ICCR, the cultural arm of India’s diplomacy, celebrates its 75th anniversary at India centre
348
Yangon, NP News - April 9
The 75th anniversary of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), established by the Government of India on April 9, 1950, was celebrated today (April 9) at the India Centre in Yangon at 5:30 pm.
The Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, Mr. Abhay Thakur, delivered the inaugural address, highlighting that ICCR serves as a bridge for the exchange of literature and cultural heritage between India and Myanmar.
Since its inception, ICCR has played a major role in connecting people worldwide with India. It has showcased India's rich cultural offerings abroad, displayed foreign cultural and art forms in India, exchanged artists and scholars, and provided scholarships and fellowships.
In his speech, the Ambassador noted that through ICCR’s Swami Vivekanand Cultural Centre in Yangon, 28 artists from Myanmar visited India during the 2024-25 period to participate in events such as the Kullu Dussehra Festival, Surajkund Mela, and the Ramayan performing arts workshop. Additionally, a Ramayana exhibition was held at the National Museum in Yangon. ICCR also awarded 39 university scholarships, as part of a total of 421 short-term and long-term courses offered to students and trainees from Myanmar. The remaining scholarships were provided through the ITEC, Mekong Ganga, and BIMSTEC scholarship schemes.
The Ambassador also emphasized the true spirit of India-Myanmar solidarity demonstrated during the Mandalay earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28. He mentioned that India was the first responder to the emergency through Operation Brahma, reinforcing India’s commitment to its neighbour. He further highlighted Myanmar’s importance to India in the context of the India’s three key policies: Neighbourhood First, Act East, and the Indo-Pacific.
During the event, Dr. Ashin Nyanissara, recipient of the ICCR International Award for the Promotion of Buddhism (2023), along with ICCR scholarship alumni, Minister Dr. Myo Kyaw Thein, Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr. Wah Wah Maung, deputy minister of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, Rector Dr. Kay Thi Lwin of Hmawbi Technological University, and Professor Dr. Soe Win, permanent secretary (Retired), Ministry of Education, sent video messages congratulating ICCR on its 75th anniversary.
The event was attended by political party leaders, ICCR alumni, and fellows. The ceremony featured traditional dances that highlighted the cultural fusion of India and Myanmar.