- Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a direct Air India flight from Colombo to Varanasi
- PM Modi also announced plans to build 10,000 additional homes in Sri Lanka for Indian-origin Tamilians
- This is the first time that Sri Lanka commemorated International Vesak Day
- The PM inaugurated an India-funded 150-bed multi-speciality hospital at Dickoya
- This is PM Modi’s second visit to Sri Lanka in two years
I Have a Special Association With Tea: PM to Lankan Tea Workers
"I have a special association with tea" was how Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an instant connect with the Tamil community members here in the tea-growing Central Province of Sri Lanka.
Modi, in his address, lauded Ceylon Tea, saying it was world famous but what was lesser known was the sweat and labour that goes into it.
You and I have something in common. I have a special association with tea. Chai pe Charcha or discussions over tea is mark of deep respect for dignity and integrity of honest labour.
PM Modi Addresses Indian-Origin Tamil Community, Hails MGR, Muralitharan
PM Modi on Friday hailed the contributions of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and India, saying the community "gifted" the world ace cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan and national icon 'Puratchi Thalaivar' MGR.
Addressing the Indian-origin Tamil community in Sri Lanka, the PM said, “If Sri Lanka today is third largest exporter of tea, it's because of your handiwork.”
“We remember your forefathers. Men and women of strong will and courage, who made the journey of their life from India to then Ceylon,” he added.
Talking about development and ties with India, he said, “You kept your bonds with India alive, [I] assure you that India will support Sri Lanka’s efforts towards your socio-economic development.”
He said that he was aware of the government of Sri Lanka taking active steps to improve the living conditions of Indian-origin Tamilians, including a 5-year National Plan of Action.
As per the plan, Sri Lanka government is making 4,000 houses for the Indian-origin Tamil community. PM Modi announced an additional 10,000 houses.
By taking the names of Muralitharan and MGR, Modi tried to bridge the physical gap that divide the Tamil population in Sri Lanka and India.
MGR, who was born in Sri Lanka's Kandy, was an Indian actor and politician who served as chief minister of Tamil Nadu for 10 years between 1977 and 1987. Regarded as a cultural icon and one of the most influential actors, MGR has unparalleled admiration among the Tamil community.
And Muralitharan, a former Sri Lankan cricketer who is rated among the greatest Test match bowlers of all time, was also born to a Tamil family in Kandy.
He is the highest wicket-taker in Test Cricket and ODI Cricket. In 2005, he married a native of Chennai.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inaugurates Dickoya Hospital
The PM inaugurated an India-funded 150-bed multi-speciality hospital at Dickoya in the central hill district, which is home to Tamil tea plantation workers of Indian origin. India will be giving an aid of $2.6 billion for the hospital.
