The Republic Day reception by the Hindu Council of Britain was attended by a large number of dignitaries including Tony McNulty, home and immigration minister. Addressing the gathering he said Britain was keen to prevent the reverse brain drain of British Indians returning to India to set up shop.
The proceedings at the Malabar Junction restaurant opened with the Indian National anthem "Jan Gana mana…". McNulty's speech was much appreciated. He said India had currently become the most attractive destination and added "our efforts were on to prevent bright Indians youths from leaving this country. We want them to contribute to the growth of this country".
He admired the great strides India had made during the last few years and hailed the strong link between the two countries in various fields. He also referred to his visit to Gujarat and recalled how vigorously the people of the state had recovered from the earthquake disaster and rebuilt their lives.
Deputy High Commissioner of India Ranjan Mathai, enumerated the growth of India and said according to the current estimate the country would be one of the three largest economies of the world by 2030.
Lord Navnit Dholakia, deputy leader of Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords and a leading NRI said, "India is not only the largest democracy but the most mature democracy. The East India Company went to India for trade and ruled the country for over 250 years. Now things have changed and Indians who have come and settled down here are paying our debts by building a society within which we can be equals."
{{/usCountry}}Lord Navnit Dholakia, deputy leader of Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords and a leading NRI said, "India is not only the largest democracy but the most mature democracy. The East India Company went to India for trade and ruled the country for over 250 years. Now things have changed and Indians who have come and settled down here are paying our debts by building a society within which we can be equals."
{{/usCountry}}Anil Bhanot, secretary general of the council, said it would be wonderful if we could have a Pashupatinath Temple in Britain. The Nepalese Ambassador was also present.