PM Modi addresses Indian community in Melbourne, highlights India-Australia partnership and Operation Sindoor
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a packed gathering of the Indian community in Melbourne, celebrating the deep cultural bonds between India and Australia while highlighting India's growing global stature in defence, technology, innovation and economic development.
Addressing nearly 30,000 members of the Indian diaspora, PM Modi used a light-hearted analogy to describe the community's dual identity, saying, "The milk at home might be Australian, but the tea brewed is Indian." He added that while daily life may be rooted in Australia, emotional and cultural ties with India remain strong.
Calling the event a "houseful blockbuster", Modi praised the Indian diaspora for contributing to Australia's growth while staying connected to their roots. He said Indians around the world enrich the societies they live in, comparing them to "sugar dissolving in milk, making it even sweeter."
The Prime Minister's address came after his summit with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, during which both countries agreed to expand cooperation under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The two sides announced 18 outcomes covering trade, defence, clean energy, critical technologies and investment.
Highlighting India's defence capabilities, Modi referred to Operation Sindoor, saying the strikes targeted terrorist hideouts and demonstrated the credibility of India's indigenous defence platforms. He said the operation had strengthened global confidence in India's security capabilities.
The Prime Minister also spoke about India's digital transformation, citing initiatives such as DigiLocker, self-attestation reforms and the country's expanding startup ecosystem. He said India has become the world's third-largest startup ecosystem and continues to emerge as a global innovation hub.
Emphasising India's humanitarian role, Modi said the country extends assistance without discrimination, pointing to relief efforts after the recent earthquake in Venezuela as an example of India's commitment to global welfare.
He also highlighted the benefits of the India-Australia trade agreement, saying stronger economic cooperation would create new opportunities for both nations and further deepen bilateral ties.
