During his historic visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a special meeting with Mangal Sain Handa, a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer. The heartfelt interaction was facilitated by a social media appeal from Handa’s granddaughter, Shreya Juneja.
This visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister to Kuwait in 43 years, following an invitation from Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
The Meeting: A Moment of Pride
PM Modi’s meeting with Mangal Sain Handa took place at the hotel where the Prime Minister is staying. The meeting was arranged after Juneja posted a request on X (formerly Twitter): “Humble request to Hon’ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tomorrow’s interaction with the Indian diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours.”
The Prime Minister promptly responded, stating: “Absolutely! I look forward to meeting @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait today.”
Delighted to have met Shri @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait this afternoon. I admire his contribution to India and his passion for India’s development. pic.twitter.com/mxFtynFatC
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024
The exchange delighted the family, with Juneja later posting: “It’s an honour to receive a response from you, sir! You’ve won our hearts once again. Nanaji @MangalSainHanda is overjoyed, and his smile means the world to us. We’re deeply grateful for this kind gesture.”
Past Connection
This isn’t the first time PM Modi has reached out to Handa. On his 100th birthday, the Prime Minister sent a personal letter praising his contributions to Indian diplomacy. Handa expressed his gratitude for the gesture on social media, saying: “It has been worth living for 100 years to witness India grow under his leadership.”
Highlights of PM Modi’s Kuwait Visit
Indian Diaspora Interaction: PM Modi interacted with the vibrant Indian community in Kuwait, showcasing India’s deep cultural and economic ties with the Gulf nation.
Indian Labour Camp Visit: A visit to an Indian labour camp underscored the government’s commitment to the welfare of Indian workers abroad.
ALSO READ: PM Modi reaches Kuwait on 2-day historic visit
Opening the Gulf Cup: The Prime Minister also attended the inauguration of the Arabian Gulf Cup, a major football tournament.
This trip aims to deepen bilateral relations and forge a roadmap for future cooperation between India and Kuwait.
A Historic Visit
The last Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait was Indira Gandhi in 1981. PM Modi’s visit is being hailed as a significant step in strengthening ties, with engagements focusing on trade, energy, and people-to-people connections.
The warm meeting with Handa has added a personal touch to the historic visit, resonating with the values of respect for the elderly and recognition of past service.
