Diaspora optimistic |
The enthusiastic Indian diaspora gathered in Virginia to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s address voiced optimism about the future of India-US ties under the leadership of Modi and President Donald Trump. The nearly 600 Indian-Americans said they believe that the millions-strong Indian diaspora in the US can make a big difference in the bilateral ties. Modi explained to the audience the welfare programmes his government has launched in past three years. Sudhir Parikh, a long time community leader, expected the two leaders to discuss bilateral defence deals, the H1B visa and other immigration issues and the Paris climate deal. Meanwhile, a group of pro-Khalistan Sikhs protested outside the venue of Modi`s addressing to the diaspora, holding placards "Don`t Invest in India" and "India Committed Genocide of Sikhs. The activists who had traveled from across the US and Canada shouted slogans in favour of Punjab independence referendum 2020 to create a Sikh country "Khalistan". Before Modi`s address to the community, a short film was shown highlighting his government`s achievements and policies over the past three years, including the demonetisation drive, Goods and Services Tax, and the Clean India campaign.
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