MUSCAT : The inauguration of the two week long Sewa Utsav being organized by the Embassy in association with Indian Social Club (ISC) was held during the special ‘Happinezz Workshop’ for children with special needs as a part of ‘Sewa Utsav’ under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

The event was graced by Her Highness Sayyida Hujaija Al Said, Chairperson, Association for the Welfare of Handicapped Children as Chief Guest and Shri Suresh Virmani as Guest of Honor. The stars for the event were children from Care & Special Education (CSE) as the program was organized to focus on the need of inclusive education and highlight the important work being done in this regard by CSE. Committee members and teachers from CSE, parents and ISC members also participated in the event. 

The event started with the welcome of Chief Guest and Guest of Honor by Ambassador Amit Narang and Madam Divya Narang. Ambassador in his address spoke about the world wide celebration being done to commemorate 75 years of India’s independence under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and the unique celebration being organized in Oman by the Indian community under the aegis of Embassy through serving the local community under Sewa Utsav. Ambassador mentioned that Sewa Utsav is inspired by the common cultural ethos between both the countries, especially noble ideas of holy month of Ramadan and core Indian value of serving the humanity.

A special message from Shri V. Muraleedharan, Honorable Minister of State for External Affairs of India was played during the event. The honorable Minister commended the Indian community for the noble initiative and expressed thanks to Oman government for extending full support. He added that selfless service promotes harmony and brotherhood and the Sewa Utsav will further enhance friendly ties between India and Oman. The honorable Minister also conveyed thanks to His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik and government and people of Oman for gracious support to the Indian community including during COVID pandemic.         

A video on the activities of CSE was shown to increase awareness about the challenges faced by children with special needs and the wonderful work being done by  CSE. Many entertaining activities were organized during the event to entertain the young invitees from CSE, including a magic show, dance performances, music performance and live painting by children. The children also showcased their talent with two beautiful dance performances.

The event concluded with presentation of mementos to children by Ambassador sir and madam. The participation by children from Care & Special Education (CSE) supported by Indian Schools in Oman added extra energy and joy to the auspicious start of the Sewa Utsav.