First Hindi Radio Broadcast Launched in Kuwait: Strengthening Cultural Ties with India
Introduction
Kuwait has recently launched its first Hindi radio broadcast, marking a significant step in strengthening cultural ties with India. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait announced on 22 April 2024 that a new Hindi program has begun airing on Kuwait Radio. This initiative reflects the growing bond between Kuwait and its large Indian expatriate community, which is the largest in the country.
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| Hindi radio broadcast started for the first time in Kuwait |
Details of the Hindi Radio Broadcast
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait highlighted that the Hindi program is broadcast on FM 93.3 and AM 96.3 every Sunday. This weekly show aims to cater to the interests and preferences of the approximately 1 million Indian expatriates residing in Kuwait. The embassy expressed its appreciation to the Ministry of Information of Kuwait for facilitating this program, emphasizing that it would further enhance the relationship between the two nations.
Indian Expatriates in Kuwait
The Indian community in Kuwait consists of professionals from various fields, including engineers, doctors, chartered accountants, scientists, software experts, management consultants, architects, technicians, nurses, retailers, and businessmen. This diverse group plays a crucial role in Kuwait's economy and society, making the Hindi radio broadcast a welcome addition for the Indian diaspora.
Historical Ties Between India and Kuwait
India has historically been a natural trading partner for Kuwait. Before 1961, the Indian rupee was the legal tender in Kuwait, illustrating the longstanding economic connections between the two countries. The year 2021-22 marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Kuwait, highlighting the enduring ties that continue to grow stronger.
Expatriate-Friendly Measures in Kuwait
On 17 April, the Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Adarsh Swaika, met with the Deputy Prime Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah. During this meeting, Ambassador Swaika expressed his appreciation for the expatriate-friendly measures initiated during Sheikh Fahd's tenure. He also commended the positive developments within the Indian community in Kuwait.
Significance of the Hindi Radio Broadcast
The launch of the Hindi radio broadcast in Kuwait is a significant development for the Indian expatriate community. It provides them with a platform to connect with their cultural roots while residing in a foreign country. The program is expected to include a mix of entertainment, news, music, and discussions that resonate with the Indian diaspora.
This initiative also underscores Kuwait's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for its expatriate communities. It reflects a broader effort to acknowledge and celebrate the cultural contributions of the Indian community to Kuwait's social fabric.
Conclusion
The first Hindi radio broadcast in Kuwait is a meaningful step towards deepening the cultural ties between India and Kuwait. It offers a platform for the Indian expatriate community to stay connected to their heritage while contributing to Kuwait's multicultural landscape. This initiative is a testament to the positive relationship between the two countries and the shared commitment to promoting cultural understanding and unity.
