I call you 'Rashtradoot', says PM Modi while addressing Indian diaspora in New York

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speech at New York’s Nassau Coliseum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 22 addressed the Indian diaspora in New York’s Nassau Coliseum and dubbed them the ‘Rashtradoot’.

He said, “I have always understood the capabilities of the Indian diaspora. I understood it even when I held no official position...For me, you all have been strong brand ambassadors of India. This is why I call you 'Rashtradoot'...”

Speaking about the contributions of Indians living in America, he said, "For the world, AI means artificial intelligence, but for me, AI also means American-Indian spirit. This is the new 'AI' power of the world....I salute the Indian diaspora here."

The PM added, "You have connected India to America and America to India. Your skill, talent, and commitment have no competition. You might have come seven seas apart, but no sea has that much depth that it can distance you from India. What Ma Bharati has taught us, we can never forget that. Wherever we go, we accept all as family. To understand diversity, to live diversity is in our veins."

Read detailed updates of PM Modi's speech here

Modi further said that wherever he goes, world leaders praise the Indian diaspora. He said: “Wherever I go in the world, every leader praises the Indian diaspora. Yesterday, President Biden took me to his home, in Delaware. His affection was a heart-touching moment for me. That honour is of 140 crore Indians, this honour is yours, and of lakhs of Indians living here. I am grateful to President Biden and you people.”

PM Modi then went on to say that Indians are also a strong voice of the Global South... “Today, when India says something on a global platform, the world listens. Some time ago when I said that this is not the era of war, its severity was understood by all...,” he said.

Modi also announced that India has decided to open two new consulates in Boston and Los Angeles.

He said, “Last year, I declared that our govt would open a new consulate in Seattle, it has been started now. We have also sought suggestions for two new consulates. I am happy to tell you that after your suggestion, India has decided to open two new consulates in Boston and Los Angeles.”

(With ANI inputs)