15 August 2022
The Diplomatic Informer Magazine wishes to congratulate the Government and the people of India on the occasion of 75th anniversary of the independence day.
We sincerely wish the Government & the people of India continued unity, peace and increased prosperity.
Today, August 15, India is celebrating 75 years of its Independence. The Independence Day of India, is celebrated religiously throughout the Country on the 15th of August every year, it reminds every Indian about the dawn of a new beginning, the beginning of an era of deliverance from the clutches of British colonialism of more than 200 years.
It was on 15th August 1947 that India was declared independent from British colonialism, and the reins of control were handed over to the leaders of the Country. India’s gaining of independence was a tryst with destiny, as the struggle for freedom was a long and tiresome one, witnessing the sacrifices of many freedom fighters, who laid down their lives on the line.
British rule in India began in 1757 when, following the British victory at the Battle of Plassey, the English East India Company began exercising control over the country. The East India Company ruled India for 100 years, until it was replaced by direct British rule (often referred to as the British raj) in the wake of the Indian Mutiny in 1857–58. The Indian independence movement began during World War I and was led by Mohandas K. Gandhi, who advocated for a peaceful and nonviolent end to British rule.
Independence Day is marked throughout India with flag-raising ceremonies, drills, and the singing of the Indian national anthem. Additionally, various cultural programs are made available in the state capitals. After the prime minister participates in the flag-raising ceremony at the Red Fort historic monument in Old Delhi, a parade ensues with members of the armed forces and police.
South Africa and India Relations
India and South Africa established a strategic partnership in March 1997. 2017 marked 20 years of our Strategic Partnership and 2018 marked 25 years since the re-establishment of diplomatic relations with South Africa. 2018 also marked 125 years since the Pietermaritzburg ‘incident’ involving Mahatma Gandhi.
Trade South Africa and India
The most important products exported to India are mineral products, wood, pulp and paper, iron and steel products, chemicals, machinery, precious metal, vegetables, wood products, photographic and medical equipment and vehicles, aircraft and vessels.
South Africa’s imports from India are dominated by mineral products, vehicles, aircraft and vessels, chemicals, machinery, iron and steel products, vegetables, textiles, plastic and rubber, equipment components and precious metal.