1. On the occasion of the 69th anniversary of India's Independence Day, Mr. Vishnu Prakash the High Commissioner of India, unfurled the tricolor at the Chancery premises at 0900 hrs today.   It was followed by singing of the National Anthem. The High Commissioner read out excerpts from President's message to the nation and addressed the gathering comprising of members and families of the Indo-Canadian Community, friends of India and officials of the High Commission. In the ensuing reception over simple refreshments the attendees mingled happily.

2. To mark the occasion, a special flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Ottawa city hall with the active support of the India-Canada Association, later in the morning. The function which included a cultural programme and brief reception, was addressed by Mayor of Ottawa Hon'ble Jim Watson and the High Commissioner of India. Members of the community and friends of India turned out in numbers to honourthe national flag.

3. Mayor Watson commended the Indian community for giving an exemplary account of themselves in all walks of life. Three of the top five real-estate developers in Ottawa region were of Indian origin he noted. High Commissioner Prakash spoke of vibrant Indian economy,called upon the Indo-Canadian community to nurture their cultural links with India and announced introduction of 10-year tourist and business visas for Canadian nations.

4. Earlier on 13th August, High Commissioner Prakash hosted a Reception at The Westin Ottawa.  It was attended by Canadian political leaders, government officials, businessmen, academicians, members of the diplomatic corps, as well as, prominent Indo-Canadians and representatives of various Indian Community Associations.   The over 300 guests were treated to a colourful cultural programme and sumptuous Indian cuisine.

Ottawa
15 August 2015