The High Commission of Jamaica in India hosted a reception to mark the 63rd Independence Day of Jamaica, attended by diplomats, dignitaries, and senior officials. Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, extended warm greetings on behalf of the Government and people of India and highlighted the enduring partnership between the two nations.
“It is a profound honour for me to join you this evening in celebrating the 63rd Independence Day of Jamaica,” said Patel. “On behalf of the Government and people of India, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt felicitations to the Government and people of Jamaica on this joyous occasion.”
The Minister noted that Jamaica’s independence was not merely a remembrance of history, but a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people. “It is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the indomitable spirit of the Jamaican people, who have built a nation admired across the world,” she observed.
180 Years of Shared History
This year marks a special milestone in India–Jamaica relations—180 years since the first Indians arrived in Jamaica in 1845. Patel acknowledged the role of the Indian diaspora, which today numbers around 70,000, in strengthening cultural and social ties between the two countries.
“They raised their families, worked the land, built enterprises, and enriched Jamaica’s cultural and social fabric. Today, the vibrant Indian diaspora is a true living bridge between our two nations. Serving as doctors, teachers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, they embody Jamaica’s proud motto: ‘Out of many, one people.’”
Growing Bilateral Ties
Recalling key milestones, Patel highlighted the first-ever Presidential visit of Shri Ram Nath Kovind to Jamaica in 2022 and the historic visit of Prime Minister Andrew Holness to India in 2024, which resulted in four MoUs on cultural exchange, digital public infrastructure, digital payments, and sports.
She also underscored India’s development cooperation efforts. “In the last decade, we have trained more than 180 Jamaican officials, offered annual ITEC and ICCR scholarships, and facilitated defence training programmes. Jamaica’s Defence Forces have greatly benefited from these initiatives,” she said.
India’s contribution to Jamaica’s sporting culture also received a mention. Patel noted the recent installation of a Made-in-India USD 1 million LED scoreboard at Kingston’s Sabina Park Cricket Stadium. “This installation has enhanced the experience of cricket lovers in Kingston,” she remarked.
Solidarity in Times of Need
The Minister recalled India’s consistent support to Jamaica during times of crisis, from natural disasters like Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and Tropical Storm Nicole in 2010, to the COVID-19 pandemic and, most recently, humanitarian aid worth 60 million Jamaican dollars in 2025. “India has always stood by Jamaica in times of need,” she reaffirmed.
Looking Ahead
As India advances towards becoming the third-largest economy in the world, Patel said, the partnership with Jamaica is poised to expand further. “We are committed to sharing our growth story and developmental experiences with Jamaica—particularly in trade, technology, tourism, healthcare, and culture,” she said.
Highlighting recent cooperation in health, Patel pointed to the visit of Jamaican Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton to India earlier this year, which has opened new avenues in healthcare and capacity building.
On global concerns, she reaffirmed India and Jamaica’s shared positions on UN Security Council reforms, climate justice, food and energy security, and counterterrorism. “We deeply value Jamaica’s support in these areas,” she said.
A Future of Opportunities
Looking to the future, Patel expressed optimism about the potential of the bilateral relationship. “As Jamaica celebrates its 63rd Independence Day, I see a horizon full of opportunities—in trade, investment, renewable energy, digital transformation, healthcare, education, sports, culture, and more.”
She concluded her address with a celebratory message: “May our bonds of friendship continue to grow as a shining example of South–South cooperation, cultural richness, and enduring partnership. Be proud, be bold, in the black, green, and gold. Jai Hind. Jai Jamaica.”
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