RIYADH/JEDDAH, 27 January 2004 — The Embassy of India in Riyadh launched its website — www.indianembassy.org.sa. — on the country’s Republic Day yesterday. The announcement of the website was made after the flag-raising ceremony at the embassy. Later, Ambassador Kamaluddin Ahmed read President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s address to the nation. Consul General Syed Akbaruddin unfurled the flag in Jeddah at a well-attended ceremony.
The website, constructed by the embassy staff with the cooperation of website designers, contains a wealth of information.
Those intending to apply for a visa, passport renewal or any other consular service can now download the application from the website.
Updated information about community welfare, passport and visa formalities, Saudi-India relations and media releases are also on the website.
The website also addresses some concerns that may arise in an emergency, such as procedures to be followed in death cases. Other information pertains to non-resident Indians, persons of Indian origin, recruitment procedures and information for those returning permanently to India.
“The website will be updated constantly,” the ambassador said. Webmasters of NRI portals said they would provide a link to the embassy website in the broader interest of the community.
In his Republic Day speech, the president outlined the growing Indian economy and urged all to work toward transforming the country into a “competitive beautiful nation.”
He spelled out a plan of action invovling service to society, primary education, protecting the brand image of higher education, examination reforms, agriculture and agro food processing, pharmaceuticals, space, defense, energy and civic awareness.
He asked voters to cast ballots in the general elections for the 14th Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament).
He also administered a 10-point oath to the nation’s youth. “Let’s rededicate ourselves on this occasion to work toward making India a prosperous, happy and secure nation, and bring smiles to the country’s billion faces.”
The event in Jeddah was marked with patriotic songs sung by Indian International School children.
Among the songs were poet Pradeep’s inspiring “Ai mere watan ke logon, zara aankh mein bharlo pani” which was sung by Lata Mangeshkar.
Official receptions were held in the evening both in Riyadh and Jeddah to mark the event. They were attended by local officials, diplomats and businessmen, in addition to members of the community.
