 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Mar 28: Gulam Ali, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, on Friday 28th March, 2025, raised an important issue during the Special Mention session, urging the Government of India and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to revive the Arabic magazine Thaqafatul Hind, which was discontinued in 2017.
Addressing the House, Gulam Ali highlighted that Thaqafatul Hind, launched in 1950 by the ICCR, played a key role in promoting Indian culture, literature, and heritage in the Arab world. The magazine featured Arabic translations of Indian short stories, poetry, and scholarly articles, making it an essential reference for researchers and academics in Arab countries. Distributed through Indian embassies, the magazine was widely read in universities and libraries, contributing significantly to strengthening India's cultural identity in the region.
*Discontinuation Left a Void in Cultural Diplomacy*
Gulam Ali expressed concern over the discontinuation of Thaqafatul Hind in 2017, noting that its absence had created a vacuum in India's cultural diplomacy efforts. "The magazine served as an effective medium for strengthening India's ties with the Arab world by dispelling misconceptions and fostering mutual understanding. Its discontinuation has left a void that needs to be filled," he said.
*Call for Revival Amid Strengthening India-Arab Ties*
Emphasizing the growing importance of India's relations with the Arab world, especially with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Gulam Ali stressed that the revival of Thaqafatul Hind is not just a cultural necessity but also a strategic move to enhance India's soft power.
"As India continues to deepen its ties with Arab nations, the revival of Thaqafatul Hind is essential to project India's intellectual and cultural presence in the region," he added.
*Appeal to Government and ICCR*
Urging the Government and the ICCR to take immediate steps to republish the magazine, Gulam Ali underlined that Thaqafatul Hind had always represented India's shared heritage and diversity, making it a valuable tool for enhancing people-to-people connections.
"With India's increasing engagement with the Arab world, reviving Thaqafatul Hind can play a pivotal role in fostering stronger cultural ties and enhancing India's image globally," he said.
*Push for Strengthening India's Soft Power*
The issue raised by Gulam Ali has drawn attention to the importance of cultural diplomacy in India's foreign policy. His call for the revival of Thaqafatul Hind is expected to resonate with policymakers, given its potential to strengthen India's cultural influence in the Arab world and reinforce bilateral relations. |
