India ceded the atoll in 1974 when the Indian National Congress led by Indira Gandhi was in power. Experts believe the prime minister is using the issue to woo voters in India’s southern states ahead of national elections, set to start on 19 April.
Marking the event could serve as a platform to revive cultural exchanges, reminding both that for most of human history, they have lived in peace, writes Archishman Raju.
Last week, India advised its citizens to stay away from getting caught up in the Russia-Ukraine conflict following reports that Indian nationals in support jobs had been forced to fight alongside Russian troops | Latest News India
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal further said Indians in Russia have been advised not to venture into the war zone or get caught into situations which are difficult.