High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago B 3 / 26, Vasant Vihar New Delhi - 110057, India Tel No: +91 11 46007500 Fax No: +91 11 46007505 Website: www.hc4.net Email: [email protected]

Printed by India Empire Publications: +91.9899117477 Design and Layout: H.E. Chandradath Singh Contents

President’s message

Prime Minister’s message

Indian Prime Minister’s speech at CHOGM

High Commissioner’s message

Presenta3on of creden3als

Prime Minister’s speech at PBD 2012

Photographic coverage of Prime Minister’s Visit

Media coverage of PM’s Visit

Indian Prime Minister’s visit to TnT

Cricket reflec3ons by Ravi Chaturvedi

Mission and West Indies team in India

Famous Trinidad and Tobago cricketers

50 years of Hindi movies

The Olympic Dream

Indian Arrival Day

Emancipa3on Day

Eco Tourism TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO : IDEALLY LOCATED

Leading world exporter of menthol, ammonia and LNG...

...World’s best tourist destination 2012

4 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Message from the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

His Excellency Professor George Maxwell Richards President

t is with great pleasure that I bring greet - The strong bonds between us and the estab - ings on the occasion of the dual celebra - lishment of High Commissions in our respec - tion of the 50th anniversary of Trinidad tive countries have resulted in fruitful and Tobago’s Independence as well as fifty relationships which facilitate cooperation in en - years of diplomatic relations with the Republic ergy exploration, trade, technical training, aca - Iof India. demic pursuits and cultural exchanges, inter alia. History shows that the relationship between In spite of the geographical distance be - Trinidad and Tobago and India predates the es - tween our countries, the people of Trinidad and tablishment of diplomatic ties in 1962, by more Tobago and of India have developed great than a century. Our peoples came together in affinity for one another, our mutual respect al - circumstances which were less than auspicious, ways being manifest as we pursue our countries’ the first group of indentured labourers making interests. the journey from India, in 1845, to the unknown In closing, I extend best wishes to our offi - and distant territory of Trinidad and Tobago. cial representatives at the High Commission and The expectations of those who made that elsewhere in India and to all members of the journey may not have been fully realised, but the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora in India on the choice made by many of them not to return to 50th anniversary of our Independence. their homeland set the path that countless others I also extend best wishes to the people and would follow, resulting in the significant pres - government of India, for whom we have the ence and contribution of those of Indian her - highest regard, on the anniversary of the estab - itage to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. lishment of diplomatic relations between Those early Indian immigrants brought with Trinidad and Tobago and the Republic of India. them thousands of years of history and tradi - May God continue to bless both our na - tion which have been maintained, in consider - tions! able measure, within their communities, here in Trinidad and Tobago and which have, in many ways, positively influenced the entire national community.

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 5 INVESTMENT IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

6 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE PRIME MINISTER’S MESSAGE

Message from the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

commend our High Commission for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago based in New Delhi on Hon’ble Kamla Persad-Bissessar their valuable work towards strengthening rela - Prime Minister tions between our nations. Steady, proactive in - terface by the High Commission has stimulated cannot imagine a present-day Trinidad economic, commercial, technical and cultural co- and Tobago without the enriched culture operation with the Republic of India. and heritage with which our nation has In this year of Trinidad and Tobago’s been gifted from our “grandmother” – Golden Anniversary of Independence, I note the Republic of India. As we celebrate that India celebrates 65 years of Independence our 50th Independence Anniversary, this mile - on August 15th 2012. On behalf of the Govern - stone is made even more momentous as it also ment and people of Trinidad and Tobago, I ex - Imarks 50 years of diplomatic relations with our tend Independence Day greetings to the people counterparts in India. and Government of India. Indeed, the year 2012 is a special one for bi - To the nationals of Trinidad and Tobago res - lateral relations between Trinidad and Tobago ident in India, I wish you all a very Happy An - and India. In January, I led a high-level delegation niversary. I know that in heart and spirit you are on an historic official visit to India. Our mission with us here at home as we celebrate this mo - themed “Trinidad and Tobago–India 2012: Partnering mentous occasion. I encourage you to continue for Diversification, Innovation and Investment” was a to promote the achievements and aspirations of successful one as it allowed for the conclusion of Trinidad and Tobago to your family, friends and multiple bilateral agreements in the areas of air colleagues abroad. transport, culture, education, traditional medi - Once again, to the Government and people cines, agriculture and technical co-operation. of the India I wish you a wonderful 65th An - Importantly, my delegation was able to en - niversary of Independence. I wish for your gage several private and public sector companies country the success, peace and prosperity that and agencies in discussions to attract investment we wish for ourselves in the Republic of and technical co-operation to Trinidad and To - Trinidad and Tobago, as we proudly commemo - bago. Already, our respective Ministries have ex - rate the Golden Jubilee of our Independence. perienced positive developments following the Just as the waters of the Ganges River nourish mission to India. the Indian subcontinent, may the vivacity of our I was also deeply honoured to be awarded the nations’ peoples sustain what is already a great Pravasi Bharatiya Samman 2012. Again, I extend historic, cultural and diplomatic relationship. my sincere thanks to the Government and people God bless you and God bless our great of India for a memorable and productive visit. I nations.

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 7 PHOTOGRAPHIC COVERAGE OF PRIME MINISTER’S VISIT

PRIME MINISTER HON. KAMLA PERSAD-BISSESSAR’S STATE VISIT TO INDIA

Prime Minister inspecting the Guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan

Prime Minister being received by the President Prime Minister inspecting the Guard of honour and being of the India at Rashtrapati Bhavan received by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

Prime Minister and members of her delegation at Gandhi Memorial, Raj Ghat Prime Minister meeting the Governor of Rajasthan

8 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE INDIAN PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH AT CHOGM

“I celebrate our pluralism”

and dynamic symbol of our own globalization process. There is a fundamental difference between the global - ization of India and many other developing countries. For us, globalization is a natural means of linking up with the world community of Indians. As I have often said, if there Hon’ble Manmohan Singh is one phenomenon in the world over which the sun truly Prime Minister never sets, it is the phenomenon of the global community of people of Indian origin. It is often said that the 21st century will be the “knowl - Excerpted from Prime Minister Dr Manmohan edge century”. We in India are proud of our inheritance in Singh’s address at the Indian Community Reception on this respect. Overseas Indians have played an extremely im - the sidelines of CHOGM at Port of Spain, Trinidad portant role in global brand building for this purpose. I was and Tobago in the United States earlier this week and felt proud as an In - dian to meet so many people of Indian origin doing so well My wife and I are truly delighted to be here with you all in so many different walks of life. If India is today viewed as this evening. We bring with us good wishes and good tidings a “knowledge economy” it is because of the reputation that from the people of India. people of Indian origin worldwide have earned through their I am happy to be here in this beautiful country to par - creativity, through their adventure, enterprise and diligence. ticipate in the Commonwealth Heads of Government meet - India today seeks to tap the wellspring of Indian cre - ing. The Commonwealth encompasses countries around the ativity and enterprise from around the world. Our ability to world where people of Indian origin have made a mark. In do so will depend on our ability to forge partnerships, on different and diverse countries the people of Indian origin the one hand, and our ability to provide the proper enabling have successfully blended Indian culture and values with the environment for the flowering of such partnerships back local cultural and social environment. In doing so, you have home. Our Government is committed to cementing a new demonstrated the unique liberalism and pluralism of the bond of mutually beneficial collaboration between India great Indian civilization. This is what enables each one of us and people of Indian origin around the world. to adapt and adopt to new homes and new neighbourhoods. I have often said that long before Indians crossed the When I meet the people of Indian origin around the world, seas as workers, they travelled the world as traders and great I celebrate our pluralism as much as I celebrate our great civi - teachers. Time was when the Indian gurukul system and our lizational inheritance. Indianness is like a large and all-encom - universities at Takshila, Nalanda and Nagarjuna were the passing banyan . It offers shade to everyone who comes in envy of the world. I am conscious of the fact that an impor - search of it. It has deep tant demand of the overseas at home and branches that in Indian community is to se - turn go to great distances and cure access to educational strike roots there. Today’s opportunities in India. That India is on the move, just as is why our Government has the people of Indian origin are been widening educational on the move. India is reaching opportunities for people of out to the world with confi - Indian origin in India. dence and in a Spirit of live I know many of your and let live. In reaching out to children wish to experience people of Indian origin, we are the new India, having heard also reaching out to the world about an old India from at large. You are, for millions their parents and grand of Indians, the most visible Hon. Winston Dookeran greets Dr Manmohan Singh, Indian PM parents.

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 9 HIGH COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE

Message from H.E. Chandradath Singh, High Commissioner of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

H.E. Mr Chandradath Singh Carnival and by extension hundreds of carnivals High Commissioner around the Globe. The Asa Wright Nature center, the Caroni Bird Sanctuary,the Point-a-Pierre Wild Every country has a specific flag as its national Fowl Trust and the famous “Nylon Pool” in To - symbol. The seven basic colors that are used in all bago, have placed Trinidad and Tobago on the national flags, in different combinations (basically 2 world map for outstanding nature centers and to3 colors), express the dreams and hopes; strug - eco- tourism. We have also excelled in sports with gles and triumphs as well as aspirations and victo - our sportsmen and sportswomen winning several ries of its people. Bronze, Silver and Gold medals at Olympic Fifty years of Independence is a good juncture games, beginning in 1948 and ending with from which we could reflect on the true meaning Keshorn Walcott winning gold in the Javelin at of the National Flag of Trinidad and Tobago, this year’s Olympics. which is one of the most important binding factors WHITE is the sea by which these lands are in our Nation’s history. Fifty years of respect, love bound: the cradle of our heritage; the purity of our and dedication to its Red, White and Black, have in - aspirations and the equality of all men and women spired us as a people and helped to strengthen our under the sun. The National Motto of Trinidad and resolve to build a strong and more prosperous Tobago “Together We Aspire Together we Trinidad and Tobago, that can take its rightful place achieve”, gives further meaning to the “White” of among the nations of this world. our flag and helps to explain the relative peace and RED represents the vitality of the land and its tranquility with which our people live in a world people, its warmth and energy of the sea, and the torn by violence and disharmony. The Inter Reli - courage and friendliness of its people. Trinidad gious Organization of Trinidad and Tobago, which and Tobago has amply demonstrated this meaning has been in existence for many years,is a successful of Red by being voted the World’s Best tourist experiment in tolerance and peaceful co-existence. destination for 2012and The Favourite Cultural The Chairmanship of this organization rotates and, Destination for 2012. This is because our people at any given point of time, a Hindu, a Muslim or a are warm, welcoming, vibrant and creative. We in - Christian, among others, would be representing all vented the Steelpan, which is the only new musical religions in the land. Active participation, by instrument created in the 20th century and created Trinidad and Tobago nationals, from all ethnic new musical dimensions with our “Parang music”, backgrounds, in each other’s social, religious and “Chutney music” and “Tassa drumming”. Trinidad cultural practices, is another unique feature of the and Tobago’s style carnival has energized and common aspirations, tolerance and peaceful co-ex - brought cultural empowerment to millions of istence o our people. people around the world e.g. at Nottinghill Carni - BLACK represents for us the dedication of val in London, CARIBANA Carnival in Canada, the people joined together by one strong bond. It Miami Carnival, Washington Carnival, Orlando is the colour of strength of unity of purpose and

10 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE of the wealth of the land. In spite of being a small we are the Caribbean standard-bearer for indus - state with limited resources, the people of Trinidad trial, business and economic development. We and Tobago have shown how dedication and unity have a stable democracy with routine, orderly of purpose in exploiting the resources of the land changes of Governments. T&T boasts of a well can bring just rewards. We are one of the leading educated labour force with highly skilled workers world exportersof methanol,ammonia and LNG. in the oil and gas sector. We are the biggest economy and financial Capital The Red,White and Black chosen for our Na - of the Caribbean with a soundly regulated financial tional Flag therefore, represent the elements; earth, system and profitable,well capitalized banks. In Water and Fire which encompasses all our past, fact T&T has received investment grade credit rat - present and future and inspire us to be a united, ings from Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s and free and dedicated people.

Fifty Years of Diplomatic Relations between Trinidad and Tobago and India

Trinidad and Tobago and India have much to livered a lecture on Gandhi in October 1959 and celebrate in this Golden Jubilee Year of our rela - said that the traditions against which he fought in tions. We are vastly different in our physical size, South Africa were in some respects very similar to but this does not matter because it is the common those which existed in Trinidad at the time. He aspirations of our people, the dream of a better ended his lecture by highlighting Gandhi’s method world for all,the mutual respect for each other’s his - of passive resistence and the highly spiritual quality tory,religion,culture,social customs and our respec - of his life. Dr. Williams thought that to acquaint tive Independence as nations that unite us. ourselves to Gandhi’s life to whatever degree, can The foundation for this unity was laid in the only lead to the enrichment of our own. 50’s by Dr. Eric Williams, first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago and Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. I.J. Bahadursingh first Prime Minister of India who were united in Trinidad and Tobago national I.J. Bahadursingh their struggles for the freedom and Independence also played a significant role in laying the founda - of their respective countries.They were both at Ox - tion for the long and cherished relations between ford and they shared the same vision for Independ - Trinidad and Tobago and India. He studied at Ox - ence and were part of the Nationalist movement at ford University alongside Nehru and developed a that time. As a historian, Williams admired Nehru’s strong bond with him. I.J. joined the Oxford Majlis glimpses of world history that placed the history Society through which he became immersed in of India in its true perspective. India’s struggle for Independence. Dr. Williams also admired Tagore for his po - Back in India, Pundit Nehru encouraged Ba - etry and the impact he had on the na - hadursingh to come to India in the tionalist movement. The influence service of his ancestral home. This which Tagore had on him was evident he did and not only was he involved in the lecture which he delivered on in India’s struggle for Independence Tagore at the Queen’s Hall in Port of but remained and served in the post Spain on May 6th 1961, at the invita - of Chief of Protocol and Ambassa - tion of the Indian High Commission. dor to several countries. Bahadurs - Gandhi had an even greater im - ingh, the freedom fighter, also pact on Dr. Williams and might have became involved in the Independ - even influenced his work in laying the ence struggle in Africa where he was foundation for the Independence of honoured with an Honorary Kikuyu Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Williams de - Chiefdom. Dr Eric Williams with Pandit Nehru

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 11 PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS

PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS

Credentials presented by Mr Chandradath Singh to the Presidents of India (above) and Sri Lanka (below)

12 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS

Credentials presented by Mr Chandradath Singh to the Presidents of Singapore (above) and Bangladesh (below)

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 13 ADVERTISEMENT

14 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH AT PBD 2012

Excerpted from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s address at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Jaipur “India is our grandmother” Greetings nomic development in their homeland but also to shape and • Prime Minister of the Republic of India Dr the Hon - sustain positive images of the country of origin thus con - ourable Manmohan Singh tributing to its international stature. • Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Mr Ashok Gehlot It is true that today, with the rapid advances of commu - • Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr Vayalar Ravi nications technology, we live in an ever smaller global vil - • Secretary, Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr lage. It is thus easier than ever before for countries to reach ParvezDewan out to their Diaspora community and establish relationships • President, Confederation of Indian Industry, Mr B. which can prove equally beneficial to their adopted homes, Muthuraman the countries of origin and the members of the Diaspora. • Officials of the Government of India and Trinidad and I feel compelled to note that India offers an impressive Tobago example of excellent leadership in the management of Di - • Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen aspora relations and has in a significant way provided a • Brothers and Sisters of the Diaspora model for other countries to beneficially engage their Dias - pora community. Namaste and good morning. Through your Ministry of Overseas External Affairs, I am deeply honoured to participate in this PravasiB - you have created a pragmatic and effective platform for en - haratiya Divas which marks the occasion of the return of Ma - gaging with the Indian Diaspora around the World. hatma Gandhiji to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915. Such a visionary approach to addressing issues relating I offer my sincerest thanks to the Honourable Prime to the Diaspora has indeed borne fruit, and today India’s Minister and Government of India and by extension the Diaspora is one which remains strongly connected and en - people of India for the invitation extended to me and mem - gaged with India. The potential mutual benefits to be ac - bers of my Government to be present at what has emerged crued from maintaining close ties with the Diaspora are as one of the most important gatherings of people of the many, ranging from opportunities for technical cooperation Indian Diaspora. on a national scale to exchanges between schools Organisa - As I stand before you, I am moved by the sense of co - tions and institutions. operation and unity that the Pravasi represents. I am reminded of a well-known profound statement Trinidadian Freedom Fighter in India and Africa made by Gandhiji who as a member of the Diaspora in Allow me to refer to a most illuminating example of the South Africa led a struggle for equality of treatment and, closely-intertwined histories of Trinidad and Tobago and then in India, the struggle for the freedom of India. India as I highlight the significant role played by a Trinida - “I offer you peace. dian citizen in India’s independence struggle. I offer you love. InderjitBahadursingh studied at Oxford University I offer you friendship. alongside Jawaharlal Nehru, with whom he established a I see your beauty. firm friendship. While at Oxford, Bahadursingh joined the I hear your need. University’s Majlis Society, through which he became im - I feel your feelings. mersed in the Indian struggle for freedom. My wisdom flows from the Highest Source. Nehru encouraged Bahadursingh to ‘return’ to India in I salute that Source in you. service to his ancestral home, and this he did with great ef - Let us work together for unity and love.” fect. Not only was he involved in the Indian Independence It is with this spirit of friendship, cooperation and the struggle, but he also remained in post-Independence India, search for international and domestic peace that I join you joining the Indian foreign service and serving as Chief of here today. Protocol and as Ambassador to several countries. Bahadursingh the freedom fighter also became involved The Power and Significance of the Diaspora in Independence struggles in Africa, where he was hon - In the short time that I have been in India, I can already oured with an honorary Kikuyu chiefdom. feel the warmth of its people and see its rich culture and di - versity. And yet despite the vastness of your country, I note Unity Through Diasporic Linkages with admiration the sense of community and national pride This example amply highlights the underlying, key mes - of the people of India, a nation of over 1 billion strong. sage of what can be gained by reaching out to the Diaspora This sense of pride is also keenly felt among the mem - for any country, and also for welcoming the Diasporas of bers of the Indian Diaspora. other countries. This message is one of international unity- More and more countries are becoming aware of the unity that does not stand isolated, but that crosses oceans, power of the Diaspora to contribute not only to socio-eco - that transcends and blends different cultures.

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 15 PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH AT PBD 2012

By embracing the Diaspora and embodying this sense of international unity, the ways in which we can benefit and support one another as nations, as communities and as in - dividuals are endless. Through the many dynamic and active Diasporas across the globe, we are all reminded that the modern world is now, more than ever before, a melting pot of peoples and cultures. And through significant occasions such as the Pravasi, we are called to reach out to one another regardless of bor - ders or distance to the greater benefit of all.

Diasporas in Diverse Trinidad and Tobago In my own country, Trinidad and Tobago, we enjoy a rich fusion of ethnicities and religions with a blend of peo - ples from across the globe: Africa, India, Europe, the Mid - dle East, China. And I am proud to say that we have come together in our diversity to create the colourful tapestry that is now Trinidadian and Tobagonian society. Hon. Kamla Persad-Bissessar being given a traditional welcome While the large Indo-Trinidadian community continues to by a member of her ancestral family in Bhelupur, Bihar uphold the cultural heritage of their East Indian forefathers who travelled to Trinidad as indentured labourers in 1845, this connected with our budding Diasporic community. cultural legacy does not only remain entrenched in the way of However, Trinidad and Tobago’s bilateral relations with life, ceremonies, dress, names, food and music of Indo-Trinida - India go far beyond simply drawing upon your efforts to dians, but it is also entrenched in the broader Trinbagonian cul - engage the Indian Diaspora. Our technical cooperation, ture. Children of all races and religions light deyas in honour trade and investment linkages and of course our longstand - of Divali, just as Trinbagonians regardless of ethnicity dance ing historical ties which date back to the 19th century have to the beat of a tassa drum and the rhythm of Trinidad’s own all contributed to the present excellent relationship between hybrid chutney soca beat. This is the true beauty of a Diaspora: our two countries, which is characterised by mutual support the ability to maintain the culture of the land of origin and and respect. Within the recent past, the interest in India by seamlessly incorporate it into the fabric of a new home, people in my country has been heightened. thereby enriching the culture of the receiving country. Trinidad and Tobago stands as a true testament to this, Closing where the cultural legacies of Africans, Chinese, Indians, Eu - Prime Minister, you have paid Trinidad and Tobago and ropeans and many more do not merely co-exist, but they me great honour by having me as your Chief Guest. come together to create a culture that is vibrant and dynamic. I am deeply inspired by what is happening here today, Caribbean East Indians have held Mahatma Gandhi in high inspired by the unity of purpose of this gathering which esteem and from the 1930s there were repeated initiatives speaks of a desire to contribute through the application of for him to visit Trinidad and Tobago but sadly he was not one’s skills and resources for the benefit of humanity. able to accept. However, in 1945 when a group of young I see in this Pravasi the spirit of yagna, selfless sacrifice Trinidadians decided to publish the Indian Centenary Re - for the community’s well being and I applaud and draw in - view, commerating the first century of their presence in their spiration from such commitment. new homeland, they immediately asked Bapuji for a message As I commend this important opportunity for the In - on that occasion. Gandhiji responded promptly on the 25th dian Diaspora to come together with the Government of of April 1945 and in his message he wisely advised our pop - India, I wish to leave you all with the simple words of Ra - ulation “domicile Indians prove worthy of the motherland . bindranath Tagore: That reinforces my view that there is only one Mother, “You can’t cross the sea merely by mother Trinidad and Tobago, there is no mother India, standing and staring at the water”. Africa, China, Europe. But there is Grandmother India, In order to effectively reach out to one another, to the grandmother Africa, grandmother China, grandmother Eu - members of our Diasporiccommunities, to nations, to our rope. We all know the Great love that we hold for our neighbours, we must be proactive. Grandmothers. As a grandmother of Shiva Kristiano We must not restrict ourselves to mere words, to ‘standing Bissessar and KavitaSofie Bissessar I am experiencing the and staring at the water’, but instead we must take the initiative wonder and love of my grandchildren as I acknowledge to reach out across the sea to one another to create a stronger, their love. A very special kind of love. more tight-knit and supportive international community. May God continue to bless each of you. Trinidad and Tobago Partnering with India May God continue to bless both our nations. As our own population with its unique cosmopolitan cul - May God continue to bless the nations from which the ture continues to grow and make its mark in different countries Diaspora have gathered. across the World, my Government looks to the example of the May we pledge to work for the mutual benefit of the Government of India so that we too may remain closely inter - people of our own countries and the world.

16 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE PHOTOGRAPHIC COVERAGE OF PRIME MINISTER’S VISIT

DEFINING MOMENTS

Prime Minister being received by the Prime Minister being received by Indian Foreign Minister Vice President of India

The two Prime Ministers at the signing of MOUs Prime Minister as chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas between both nations

Prime Minister, Minister Cadiz and High Commissioner at the Prime Minister at the Trinidad and Tobago Trade and Trinidad and Tobago Trade and Investment forum in Investment forum hosted by FICCI in Kolkata

Prime Minister’s speech at Shankara College, Rajasthan Prime Minister meeting Lord Rana of the British House of Lord

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 17 PHOTOGRAPHIC COVERAGE OF PRIME MINISTER’S VISIT

“The visit of the Honourable Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to the Republic of India in January this year was not only unique in terms of the unprecedented media coverage it received but equally impacting in terms of Trade, Investment and Tourism opportunities identify. The love and devotion with which the Honourable Prime Minister was received wherever she travelled on this tour, together with the kindness, generosity and outstanding arrangements extended by the Government of India were indeed touching. In this photo she expressed her heartfelt thanks to all concerned.”

18 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE INVESTMENT IN CLEAN TECHNOLOGY

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 19 MEDIA COVERAGE OF PM’S VISIT BRILLIANT ME

Air India’s Monthly Magazine — Namaskar A Maxposure Media Group Publication January 2012, Volume 33, Issue No. 1. Published a 4-page article on the official visit. Circulation: 100,000

The Economic Times January 5, 2012 Published a 4-page article on the visit Circulation: 800,000

Times of India, Jaipur Bennet Coleman Group January 10, 2012 Article highlighting Prime Minister’s visit as chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, 2012 Circulation: 7.4 milion Antar Rashtriya Sahayog Parishad Bulletin

20 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE DIA COVERAGE

Volume 24, Number 12 December 2011 Published a 2-column report Circulation: 200,000

Assocham Bulletin Volume 37, Issue Number 2 February 2012 Published a 2 page article on Strengthen - ing Economic Cooperation between Trinidad and Tobago in India. Circulation: 9,000

HT City January 8, 2012 Page 3 feature on visit, highlighting the fashion exchange programme agreement between Mr Sunil Sethi and Prime Minis - ter as well as the cultural event at The Lalit organized by High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Circulation: 1.4 million

The Hindu January 11, 2012 Featured an article titled “New tie-up with Trinidad and Tobago” Circulation: 2.1 million

Times of India Kolkata January 12, 2012 Covered Prime Minister’s visit to the Gar - den Reach Memorial Circulation: 7.4 million

Asian Age January 7, 2012 Did a curtain-raiser on PBD 2012 Circulation: 1.5 millio n

Asian Age January 12, 2012 Covered Prime Minister’s visit to Bhelpur, Bihar Circulation: 1.5 million

The Telegraph January 12, 2012 Printed two articles, including on cricketer relating to cricket and another on Prime Minister’s visit to Kolkata Circulation: 634,000

Times of India January 10, 2012 Article and interview with Prime Minister Circulation: 7.1 million

Times City January 10, 2012 Covered PBD Circulation: 7.1 million

Hindustan Times January 10, 2012 Covered success of PBD Jaipur with Prime Minister as chief guest Circulation: 3.5 million

—As collected from multiple industry sources

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 21 CRICKET REFLECTIONS

50 Years of Cricket Diplomacy “Bollywood movies have served as building blocks in helping strengthen the rela3onship between the people of Trinidad and Tobago and India. However, it was cricket that served to cement that rela3onship...” — H.E. Chandradath Singh A Glorious Half Century Connecting India and Trinidad and Tobago through cricket By Ravi Chaturvedi

rinidad and Tobago was perceived as a cricketing country by India. Consequently the Government of India appointed Mr. Munni Lal as its first High Commissioner to this twin Caribbean na - tion in early 1960s. Since then the two countries have been aTble to forge bonds in the field of business, culture, educa - tion and science and technology over the years. But cricket still remains the biggest bond between the two countries. As a cricket commentator-cum-chronicler, I will confine myself only to cricket. My first visit to the Caribbean as a cricket commentator in 1976 left indelible mark on my mind and memory. Con - sequently when I returned home, I wrote, ‘Cricket in the Caribbean is not a game but a passion, nay a religion. It is a The author with the legendary Sir at Eden Gardens in 1987 boisterous performance of the up surging emotions, aspira - tions and hopes of the people oppressed for long, who neous national expression. Only in the West Indies, has found escape from their “suffering” in cricket, calypso and cricket metamorphosed as a game of the people, played in rum. Transcending all mundane barriers of nationality, reli - a style and spirit of cavalier-like abandon, youthful exuber - gion, culture and creed, cricket in West Indies is a sponta - ance and Elysian adventure. The game in this part of the

FIRST EVER INDIAN CRICKET TEAM TO WEST INDIES (1952-53)

Seated (left to right) GS Ramchand, DG Phadkar, C Ramaswami (Manager), VS Hazare (Captain), VM Mankad (Vice-Captain), PR Umrigar, VL Manjrekar. Standing middle row (left -to right) P Roy, ML Apte, DK Gaekwad, PG Joshi, CV Gadkari, ES Maka, SP Gupte. Standing top row (left to right) DH Shodhan, N Kannayiram, JM Ghorpade

22 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE FIRST EVER WEST INDIES CRICKET TEAM TO INDIA (1948-49)

Standing (left to right) FJ Cameron, W Ferguson, K. Rickards, C McWatt, PE Jones, CL Walcott, D Atkinson, AF Rae, J Trim, ED Weekes Seated (left to right) RJ Christiani, GE Gomez, JD Goddard (Captain), Mr. DP Lacy (Manager), G Headley, JB Stollmeyer (Vice-Captain), G Carew world, as nowhere else, represents the natural gaiety of the Hemu Adhikari and useful half centuries by KC Ibrahim, islanders, the rhythm of calypso and the punch of rum.’ Rusi Modi, and the ebullient skipper Lala Amarnath. The Watching cricket in Trinidad is a memorable experience. visitors won the fourth Test and escaped defeat in the last The spectators clad in their coloured clothes of bright hue but their cricket left a lasting impression in the minds and with headgear of different shades provide a unique setting hearts of the spectators. to the Queen’s Park Oval, the cricket venue in the country. Five years later, the visit of the first Indian team to A regular feature at the Oval in Trinidad is a character by West Indies evoked immense interest among the local name ‘Blue Food’ for over three decades. At the fall of cricket followers, particularly the Indian community. India every or a boundary hit he will blow his conch-shell. lost the Barbados Test while chasing a modest 273 to be In recent years a multi-coloured attired band ‘Trini Possi’ routed by Ramadhin’s spin, leaving home team victorious starts with its artists playing on trumpets and drums at the by 143 runs. An ironic remark by the author on the deba - fall of a wicket or a boundary hit. These characters are in cle, ’Coming from a land where the ‘spinning wheel their own way interesting, enduring, exciting and endearing. (charkha of Mahatmna Gandhi) cut the mighty British They regale players and public by their antics. Empire to size, the “spinning fingers” could not cut the Out of 21 cricket books of the author, the first one was Caribbean batsman to size.’ on West Indies India in 1979. ‘But the rest of the series was well contested. In fact, Since then I have visited my adopted country thrice — famous commentator Ernest Etyle complimented the In - twice as a member of cultural delegations to Guyana in dian fielding. ‘ The Indian team won the hearts of one and 1988 and Trinidad in 1995 for the 150th anniversary of In - all with their spirited fielding. Gadkari, Gaekwad and Um - dian arrival celebrations, and as a commentator again in rigar were outstanding. I have never seen any fielding in any 2002. My personal experiences are worth recounting on an part of the world equal to theirs.’ occasion to celebrate the 50 years of diplomatic relations As a child I watched with admiration on between Trinidad and Tobago and India. To go back in time, tour to India with the Commonwealth teams in 1950s. His when I was not even a teenager, I watched the first West In - batting had majesty of an Emperor and the modesty of a dies team play India at Kotla on November 10, 1948. Since saint. Another member of the team was the mystery spinner then the Calypsonian cricketers have always captivated me. from Trinidad Sonny Ramadhin who had mesmerized the The start was ominous for the visitors, losing three quick English batsmen only few months earlier with his spin twin for 27, including great ‘known as Alf Valentine to ensure the first Windies win on the English ‘Black Bradman’, bowled by pacer CR Rangachari for 2, soil in 1950. It was a historical triumph prompting the Calyp - shattering the stump in two pieces. The broken stump is a sonian Lord Relator to compose a calypso, ‘Yardley tried his memorabilia preserved in the local cricket associations’ cup - best, Goddard won the Test: With those little pals of mine board. Besides CL Walcott, RD Weekes and RJ Christiani’s Ramadhin and Valentine.’ centuries, a Trinidadian all-rounder (later a commentator —The author is a retired Professor of Zoology at Delhi Univer - friend of author) Gerry Gomez also joined the centurion sity. He was decorated with the Padma Shri award by the Indian Gov - party and rescued the shaky Caribbean ship to pile up a ernment for his contribution to establishing, evolving and providing mammoth 631. India played to a draw through century by credibility to Hindi cricket commentary.

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 23 MISSION CRICKET AND WEST INDIES TEAM IN INDIA Cricket Section

The cricket team of the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission had a robust day out in the field against the Indian Ministry of External Affairs WI Team at HC’s Official Residence

The West Indies cricket team led by Saint Lucia’s Darren Sammy meets up at the residence of High Commissioner Chandradath Singh. The enthusiasm of youth rubbed off, and soon Big Benn (above left) was grabbing the mike to take charge of the evening

24 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE FAMOUS TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CRICKETERS The Legends of TnT Cricket

Brian Lara

Darren Ganga Kieron Pollard

Dwyane Bravo Sunil Narine Larry Gomes

Deryck Murray Alf Valen*ne Sonny Ramadhin David Murray

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 25 TRIBUTE TO CRICKETER SUNIL GAVASKAR AN ODE TO SUNNY

This intricately rhymed composition is the greatest cricket calypso ever written, and one of Relator's most beloved songs. Even in India! It recounts a famous 1971 cricket match in which the Indian team, led by its outstand - ing batsman, Sunil Gavaskar, roundly defeated the West In - dies. It spotlights Relator's flawless phrasing as he dances through the long lists of complicated Indian names. Rhyming the names of all these Indian cricketers is no sky - lark, as they say in Trinidad, but Relator makes it seem ef - fortless. "Writing it was easy!" he laughs. "I'm a cricket fan, and I was there. I saw everything, so putting the words to - gether came like second nature. I almost extempoed [im - provised] that entire calypso. What I had to write was the names of the cricketers, and rhyme it so I wouldn't have to memorize it. But it was automatic." Automatic or not, this is one of the most spectacular lyrics in all calypso.

A lovely day for cricket Blue skies and gentle breeze The Indians are awaiting now To play the West Indies A signal from the The match is going to start The cricketers come on the field They all look very smart ...

Erapalli Prasanna Noriega nine for ninety-five Jeejeebhoy and Wadekar The Indian team they still survive Krishnamurthy and Vishnoo Mankad Them boys could real play cricket Govindraj and Durani On any kinda wicket Solkar, Abid Ali They make the West Indies team look so bad Dilip Sardesai and Viswanath We was in all kinda trouble They make West Indies bowlers Joey Carew pull a muscle Look like second raters get 'bout three run out When those fellas came out here to bat We was in trouble without a doubt West Indies tried Holder and Keith Boyce They had no other choice It was Gavaskar They even try with Uton Dowe De real master But ah sure that they sorry they bring him now Just like a wall We couldn't out Gavaskar at all, not at all Little Desmond Lewis You know the West Indies couldn't out Gavaskar at all Also Charlie Davis Ven-kat-a-ra-ghavan Dey take a little shame from out we face Bedi, in a turban But Sobers as the captain Vijay Jaisimha, Jayantilal He want plenty coachin' They help to win the series Before we cricket end up in a disgrace Against the West Indies Bedi hear that he became a father At Sabina Park and Queen's Park Oval So he catch out Holford in the covers A hundred and fifty-eight by Kanhai But when Sobers hear he too had a son Really sent our hopes up high He make duck and went back in the pavilion

26 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE INVESTMENT IN ICT

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 27 50 YEARS OF HINDI MOVIES

ENTHRALLING HINDI “Indian movies provided one of the major linkages between Trinidad and Tobago and India over the past 50 years. As far as the people of Trinidad and Tobago are concerned, it was the Hindi Movie, more than anything else, that kept alive memories of India and introduced elements of Indian lifestyle, especially in the early days when travel to India was li+le or nonexistent. Indian music, songs and dances from the movies have greatly influenced the East Indian contribu*on to the dy - namic and vibrant mul*cultural Trinidad and Tobago...” —H.E. Chandradath Singh

Mother India 1957 Mughal E Azam 1960 Sholay 1975 Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge 1995

Deewaar 1975 Mera Saaya 1966 Aradhana 1969 Love Story 1981

Jab Jab Phool Khile 1965 Amar Akbar Anthony 1977 Maine Pyar Kiya 1989 Taare Zameen Par 2007

G Sholay 1975 G Basant 1942 G Chak De India 2007 G Mother India 1957 G Kuch Kuch Hota Hai 1998 G Aradhana 1969 G Mughal E Azam 1960 G Amar Akbar Anthony 1977 G Ram Teri Ganga Maili 1985 G Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge 1995 G Love Story 1981 G Aankhen 1968 G Om Shanti Om 2007 G Upkar 1967 G Taare Zameen Par 2007 G Bobby 1973 G Johny Mera Naam 1970 G Awaara 1951 G Kranti 1981 G Maine Pyar Kiya 1989 G Trishul 1978 G Muqaddar Ka Sikandar 1978 G Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham 2001 G Mera Saaya 1966

28 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE MOVIES OVER 50 YEARS

Barsaat 1949 Johny Mera Naam 1970 Awaara 1951 Laila Majnu 1976

Do Raaste 1969 Prem Rog 1982 Kuch Kuch Hota Hai 1998 Karan Arjun 1995

Ram Aur Shyam 1967 Pakeezah 1972 Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham 2001 Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai 2000

Haathi Mera Saathi 1971 Madhumati 1958 Chak De India 2007 Devdas 2002

G Do Raaste 1969 G Pakeezah 1972 G Zanjeer 1973 G Deewaar 1975 G Rang De Basanti 2006 G Jab Jab Phool Khile 1965 G Haathi Mera Saathi 1971 G Laawaris 1981 G Madhumati 1958 G Barsaat 1949 G Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai 2000 G Jai Santoshi Maa 1975 G Seeta aur Geeta 1972 G Devdas 2002 G Mere Mehboob 1963 G Laila Majnu 1976 G Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna 2006 G Ganga Jamuna 1961 G Karan Arjun 1995 G Prem Rog 1982 G Sangam 1964 G Mera Gaon Mera Desh 1971 G Veer Zaara 2004 G Ram Aur Shyam 1967 G Mera Saaya 1966

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 29 THE OLYMPIC DREAM

Making Trinidad and Tobago proud at the 2012 London Olympics By Haseeb Mohammed, Second Secretary, TT High Commission, New Delhi

Keshorn Walcott

rinidad and Tobago has invested heavily in sports, Young in 1952 and only the second Non-European in 100 so much so that the country may well be at the years of the Olympic Games. Walcott was well rewarded back upper side globally in overall expenditure and on home for his outstanding achievement including the gift of 2 a per capita basis. There is the Elite Athletes As - plots of land 10,000 sq. feet, a lighthouse was named in his sistance Programme (EAAP), which caters for world-ranked honour as well as a Caribbean Airlines aircraft. Just by way of aTthletes who attain certain standards in disciplines recognised perspective, the Javelin world record is set 98.48 meters by by the International Olympics Committee (IOC). The sums triple Olympic champion Jan Zelezny of the Czech Republic. distributed range from $ 75,000 a year to $ 250,000. There is And AnttiRuuskanen of Finland, who was third on Saturday, also State funding for sportsmen and women in cricket and a has a personal best of 87.33 meters. So young Walcott was few other sports. Government also assists sporting organisa - right there with the best. tions with annual grants and special funding for participation Trinidad and Tobago’s athletes have made us extremely at regional and international events. proud, all confirming that they can hold their own in the in - This investment in sports reaped its awards most notably ternational arena. through Keshorn Walcott who won a Gold medal for The country shouted and supportedKeshorn Walcott, Trinidad and Tobago, the first in 36 years. To conquer the Lalonde Gordon, George Bovell, Kelly-Ann Baptiste, world so young was eye-catching. Walcott was a rank outsider Richard Thompson, Jehue Gordon and Njisane Phillip as in a discipline in which the Caribbean region, not to mention they fought their way through the heats and semi-finals to get Trinidad and Tobago, has no history of success. He was the their respective individual finals, where they took their place first non- European to win the Javelin since American Cy against the best in the business.

30 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE The 4 x 400 m bronze medal winning quartet comprising (from left) Lalonde Gordon, Jarrin Solomon, Ade Alleyne-Forte, and Deon Lendore at London 2012

The 4 x 100 m bronze medal winning quarter comprising , , and Richard Thompson at London 2012

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 31 THE OLYMPIC DREAM

ATHLETIC MILESTONES NAME YEAR OF GAMES DISCIPLINE CATEGORY MEDAL

Rodney Wilkes 1948 London Weightli$ing Men's Silver Featherweight Rodney Wilkes 1952 Helsinki Lennox Kilgour 1952 Helsinki Weightli$ing Men's 90 kg class Bronze Wendell Mo4ley 1964 Tokyo Athle3cs Men's 400 m Silver Edwin Roberts 1964 Tokyo Men's 200 m Bronze Wendell Mo4ley 1964 Men's 4 x 100 m Bronze Kent Bernard Edwin Roberts Edwin Skinner Hasely Crawford 1976 Montreal Athle3cs Men's 100 m Gold Ato Boldon 1996 Atlanta Bronze Ato Boldon Men's 200 m Bronze Ato Boldon 2000 Sydney Men's 100 m Silver Ato Boldon Men's 200 m Bronze George Bovell 2004 Athens Swimming Men's 200m Bronze Individual Medley Richard Thompson 2008 Beijing Athle3cs Men's 100 m Silver Keston Bledman Men's 4 x 100 m Silver Marc Burns Emmanuel Callender Richard Thompson Aaron Armstrong * Lalonde Gordon 2012 London Men's 400 m Bronze Lalonde Gordon Men's 4 x 400 m Bronze Jarrin Solomon * Par3cipa3on Renny Quow only in round 1 Deon Lendore Machel Ceodenio * Ade Aleyne-Forte Marc Burns Men's 4 x 100 m Bronze Keston Bledman Emmanuel Callender Richard Thompson Keshorn Walco4 Men's Javelin Throw Gold

32 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE Hasely Crawford Wendell Mottley Ato Boldon

Lalonde Gordon with the bronze medal he won in the Men’s 400 m

Gold Silver Bronze Sub Total Athle3cs 24 8 14 Weightli$ing 01 2 3 Swimming 00 1 1 Grand Total 25 11 18

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 33 INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY

INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY Thi s is our s ong Composed by Chandradath Singh In Commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of ‘Indian Arrival Day’ Trinidad and Tobago, 1985 Chorus: Always one people, one destiny! This is our song! On the journey we have come; Verse: In this land, in this gem beauty abounds; We have struggled and struggled and struggled all along! Races mingle, colors dazzle, people smile so warm! The mighty Trinity, symbol of our strength, This is our song - on the journey just begun; Luscious fields embrace the blue; We shall move on and move on until we overcome! The way we greet our friends!

This is our song ‘bout a nation proud and strong Oh Allah ho Akbar! Let this beauty inspire us As we put our hearts together, uniting everyone! So that we may in turn inspire the whole wide world!

Verse: Verse: Look at our women, heads covered with pride, One hundred and fifty years of great legends told; Symbols of humility but firm in stride! Touching, moving, inspiring: black, white, young and old! See our men tilling the land, Pioneers and heroes deserving of praise; Sacrificing, sustaining, leaving footprints behind! Sacrificing, harmonizing, blazing trails!

Oh Parameshwar! Keep us together - Oh holy father Jesus! We salute our forefathers And our land, as we move forward in thy spirit!

Indian Arrival Day at ARSP Pravasi Bhavan, 2012

H.E. delivering a speech at the ARSP function

A cake with the Trinidad and Tobago national flag imprinted in High Commissioner and Mrs. Singh with Dr. R.K Khandall and celebration of Indian Arrival Day 2012 senior research scientists at the Shri Ram Institute

34 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY

Indian Arrival Day at the High Commissioner's residence, 2011

High Commissioner and Mrs. Singh with Dr. Suresh Goel, HC with Dr. Didar Singh of Ministry of Director General, ICCR, and Mrs. Goel Overseas Indian Affairs

Audience enjoying Indian Arrival Day 2011 show Famous Bhojpuri singer Niharika Naidu, singing at at the High Commissioner's residence the reception at the High Commissioner's residence

Drum Talk—Trinidad and Tobago's tassa—and Quincy Charles, Trinidad and Tobago’s versatile a Bhangra drummer Kathak exponent, performs

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 35 EMANCIPATION DAY

EMANCIPATION DAY Ganges meets the Nile Composition by famous TT Calypsonian David Rudder

Once upon a 3me there was a magic island Don't mind them politcky Full of magic people. poli3cky poli3cky poli3cky poli3cians. Let me tell you a story And with their politricky politricky politricky 'Bout their pain and their glory, oh yeah. politricky situa3ons. We done jamming and we jamming Many rivers flowed to this naked isle and we jamming and jam cus Bringing fear and pain we know the story. But also a brand new style. Let them fight if they want in this land And of all these rivers that shaped this land of a different glory. (i might have this line wrong) Two mighty ones move like a sculptors hand. So put up your hand if you understand now And today those hands, across the land, man, Come. they're s3ll landscaping. And there's no doubt we go work it out, See how we moving, watch how we grooving there is no escaping. See how we step in style. As the river flows there are those One lovely na3on, under a groove who would change its passage. The Ganges come meet the Nile. But every common man got to Them boys with the hidden agendas, and the under-stand up and send a message. mind-benders, They will always do their do. So put up your hand if you understand now. Various smart men, and poli3cians, dem could Come. come along too.

See how we moving, watch how we grooving Cus we moving with the power, and the glory. See how we step in style. See how we float in style. One lovely na3on, under a groove See how we moving, watch how we grooving. The Ganges come meet the Nile. The Ganges has met the Nile Them boys with the hidden agendas, and the mind-benders, People done take in front. See how we moving, watch how we grooving Various smart men, and poli3cians can come See how we float in style. along if they want. One lovely na3on, under a groove The Ganges come meet the Nile. Cus the people got the power, and the glory. Them boys with the hidden agendas, and the See how we float in style. mind-benders, They will always do their do. See how we moving, watch how we grooving. But now that we holding hands, trudging to the The Ganges has met the Nile Promised Land Them could come along too.

Differences, there will always be. Cus we moving with the power, and the glory. So let you be you, and I'll be me. See how we float in style. That's the damn 3ng self that makes it sweet. One lovely na3on, heading to salva3on. Brother bring your drum, lewwe start to beat. The Ganges come meet the Nile.

36 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE EMANCIPATION DAY

Students of Delhi's Springdale School presented two Trinidad and Tobago folk drum in fusion expert renditions of Miriam Makeba songs with the tabla

The melody of steelpan music is always welcome H.E. the Ambassador of South Africa and his wife demonsrate the art of dancing to Makeba pata pata

H.C with High Commissioner of Rwanda H.C speaking with Mr. Rahul Pathania, Angostura’s Chandigarh representative

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 37 NATIONAL DAY 2011

National Day Celebrations Ushers dressed as Calypso dancers along with Bhangra artistes regaled a large audience that attended Trinidad and Tobago’s National Day celebrations at The Taj Palace in New Delhi on August 31, 2011. This is the day when the nation commemorates its independence from British rule in 1962. It was 49 years ago, on the very first independence day, that the Union Jack (British Flag) had been lowered and the Trinidad and Tobago Flag had been raised. On this day, military style parades are held at the Queens Park Savannah, Port of Spain (the country’s capital) and in Scarborough, Tobago. The evening is usually marked by the presen - tation of National Awards at the President’s House honoring select citizens of Trinidad and Tobago for their outstanding achievements in various fields. A fireworks display at the capital signals the end of the celebration

38 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE TOP : H.E. Chandradath Singh and Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Mr Vayalar Ravi get together for a meeting. MIDDLE: H.E. Singh joins Minister Ravi and former minister Jagdish Tytler at the table. They enjoy some vigorous Bhangra dance. BOTTOM : Mrs Singh was a grand hostess and emcee for the evening, and articulated the nuances of Caribbean and Indian dance and music in style. Madhushree, a famous Bollywood singer, performed specially on the occasion

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 39 INVESTMENT IN LIGHT MANUFACTURING

40 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE TRADE AND INVESTMENT

“Small in size. Big in potential. Ready to go! That’s Trinidad and Tobago!!...” There is a tremendous upsurge in trade and in - vestment ac3vi3es from India to Trinidad and To - bago. TATA CONSUL - TANCY, ESSAR, SAHARA, RELIANCE, TATA MOTORS and GAIL are among those that have demon - strated strong interest in doing business with us, while others like DESUN Hospital, A2Z Solid Waste Ltd., NARULA Con - tainer Manufacturers, Gravitas Ba4ery Recy - cling company, SKANDA, Aqua Culture, IT and Housing Divisions are in advance stages of nego3 - a3ons and are soon to begin opera3ons in T&T.

The Hon Kamla Persad-Bissessar, PM, greeted by Mr. Rajneesh Mehra, High Commissioner congratulating Mr. Sajal Dutta on the CEO of one of India's largest Solid Waste Management firms unveiling of Desun's 50-acre Health Tourism Project for T&T

The Honourable Chandresh Sharma, Minister, Visit by the High Commissioner Chandradath Singh to Mr. Punardeep Sawhney, H.E. Chandradath Singh, Western Marine Shipyard in Bangladesh and Mr. Neeraj Narula on the visit to T&T by the Narula Group 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 41 BILATERAL VISITS Parliamentary Delegation Visit of the TT Parliamentary delegation to India in 2012

H.E. Chandradath Singh greeting Senator the Honourable H.E. Chandradath Singh meeting Leader of the Timothy Hamel-Smith President of the Senate Opposition Honourable Dr. Keith Rowley, MP

Honourable Wade Mark, Speaker of the House and members of his delegation with Mr. Ram Vilas Paswan, Member, Rajya Sabha (India ) who’s also chairman of the India - Trinidad & Tobago Friendship Committee in Parliament

Senator Helen Drayton meeting Mr. Ram Vilas Paswan, Senator Helen Drayton with Mrs. Anita Chandradath Singh Member of Rajya Sabha

42 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE INVESTMENT IN TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS (MERCHANT MARINE)

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 43 PROMOTING TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Promotions by High Commissioner

HC being felicitated as Chief Guest at a Bhojpuri Holi Sammelan in U.P.

HC receiving memento from Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, President of HC meets with Indian National Congress MP Rahul Gandhi Symbiosis & Chancellor of Symbiosis International University.

44 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE GROWING PARTNERSHIPS

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE | TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 45 ECO TOURISM

Trinidad and Tobago: Nature’s Paradise Flora Trinidad: The natural vegetation of Trinidad is remarkable for its diversity: 2300 flowering , including 700 orchids; native and exotic species; 300 species of ferns and their allies; 370 species of , including the native purpleheart, mora and crappo. Savannahs, frequently flooded in the rainy season and parched in the dry season, produce remarkable is - lands of vegetation with adaptable endemic forms. Evergreen seasonal forests, common in such areas as Matura and the Cen - tral Range and characterized by high rainfall, give rise to trees such as blackheart, guatacare and bois mulatre, trees which fail - ure to shed leaves seasonally gives shade to rare exotic plants.

Tobago: In Tobago, a mixture of sunshine, rain, humidity National Flower and early morning dew produces a lush, island-wide garden of The national flower, the Chaconia, ( Coccinea thriving flora. Various ecosystems support a persistent variety (Vahl) Kl.), called "Wild Poinsettia" or "Pride of Trinidad and of species. They include tropical rain forest, lower moun - Tobago" is a flaming red forest flower of the family Ru - tain rain forest, swamp communities, mangroves, seasonal ever - bianceae. The title is in honour of the last Spanish Governor green forest, deciduous seasonal forest, rocky coastlines, and of Trinidad and Tobago Don Jose Maria Chacon. This flower, even overhanging phone cables. Tobago’s (geologically recent) which is known by its long sprays of magnificent vermillion, separation from the South American continent means that To - will be in bloom on every anniversary of our Independence. As bago has fewer endemic species than islands further north, and an indigenous flower it has been witness to our entire history. the flora is similar to that found on the continental mainland. It can therefore be said to represent the imperishability of life and the continuity of our Nation. With its colour matching the Fauna flaming red of our Flag and Coat of Arms and bearing the Trinidad: Home of almost 400 bird species (more than same symbolism, the Chaconia harmonizes with the other na - any other Caribbean island), including purple honeycreepers, tional Emblems. tufted coquettes and blue-and-yellow macaws. There are 620 butterfly species, 108 recorded mammal species (57 of them bats), 70 different reptiles (including mapipire, iguanas and skinks), and 30 amphibian species including the endemic golden tree frog. Insect groups, including beetles, grasshoppers and caterpillars, are too numerous for accurate records, and it is safe to say that all insect orders are represented, including some undocumented species. A few animal species have been introduced by humans, like the mongoose and much of our livestock. Mammals include agouti, anteater, armadillo, capuchin monkey, deer, howler monkey, tree porcupine, manatee, man - National Birds icou (opossum), ocelot, quenk (peccary or wild pig), squirrel. The National Birds, which are represented on the Coat of Reptillian life includes anaconda, cayman, iguana, and Arms of Trinidad and Tobago, are the Scarlet Ibis, which rep - leatherback turtles. resents Trinidad, and the Cocrico, which represents Tobago. The Scarlet Ibis (Tantalus Ruber): The Scarlet Ibis Tobago: A high percentage of Tobago’s original fauna (Tantalus Ruber) is to be found in the Caroni Swamp, Central was lost during colonial times, but there is still much to see, in - Trinidad. This beautiful bird is brown when young and its cluding 12 species of mammals, five species of marine turtles colour changes to red when it is mature. (including the endangered giant leatherback), 16 species of lizard, 14 species of frog, 17 species of bats, 133 species of The Cocrico (Rufus Tailed Guan): The Cocrico (Rufus butterflies including the impressive Blue Emperor, and 25 Tailed Guan) is a native of Tobago and Venezuela but is not species of snake (none of them poisonous). And with 210 found in Trinidad. It is the only game bird on the island and is recorded bird species, sanctuaries like the island of Little To - referred to as the Tobago Pheasant. It is about the size of a bago off the northeast coast, a large migratory seabird popu - common fowl, brownish in colour with a long tail. They go lation and a variety of colorful human-friendly species like the about in flocks of about six (6) and their quaint calls can be bananaquit, blue tanager and mot-mot, Tobago is a favorite heard especially on early morning and late evenings. Both birds of ornithologists. are protected by law. The plant and animal life of Trinidad, like the geology of the island, resembles that of neighboring Venezuela. Tobago,

46 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE by contrast, shows in its flora and fauna its connection with the volcanic Lesser Antillean arc. There are distinct altitudinal variations in indigenous plant life on both islands. The natural vegetation includes wild flowers, many flowering shrubs and trees, palms, giant aroids, and large broad-leaved varieties. Nat - ural animal life includes a few species of mammals, monkeys among them, and many reptiles and birds.

Attractions in Trinidad and Tobago

Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust, Trinidad Category: Nature/ Wildlife Areas Refuge containing two lakes, nature trails and a wide variety of different birds.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary, Caroni Argyle Waterfall, Scarborough Category: Nature/ Wildlife Areas Category: Waterfalls The Caroni Bird Sanctuary is an official wildlife reserve in Trinidad and Tobago and is part of what is more commonly Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve, Tobago called the Caroni Swamp. The swamp is a relatively large wet - Category: Nature/ Wildlife Areas land in the west of the island of Trinidad, roughly between Port of Spain and Chaguanas. Nariva Swamp, Trinidad Just south of Port of Spain between the Uriah Butler ex - Category: Nature / Wildlife Areas pressway and the sea lies the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, a series Several different species of birds inhabit this swamp, one of Mangrove lined waterways and tidal lagoon, the nesting of the largest wetlands in the Caribbean. location of the stunning Scarlet Ibis, national bird of Trinidad and Tobago. Royal Botanical Gardens, Port of Spain Category: Gardens Asa Wright Nature Centre, Trinidad Category: Nature/ Wildlife Areas Genesis Nature Park, Tobago This small resort, buried among mountains deep in the Category: Art Galleries; Nature/ Wildlife Areas Trinidad rain forest, is famous for its amazing diversity in ani - mal and plant species. The Asa Wright Nature Centre and Maracas Falls, Port of Spain Lodge is a nature resort and scientific research station in the Category: National Parks Arima Valley of the Northern Range in Trinidad and Tobago. The Centre is one of the top birdwatching spots in the Paria Falls, Trinidad Caribbean; a total of 159 species of birds have been recorded Category: Waterfalls there. The Centre is owned by a non-profit trust. One of the island's more stunning waterfalls.

Tobago Forest Reserve, Tobago Arnos Vale Waterwheel and Nature Park, Tobago Category: Forests; Nature/ Wildlife Areas Category: Nature/ Wildlife Areas Established in 1763 to combat European deforestation of A park established on the grounds of an old sugar planta - the island, this was the Western Hemisphere's first forest reserve. tion to preserve Tobago's wildlife.

La Brea Pitch Lake, Trinidad Piparo Mud Volcano, Trinidad Category: Bodies of Water; Geologic Formations Category: Geologic Formations This 100-acre lake releases asphalt from the depths below Situated in the central range of Trinidad, Piparo, like most and is the largest natural asphalt lake in the world. other rural villages in Trinidad, is populated with very warm welcoming people. there are lots of sites to be seen... more » Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain Category: Parks Devil's Woodyard, Trinidad This park features mansions from the Spanish colonial era, Category: Geologic Formations interesting stores and street vendors. One of Trinidad's most well-known mud volcanoes, Devil's Woodyard erupts infrequently but dramatically. Argyle Falls, Northeast Coast Category: Waterfalls Lalaja Falls, Trinidad This 600-foot waterfall, set against the background of an Category: Waterfalls old cocoa plantation, is a dramatic sight. A small waterfall located on Trinidad's northeastern coast.

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