma and Vietnam’s Ambassador in India His Excellency Pham Sanh Chau jointly paid homage at the three iconic landmarks in Hanoi on 8 February 2022 – the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the Embassy premises, the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh, and the Bodhi Tree at Tran Quoc Pagoda, whose sapling was gifted to President Ho Chi Minh by the first President of India Dr. Rajendra Prasad during his visit to Hanoi in 1959.

Panel Discussion on India's Budget 2022-2023 ( 15 Feb 2022)

The Embassy and the Consulate General of India hosted an online panel discussion on “India’s Budget 2022-23” on 15 February 2022 with the participation of Government, industry and diaspora experts in Vietnam. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma underlined the growth-oriented and transformative nature of the Budget and its long-term vision geared towards the centenary of India’s Independence in 2047. He urged Vietnamese enterprises to seize the opportunities for investment and trade partnerships with India presented by the new initiatives and policies announced in the Budget. Consul General of India Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi moderated the panel discussion, which included speakers from the Indian Business Chamber (INCHAM), Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) of Vietnam, the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) of Vietnam and the Vietnam Association for Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIE). The speakers highlighted new opportunities for economic cooperation between India and Vietnam in different sectors.

Ambassador's Meeting with Chairman of HCM City to Expand Bilateral Cooperation (18 Feb 2022)

During his visit to Ho Chi Minh City, Ambassador Pranay Verma met the Chairman of the People’s Committee of HCM City H.E. Mr. Phan Van Mai on 18 February 2022 and reviewed the on-going cooperation between India and HCM City. They agreed to reinvigorate the bilateral exchanges in the post-COVID phase by enhancing trade, investment and tourism ties, and identified new collaborations in digital economy, education, healthcare and innovation. They agreed to jointly organize a number of events during 2022 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. They also highlighted the contributions of the large Indian community in HCM City in promoting bilateral cooperation, including during the difficult times of COVID-19 pandemic. Consul General of India in HCM City Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi joined Ambassador during the meeting.

Inauguration of Quick Impact Project in Tien Giang Province (18 Feb 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma joined the Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee of Tien Giang H.E. Mr. Nguyen Van Vinh on 18 February 2022 to inaugurate the Quick Impact Project (QIP) for installation of nearly 5 km long water pipeline system to provide clean water for residents in Dong Thanh Commune of Go Cong Tay District of the province. The project will bring clean water to more than 250 households. In his remarks at the event, Ambassador described the project as an example of people-oriented development partnership between the two countries. The project is part of two QIPs recently undertaken by the Govt. of India in Tien Giang province to address the serious water scarcity concerns that prevail in the Mekong Delta Region of Vietnam. The other QIP is for construction of rain water reservoirs to provide clean water for people in Tan Phu Dong District of the province. After the inaugural event, Ambassador and Chairman of Tien Giang People’s Committee held a working session to identify new areas of cooperation with Tien Giang province in the areas of trade, investment, tourism, human resource development, digital economy, education and cultural exchanges. Consul General of India Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi joined the discussions.

Trade Promotion Webinar for Spices (23 Feb 2022)

As part of our trade promotion efforts, the Embassy, in partnership with the Spices Board India and the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency, organized a spice trade promotion webinar and buyer-seller meet on 23 February 2022. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the resilience of bilateral trade between India and Vietnam, which is reported to have crossed US $13 billion in 2021 despite the disruptions of COVID-19 pandemic. He identified existing and new potentials in Vietnam for Indian spice exporters. Ambassador suggested that Vietnamese companies should take advantage of the online platform spicexchangeindia.com created by Spices Board, India for connecting with Indian stakeholders and partners. More than 100 companies engaged in spices trade from India and Vietnam participated in the webinar.

Ambassador's Remarks at the "Study in India" Diplomatic Conclave (24 Feb 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma participated online in the "Study in India” conclave held on 24 February 2022 in New Delhi on the theme of "Internationalization of Indian Higher Education" and highlighted the potential for promoting India as a destination for higher education among the Vietnamese students. The event was organised to mark the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav.

Webinar on "Indian Temple, Architecture and Cham Temples" (25 Feb 2022)

Embassy of India and Swami Vivekananda Culture Centre (SVCC) in Hanoi hosted a Webinar on “Indian Temple Architecture and Cham Temples” on 25th February 2022. The webinar was part of a series of events commemorating the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav as well as the 50th Anniversary of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted temple architecture as a manifestation of centuries-old cultural and civilizational links between India and Vietnam. Guest speaker Dr. Le Dinh Phung, Former Head of Historical Archaeology Research Department, Institute of Archaeology, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, gave a detailed presentation on cultural inspiration drawn from India in the architecture of Cham temples. During the event, a short film on "Restoration and Conservation of the Cham Temples in Vietnam by India" was also released.

Ambassador's Remarks at ASI's Conference on Indian Temple Architecture. (26 Feb 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma joined online the Conference on Temple Architecture – “DEVĀYATANAM – An Odyssey of Indian Temple Architecture” organized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on 25-26 February 2022 at the historical venue of Hampi in Karnataka, India as part of celebrations for the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav. Ambassador highlighted the important role being played by ASI in promoting public awareness of civilizational and cultural links between India and Vietnam through conservation projects of the Cham monuments at the World Heritage Site of My Son in central Vietnam.

Promoting Buddhist Tourism to India (28 Feb 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma saw off a group of Vietnamese tourists travelling to India’s Buddhist destinations by an IndiGo chartered flight on 28 February 2022. Buddhism has always been a great connector between our two countries. In the last few days, more than 200 tourists from Vietnam have travelled to India for Buddhist pilgrimage. As India opens for tourism, we welcome our friends from Vietnam to visit the #IncredibleIndia!

Conference on Buddhist Tourism Bodh Gaya - A Spiritual Journey (4 March 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma addressed a hybrid conference on 4 March 2022 organized by the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City for promotion of Buddhist destination tourism from Vietnam to India. Ambassador reiterated the importance of the shared Buddhist heritage as a strong bond between the two countries and highlighted the promotion of Buddhist tourism as a key focus of the Embassy and the Consulate General of India this year when India and Vietnam are celebrating the 50th anniversary of Diplomatic Relations and the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav. The conference titled “Bodh Gaya - A Spiritual Journey” saw participation of more than a hundred stakeholders including senior officials of India’s Ministry of Tourism, Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Tourism Bihar, Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee, Buddhist experts and scholars, and several travel and tour operators from India and Vietnam.

Webinar on “Role of Women in India’s Freedom Movement” (8 March 2022)

To mark the #InternationalWomensDay, the Embassy and the Swami Vivekananda Culture Centre in Hanoi organized a webinar on “Role of Women in India’s Freedom Movement” on 08 March 2022. The webinar was also part of the series of events commemorating the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav. Ambassador Pranay Verma gave the opening remarks. Dr. Ven. Bhikkhuni Viditadhamma Lieu Phap of the Vietnam Buddhist University in Ho Chi Minh City spoke as a special invitee. Two expert presentations were made by Prof. Dr. Neeru Misra, Former Director of Indian Council for Cultural Relations and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Thu Ha, Head of Department of Indian Studies at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi.

India-Vietnam Business Forum at HCM City (17 March 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma joined the Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee H.E. Mr. Vo Van Hoan at the India-Vietnam Business Forum in HCM City on 17 March 2022. The event was organized by the Consulate General of India in partnership with the Trade and Investment Promotion Centre of HCM City, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Invest India. In his remarks, Ambassador Verma highlighted the recent growth in bilateral economic ties between India and Vietnam, as reflected in their bilateral trade exceeding US$ 13 billion in 2021 despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He urged businesses of the two countries to explore new opportunities to further enhance economic ties at a time when both India and Vietnam were focused on pursuing rapid economic development. Ambassador also underlined the key reforms undertaken by the Government of India in recent years and the development blueprint announced in India’s latest #Budget2022 focussing on investament, infrastructure and innovation, in pursuit of the vision of #AatmanirbharBharat and enhanced Ease of Doing Business. The event was also addressed by Vice Chairman Hoan, Additional Secretary of India’s Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ms. Sumita Dawra and Ambassador of Vietnam to India, H.E. Mr. Phạm Sanh Chau. The seminar focused on some key economic sectors such as engineering, ancillary industry, textile, e-commerce, digital economy and retail, and included an exclusive B2B session.

Ambassador Meets President of Ho Chi Minh Academy ( 22 March 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma met with the Politburo Member of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President of Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics (HCMNAP), His Excellency Nguyen Xuan Thang on 22 March 2022 and discussed collaboration programmes with the Academy to mark the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. President Thang expressed interest in further reinforcing the Academy's exchanges with India in wide-ranging areas of contemporary relevance. HCMNAP is the premier training institute for the senior Party and State officials of Vietnam and together with its Centre for India Studies, plays a key role in developing scholarship on India in Vietnam and promotion of academic exchanges with Indian institutions.

Ambassador's Visit to Thua Thien Hue Province (26 March 2022)

As part of Embassy’s outreach to provinces of Vietnam, Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Thua Thien Hue on 26 March 2022 and met the Party Secretary of the province H.E. Mr. Le Truong Luu. They discussed cooperation in areas ranging across trade and business, digital economy, healthcare and sustainable development. They agreed to mark the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations by promoting closer people-to-people contacts through exchange of cultural troupes, celebration of the International Day of Yoga and facilitation of tourism.

Inauguration of Quick Impact Project for School Building in Hue Province (26 March 2022)

During his visit to Thua Thien Hue province on 26 March 2022, Ambassador Pranay Verma inaugurated a Quick Impact Project (QIP) undertaken with Government of India’s grant assistance for the construction of a classroom block for the Xuan Duong kindergarten of Quang An commune in Quang Dien district. The project will benefit nearly 250 children of the commune and will also serve as a shelter for the people of the commune during natural disasters. India’s Quick Impact Projects support local development efforts in Vietnam by bringing direct benefits to grassroots communities and contribute to Vietnam’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Ambassador's Visit to Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture (27 March 2022)

The Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture Bảo tàng Điêu khắc Chăm Đà Nẵng - Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture is a treasure trove of archaeological marvels showcasing the profound civilizational and cultural communication between India and Vietnam over millennia. Ambassador Pranay Verma visited the museum on 27 March 2022 during his recent visit to Danang and thanked the museum for its careful preservation of these precious cultural icons, which include some of the National Treasures of Vietnam. The conservation work being done by the Archaeological Survey of India in the Cham temple complex at My Son are an important part of our collaboration for preservation of these historical treasures.

Ambassador's Visit to Quang Nam Province (28 March 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Quang Nam Province on 28 March 2022 and met the Party Secretary of the province H.E. Mr. Phan Viet Cuong and Chairman of the People’s Committee H.E. Mr. Le Tri Thanh. They discussed a wide range of on-going and potential cooperation between Indian states and Quang Nam in the areas of trade and tourism, healthcare, digital transformation, and sustainable development. In the context of the conservation work being undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India in Quang Nam, both sides agreed to promote closer cultural exchanges, including celebration of the #InternationalDayofYoga in the province.

Ambassador's Visit to My Son for India-Vietnam Cultural Festival (28 March)

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence #AmritMahotsav, the Embassy of India in partnership with the Provincial People’s Committee of Quang Nam organised an India-Vietnam Cultural Festival on 28 March 2022 at the World Heritage Site of My Son where Archaeological Survey of India has undertaken extensive conservation of three Cham temple complexes. Ambassador Pranay Verma, joined by the Vice Chairman of Quang Nam province Mr. Tran Van Tan, attended the event showcasing a variety of programmes, including cultural performances, a photo exhibition and a seminar with Indian and Vietnamese scholars on the theme of India-Vietnam cultural and civilizational exchanges. Before the event, Ambassador and Vice Chairman also visited the Temple Block ‘A’ restored by the Archaeological Survey of India, which includes the 9th century CE monolithic sandstone Shivalingam designated as the National Treasure of Vietnam.

Webinar to Explore Trade and Investment Opportunities between Haryana and Nghe An Province (30 March 2022)

The Embassy of India in Hanoi, in partnership with the State Government of Haryana and Nghe An Provincial People’s Committee, hosted a webinar on 30 March 2022 to explore trade and investment opportunities between Haryana and Nghe An. Both sides discussed cooperation in several potential areas, including manufacturing sector, auto components, food processing, digital economy, urban and industrial zones development etc. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pranay Verma highlighted the importance of provincial-level cooperation as a driver of economic ties between India and Vietnam, and noted that both Haryana and Nghe An offered mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities with their progressive economic policies and advantageous geographic locations. From Nghe An, Vice Chairman of Provincial People’s Committee Mr. Le Ngoc Hoa and from Haryana, Principal Secretary Foreign Cooperation Department Mr. Yogendra Chaudhary participated along with stakeholders from business chambers on both sides. Consul General of India in HCM City Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi delivered the vote of thanks.

Embassy Hosts Interaction for PM’s “Pariksha Pe Charcha” – 2022 (02.04.2022)

To mark the 5th edition of Prime Minister’s interaction for #ParikshaPeCharcha2022, the Embassy organized the event’s screening along with an interactive session with Indian and Vietnamese students, teachers and parents living in Hanoi. On the occasion, Ambassador also presented awards to the Indian and Vietnamese students who participated in the 4th and 5th editions of the #VandeBharatQuiz and the #WorldHindiDay event recently hosted by the Embassy to celebrate the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav.

Inauguration of Quick Impact Projects in Hau Giang Province (06.04.2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Hau Giang province in the Mekong Delta Region of Vietnam on 6 April 2022 to inaugurate two Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in water resource management implemented with grant assistance of Government of India. He interacted with the beneficiaries of the projects and visited some of the households receiving clean water using these new facilities. He was joined by the Vice Chairman of Hau Giang People’s Committee, H.E. Mr. Truong Canh Tuyen and Consul General Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi. One of the QIPs entailed laying more than 4 km long clean water pipeline and supplying water tanks to nearly 200 households in Long My district which is frequently affected by droughts and saltwater intrusion. The other QIP related to dredging of fresh water storage channel and installation of an advanced water-saving irrigation system over 5.5 hectares of land and an automatic salinity measurement station in Chau Thanh district. India’s QIPs complement development efforts at the local level and bring direct benefits to grassroots communities, thus contributing to Vietnam’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Inauguration of Quick Impact Project in Kien Giang Province (07.04.2022)

During his visit to the Mekong Delta Region of Vietnam, Ambassador Pranay Verma inaugurated a Quick Impact Project (QIP) in Kien Giang province on 7 April 2022 under which Government of India has provided grant assistance for supplying 1000 litre water containers to more than 800 households in four coastal districts of the province. The project benefits nearly 3300 people in an area affected by drinking water scarcity due to frequent draughts and deep saltwater intrusion. During the visit, Ambassador was received by the Vice Chairman of Kien Giang Provincial People’s Committee, H.E. Mr. Nguyen Luu Trung. Consul General of India, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi joined. Under the ongoing QIP programme, Government of India has provided assistance for seven projects in water resource management in four provinces of the Mekong Delta Region of Vietnam - Tien Giang, Kien Giang, Hau Giang and Ben Tre - to help the region deal with severe scarcity of clean water and to bring benefits directly to local communities.

India-Vietnam Tourism Promotion Event (08.04.2022)

As part of initiatives to promote tourism exchanges between India and Vietnam, the Consulate General of India in partnership with the Kien Giang People’s Committee, organized an India-Vietnam Tourism Promotion event in Phu Quoc City on 8 April 2022. Ambassador Pranay Verma addressed the event and highlighted the importance of tourism sector in the post-pandemic socio-economic recovery. He expressed optimism that with focused efforts from both sides and with restoration of air connectivity, the tourism flow between India and Vietnam will significantly rise in 2022. He also highlighted India’s numerous tourism attractions for Vietnamese tourists, including our shared Buddhist heritage. Representatives from India’s Ministry of tourism, Kien Giang Tourism Department as well as tour and travel industry of both countries joined the interaction. Consul General of India Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi gave the concluding remarks.

Embassy Marked Ambedkar Jayanti (14.04.2022)

The Embassy family paid tributes to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and one of the founding fathers of modern India, on his 131st Birth Anniversary. His life and legacy will always inspire us.

Inauguration of Quick Impact Project in Thanh Hoa Province (14.04.2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Thanh Hoa province on 14 April 2022 and inaugurated a new hall for specialized activities at Hoang Quy Secondary School in Hoang Hoa district constructed with Indian grant assistance under the Quick Impact Project (QIP) programme. The new facility will assist the school in creating an archive of its history and achievements and will also house educational material for students to learn about the Indian culture and cultures of other countries. During the visit, Chairman of Thanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee, H.E. Mr. Do Minh Tuan hosted a lunch meeting for Ambassador, during which both sides discussed possibilities for wide-ranging cooperation. Vice Chairman of Thanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee, Mr. Mai Xuan Lien was also present.

Inauguration of Quick Impact Project in Nghe An Province (14.04.2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Nghe An province on 14 April 2022 to inaugurate the new building with six classroom blocks at the Ma Thanh Kindergarten in Yan Thanh district, constructed with the grant assistance from Government of India under the Quick Impact Project (QIP) programme. The project contributes to the efforts of the local government in developing educational infrastructure at grassroots level. India’s development partnership with Vietnam is an important dimension of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and its people-centric character.

Ambassador's Interaction with Students from Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (6 May 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma hosted a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV) in the Embassy on 6 May 2022 and interacted with them on a range of issues such as functioning of the Embassy, role of diplomats in the contemporary world, achievements of India in 75 years since its independence, recent achievements in India-Vietnam relations and so on. DAV is the training ground for future Vietnamese diplomats. Amb. Tôn Sinh Thanh, former Ambassador of Vietnam to India and currently a faculty member of DAV, led the group of students to the luncheon interaction.

Celebration of Gurudev Tagore's Birth Anniversary (7 May 2022)

On the occasion of the 161st birth anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Ambassador Pranay Verma paid floral tributes to Gurudev’s bust at the National Museum of Literature in Hanoi. To mark the occasion and to celebrate the #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav, the Embassy and the Swami Vivekananda Culture Centre in Hanoi also organized a webinar on Gurudev Tagore’s contributions to India-Vietnam relations. Prominent Vietnamese and Indian scholars - including the Chairman of Vietnam Writers’ Association, Mr. Nguyen Quang Thieu, Dr. Do Thu Ha from University of Social Sciences in Hanoi and Dr. Om Prakash from India’s Gautam Buddha University - shared their thoughts about the life and vision of Gurudev. In his opening remarks, Ambassador reflected on the deep imprint Gurudev Tagore’s visit to Vietnam in June 1929 left on the intellectual exchanges as well as the national movements of India and Vietnam.

Ambassador's Visit to Khanh Hoa Province for Tourism Promotion Event (9 May 2022)

During his visit to Khanh Hoa Province on 9 May 2022, Ambassador Pranay Verma met the Provincial People’s Committee Chairman H.E. Mr. Nguyen Tan Tuan and discussed possibilities for bilateral cooperation in wide-ranging areas including trade, investment and tourism. Chairman of Khanh Hoa Province also hosted Ambassador over a working dinner. During the visit, Ambassador delivered remarks at a Tourism promotion event organized by the Consulate General of India in partnership with the Khanh Hoa Provincial Government. He highlighted various tourism opportunities in India, including our shared Buddhist heritage, for Vietnamese visitors. Vice Chairman of Khanh Hoa Province, Mr. Le Huu Hoang also participated. Representatives from India’s Ministry of Tourism and State Government of Rajasthan joined online. The event included a B2B interaction between the tour and travel operators from both countries.

Vesak Day at Yen Phu Pagoda in Hanoi ( 12 May 2022)

The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), Vietnam-India Friendship Association of Hanoi (HAVIFA) in coordination with the Swami Vivekananda Culture Center, Embassy of India, marked the Vesak Day at Yen Phu Pagoda, Hanoi.

Ambassador's Visit to Ben Tre Province for Inauguration of QIP (13 May 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited the Mekong Delta province of Ben Tre on 13 May 2022 and met the Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee H.E. Mr. Tran Ngoc Tam to explore bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism and development partnership. He was joined by Consul General of India, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi. During the visit, Ambassador inaugurated the Quick Impact Project (QIP) for Thoi Dinh Irrigation Canal in Cho Lach District of Ben Tre constructed with the grant assistance of Government of India. Ben Tre is an important fruit producing province of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region but also suffers from growing levels of saline intrusion in farmlands. The new water channel infrastructure created with GOI assistance will restrict sea water from entering into nearly 100 hectares of fruit orchard, thereby directly benefitting local community in raising their fruit harvest. During Ambassador’s interaction with the local community members, they expressed deep appreciation for India’s assistance for this project and noted that it had raised the annual income of each household by nearly US$ 2000. Ambassador was joined by the Vice Chairman of Ben Tre, Mr. Nguyen Minh Canh during the event. QIPs are a key platform for India-Vietnam development partnership contributing to grassroots level development and helping Vietnam’s efforts towards meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ambassador's Visit to Tien Giang for Inauguration of QIP (14 May 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Tien Giang Province in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam on 14 May 2022 to inaugurate a Quick Impact Project (QIP) for two rain water storage reservoirs in the coastal district of Tan Phu Dong built with grant assistance of Government of India. The area suffers from severe shortage of clean water. With the construction of these reservoirs, more than 500 households have now got access to clean drinking water. During his visit to the project site, Ambassador interacted with local beneficiaries and thanked them for their active cooperation in quick completion of the project. He was joined during the visit by the Vice Chairman of People’s Council of Tien Giang, Mr. Tran Thanh Nguyen and Consul General of India, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi. The project is part of seven QIPs in water resource management in the Mekong Delta Region undertaken with Indian assistance in the last one year.

Vesak Day Celebrations (15 May 2022)

Description: Vesak Day Celebrations. Ambassador Pranay Verma paid respects at the Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi and joined the Vesak Day celebrations organized by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha on 15 May 2022. In media interactions during the event, Ambassador reaffirmed the age-old Buddhist linkages between India and Vietnam and their importance in promoting people-to-people exchanges in modern times.

Ambassador's Visit to Quang Ninh Province (21 May 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited Quang Ninh province on 21 May 2022 and held discussions with Party Secretary of the province H.E. Mr. Nguyen Xuan Ky on wide-ranging collaborations between the two sides. They agreed to organize a number of events this year to mark the 50 years of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations and 75 years of India’s Independence, and to promote trade, tourism and cultural exchanges, including the celebration of the International Day of Yoga in Quang Ninh province.

Ambassador's Visit to Vinh Phuc Province ( 2 June 2022)

As part of celebrations for #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav in Vietnam and the 50th anniversary celebrations for India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations #IndiaVietnamAt50, the Embassy organized a colourful cultural programme in partnership with the Vinh Yen Secondary School in Vinh Phuc Province on 2 June 2022. Ambassador Pranay Verma addressed the students of the school and opened a photo exhibition on India. A painting competition on “Buddhist Architecture in India and Vietnam” was also launched. To mark the occasion, Ambassador planted an “India-Vietnam Friendship Tree” in the school campus. In his interaction with the students, Ambassador encouraged them to visit India to understand the country and our shared heritage, and to contribute to the future development of India-Vietnam friendship. During the trip, Ambassador visited the production plants of some of the Indian enterprises which have invested in Vinh Phuc. He also met the Standing Vice Chairman of the province, Mr. Vũ Viet Văn and discussed ways to further promote trade, investment and tourism engagement between India and Vinh Phuc.

Ambassador's Reception for IN-VN Parliamentary Friendship Group of National Assembly (6 June 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma hosted a luncheon reception on 6 June 2022 at the India House for a delegation from National Assembly (NA) of Vietnam led by the Chairman of NA’s Foreign Affairs Committee, His Excellency Vu Hai Ha and Chairman of Vietnam-India Parliamentray Friendship Group in NA, His Excellency Duong Thanh Binh. Both sides underlined the importance of Parliamentary exchanges in promoting bilateral ties and expressed happiness over the recent momentum in high-level visits between the two Parliaments. Ambassador also briefed the National Assembly members on some of the key developments in India and in India-Vietnam relations in the context of the twin landmarks being celebrated this year - the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations #IndiaVietnamAt50 and the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav

Ambassador's Remarks at VASS-VIISAS Seminar on IN-VN 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations (15 June 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma delivered opening remarks at an international conference organized by the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences (VASS) and the Vietnam Institute for Indian and Southwest Asian Studies, Hanoi (VIISAS) on 15 June 2020 to mark the the 50th anniversary of India-Vietnam Diploamtic Relations and the 10th anniversary of the founding of VIISAS. The event was also addressed by the President of VASS, Associate Prof. Dr. Bui Nhat Quang. Ambassador conveyed his deep appreciation for the contributions made by VIISAS over the last 10 years to promote research and scholarship on India and India-Vietnam relations and lauded its emergence as a premier institute for India-related studies in Vietnam. The day-long conference was attended by several eminent scholars and strategic experts of India and Vietnam.

Inauguration of QIP Project in Lao Cai Province (23 June 2022)

During his recent visit to Lao Cai Province, Ambassador Pranay Verma inaugurated the Quick Impact Project (QIP) for construction of a new classroom and dining block at Trung Chai Commune Kindergarten in Sa Pa, jointly with the Minister-Chairman of Commission for Ethnic Minority Affairs of Vietnam, H.E. Mr. Hau A Lenh on 23 June 2022. The project was completed in less than six months with grant assistance of Government of India and creates a valuable infrastructure for children’s education at the community level. The new facility is another vivid example of how India’s QIPs continue to contribute to Vietnam’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Visit of INS Sahyadri and INS Kadmatt to Vietnam (24 June 2022)

Visit of INS Sahyadri and INS Kadmatt to Vietnam. The Indian Naval Ships SAHYADRI and KADMATT arrived at Nha Rong Port at Ho Chi Minh City on 24 June 2022 on a three-day goodwill visit to Vietnam. The visit of the two ships is an important part of the naval exchanges between India and Vietnam and reflect the deepening Defence Partnership between the two countries as they celebrate the 50 years of their diplomatic ties. Ambassador Pranay Verma visited INS SAHYADRI at the Nha Rong Port in Ho Chi Minh City on 25 June 2022 and interacted with the leaders and crew members of the visiting Indian Naval Ships. He also hosted a dinner reception together with Flag Officer Commanding of Eastern Fleet of Indian Navy, Rear Admiral Sanjay Bhalla on-board INS Sahyadri. Senior officials from Vietnam People’s Navy and People’s Committee of HCM City, along with members of Indian diaspora in Vietnam, joined the event.

8th IDY Celebrations in Vietnam – 2022 (June 2022)

The 8th IDY celebrations were organised in 25 cities and provinces of Vietnam during May/June 2022 by the Embassy of India, Hanoi and the Consulate General of India, HCM City.

Ambassador Addresses Event to Promote Pharmaceutical Cooperation with Vietnam (5 July 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma virtually addressed the “India – Vietnam Pharmaceuticals & Health Industry Conference”, jopintly organised by the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ho Chi Minh Branch (VCCI-HCM). The event was followed by a B2B meet, at Le Meridien Hotel, District 1, HCMC. The event was also attended by Mr. Tran Ngoc Liem, General Director of VCCI-HCM, Mr. Murali Krishna, Director of Pharmexcil, Dr. Ta Manh Hung, Dy Director General, Drug Administration of Viet Nam (DAV), Ministry of Health, Master Le Ngoc Danh, Dy. Head, Drug Technique Division, Department of Health of Ho Chi Minh City. More than 100 Indian and Vietnamese companies majoring in pharmaceutical sector joined the event and had successfully B2B meetings.

Ambassador's Visit to Ho Chi Minh City to Promote Bilateral Cooperation (6 July 2022)

During his visit to Ho Chi Minh City on 6 July 2022, Ambassador Pranay Verma met the Party Secretary of HCM City and Politburo Member, H.E. Mr. Nguyen Van Nen and discussed bilateral cooperation in wide-ranging areas. Consul General Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi also accompanied him. Party Secretary Nen had a very productive visit to India in June 2022 as part of high-level exchanges during the 50th anniversary year of India-Vietnam Diplomatic Relations.

Ambassador's Visit Tuyen Quang Province to Promote Development Partnership (7-8 July 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma visited the northern province of Tuyen Quang on 7-8 July 2022 to inaugurate two school projects implemented under Government of India’s Quick Impact Project (QIP) programme in the province. The school infrastructure constructed respectively in Binh An and Hong Quang communes in the remote Lam Binh district have greatly facilitated primary education in this mountainous district inhabited by ethnic minority communities, thus contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals of Vietnam. During his visit, Ambassador also met the Party Secretary of Tuyen Quang province H.E. Mr. Chau Van Lam and discussed bilateral cooperation opportunities in areas such as healthcare, education, trade and investment, tourism and cultural exchanges. Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/IndiaInVietnam/posts/pfbid02b53Sm8Pp4NMGUXDEDisUcLukLc4BSn7rhSQKCQqdf5sLpxKKdhJzg55oPQWqRJr2l

Prize Distribution for AKAM Painting Competition (27 July 2022)

Ambassador Pranay Verma gave away prizes to the winners and participants of the Painting Competition "Famous icons of India and Vietnam" on 27 July. The competition was launched by Embassy of India & Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Hanoi on 17 December 2021 as part of celebrations to mark 75 years of India’s independence and 50 years of bilateral ties. The competition witnessed participation by Vietnamese friends and members of Indian community. In his opening remarks at the Prize Distribution Ceremony, Ambassador Pranay Verma noted that such events generate goodwill amongst the people of the two countries. Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/IndianCultureInVietnam/posts/pfbid0xYoZtBZ9QBTFyvT2weXwFNj9EXDNWAAEHKciuXfopP68GrQfJrDWdGtok48feJwGl