A ceremonial event dedicated to the 77th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) was held in Ashgabat. The celebration was organized by the Embassy of India in Turkmenistan.

The ICCR is an autonomous organization under India’s Ministry of External Affairs, established in 1950 to promote international understanding. The Council manages dozens of cultural centers around the world, promoting Indian art through exhibitions, festivals, and concerts. One of its key initiatives is the provision of educational scholarships for foreign citizens.

Opening the event, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to Turkmenistan, Bandaru Wilsonbabu, emphasized the importance of educational programs.

“Each year, the ICCR provides around 4,000 scholarships to foreign students. It is gratifying to note that more than 200 citizens of Turkmenistan have already received higher education in India through this program. Taking this opportunity, I invite Turkmen youth to apply for ICCR scholarships for the upcoming academic year.”

The diplomat also highlighted the depth of bilateral relations, rooted in strong ties. India and Turkmenistan share long-standing traditions of friendship.

“The popularity of yoga, Ayurveda, the Hindi language, and Indian cinema is growing in the country. A Hindi corner and an Ayurveda room have been opened in Ashgabat, and professional classes are held daily at the Center for Yoga and Traditional Medicine for all interested participants,” the Ambassador noted.

In conclusion, Mr. Bandaru Wilsonbabu emphasized the ancient Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (“The whole world is one family”). The head of the diplomatic mission reaffirmed India’s readiness to share its development experience in line with Turkmenistan’s priorities and expressed confidence that graduates of Indian universities would become a “living bridge” for further strengthening partnership between the two countries.