Vancouver celebrates second ‘Native Indian Community Day’; Calls to relaunch India-Canada relations
Babushahi Bureau
Vancouver (Canada), March 18,2026: The Indian community’s immense contributions to Canada were celebrated in style at the second Native Indian Community Day last Sunday at South Hall Banquet Hall, Vancouver.
Organized by the Consulate General of India in Vancouver, the event drew hundreds of diaspora members, including prominent figures from politics, business, and social sectors.
The celebration began with a welcome address by Consulate General Meskui Rungsung, followed by a keynote from India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, who emphasized that India-Canada relations should not just be ‘reset’ but relaunched.
Highlighting shared democratic values and the diaspora’s efforts, he called these ties a strong bridge connecting both nations.
British Columbia Premier David Eby described India as a vital economic partner and shared memories from his recent visit to India.
He stated that B.C. is prepared to meet India’s energy requirements and expressed hope that the India-Canada Comprehensive Trade Agreement will soon be finalized, boosting the economies of both countries.
Emotions ran high when former Premier Ujjal Dosanjh reminded attendees to cherish their Indian roots and heritage, despite their success abroad. Other speakers, including former Alberta Minister Leela Ahir, praised the community’s role in strengthening bilateral ties.
A special panel discussion featuring Anita Huberman, Jatinder Dhir, Ravi Prakash Singh, and Dr. A.R. Ilangovan explored the diaspora’s role in depth. The event also showcased handicrafts from various Indian states and a gallery commemorating 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’.
Notable attendees included Speaker Raj Chauhan, Minister Jagroop Brar, Parliamentary Secretary Sunita Dhir, MLA Rohini Arora, former Minister Ginni Sims, Vancouver Police Chief Steve Roy, and Pix CEO Satbir Singh Cheema.