Indian Ambassador to US S Jaishankar hails Sikh community's role in the US

WASHINGTON: Indian Ambassador to the US, S Jaishankar has hailed the contributions of the Sikh community as pioneers among the Indian-Americans embodying the spirit of India.

During a reception held to celebrate Baisakhi- that marks the beginning of the harvest season for Sikhs - Jaishanker noted that the gathering was both to mark the auspicious occasion and to recognise the contributions and concerns of the Sikh community in the US.

He reflected on the contributions of the Sikh community in strengthening the Indo-US relations and recognised the community as pioneers among the Indian-Americans embodying the spirit of India.

The Sikh community gave the first Indian-American Member of US Congress.

The celebration at the ambassador's residence yesterday was attended by over 200 guests belonging to the Sikh community from across the Unites States.

Jaishankar emphasised the Indian Embassy's commitment to the welfare and progress of Sikhs in the US, and cited as example his public support for the initiative to allow Sikh members of the US military to display articles of faith.

On the occasion, a congratulatory message sent by Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley was read out.

The celebrations included religious invocation, a cultural programme, and an exposition by a noted Sikh scholar on the relevance and meaning of Baisakhi.