Doha, 15 August 2025: The Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), under the aegis of the Embassy of India in Qatar, celebrated Indian Independence Day with a special program dedicated to low-income blue-collar workers among the Indian diaspora. The event, held at Ashoka Hall in Abu Hamur, featured a vibrant cultural program of songs and dances. The Embassy of India, in collaboration with ICBF, also honored several social workers for their continued service to the community in Qatar.

H.E. Mr. Vipul, Ambassador of India to Qatar, attended as the chief guest, along with Mr. Eish Singhal, Embassy First Secretary & ICBF Coordinating Officer, and Mr. Ravi Rathi, Labor Officer. The Ambassador presented mementos to the awardees, lauding their humanitarian contributions, and distributed free food kits to nearly 100 fishermen before the commencement of the program. He also highlighted the significance of India-Qatar bilateral relations and recent strides in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Several community leaders graced the occasion, including ICBF Advisory Council Chairman Mr. Prasad Garu, Program Committee Chairman Mr. K V Boban, ICC General Secretary Mr. Abraham Joseph, ICC Advisory Council Chairman Mr. P N Baburajan, Past President of ICBF Mr. Neelangshu Dey, and IBPC Vice President Mr. Abdul Sathar. The gathering was welcomed by ICBF General Secretary Mr. Deepak Shetty, while ICBF President Mr. Shanavas Bava delivered the presidential address. The vote of thanks was extended by Mr. Shankar Goud, Head of Labor and Fishermen Welfare at ICBF.

The cultural events were coordinated by Ms. Neelambari S, Head of Jail Visits, and Mr. Pradeep Pillai, with the support of managing committee members Mr. Amarvir Singh, Ms. Mini Siby, Mr. Manibharathi, and Mr. Irfan Ansari. A spot quiz competition for workers, presented by Mr. Varkey Boban, added to the celebrations, with prizes awarded to the winners. This annual initiative reflects ICBF’s unwavering commitment to compassion, solidarity, and service, reinforcing its mission to support and uplift all sections of the Indian community in Qatar.