Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude to the US government for returning over 100 rare and ancient artefacts to India.
“A few days ago, social media was abuzz with the news that America had returned over 100 rare and ancient artefacts to India. These artefacts are anywhere between 250 and 2500 years old. These rare and precious items belong to different regions of the country,” PM Modi said during the 103rd episode of his monthly radio broadcast — ‘Mann Ki Baat’ — on July 30.
"I would like to thank the US Government for returning these items, which testify to our proud heritage. Even during my visit to the US in 2016 and 2021, many similar artefacts were returned to India," PM Modi added.
Earlier, the Indian consulate in New York held a repatriation ceremony for 105 trafficked antiquities handed over by the US.
The ceremony followed PM Modi’s maiden State visit to the US in June. Speaking at the event, Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, thanked the US, and, in particular, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and his Anti-Trafficking Unit and the Homeland Security Investigation team for their stellar cooperation and support.
The envoy noted that for the people of India, these were not just pieces of art but a part of their heritage and culture.
The repatriation ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the Homeland Security Investigation team, as per an official release.
(ANI)