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India Republic Day Sunday, January 26, 2012 10Special Supplement

‘We must build a strong, prosperous nation’On the eve of our 63rd Republic

Day, I convey my warmest greetings to all of you across the country, from every walk of life and in different parts

of the world. I convey my special greetings to the armed forces and the paramilitary forces who guard our frontiers with great vigil and valor, in high mountainous ter-rain, deserts and the plains, on the coasts and the seas. I also convey my best wishes to our internal security forces and to our civil services. I compliment all citizens for their contribution to the process of nation building.

We are living in a world that is complex and challenging. Forces of globalization have created an interlinked and interde-pendent world. no country exists in isola-tion; it is continuously being influenced by external developments. All nations, developed and developing, are facing the impact of global economic instability, as well as problems of unemployment and inflation, in varying degrees. Indeed, the 21st Century has brought in its trail a host of issues at a breathtaking pace. there are growing aspirations of the people, coupled with their expectations of immediate solutions. We are observing an information explosion and ever-newer technological inventions. these have altered lifestyles and there is also a grow-ing quest for materialism. there are per-sistent questions about how growth and resources will be shared in a more equi-table manner. there are worries about the direction in which the human commu-nity is heading in this age of globaliza-tion, knowledge and technology.

For us in India, the discourse is about how an ancient civilization and a young nation will move ahead to take India to its destiny. Our vision and our goals are clear. We look at building our country, as one whose economy demonstrates robust-ness to grow, so that we can become a developed nation. For us, however, eco-nomic prosperity alone is not enough. We

look toward an India, where there is equity and justice. We look at democracy, rule of law and human values, as being essential for making our country strong. We want a scientific and technological outlook in our people. We also look toward India as a country that will con-tinue to bring moral force on to the global stage. I believe that there is a unity behind this vision of India. Yet, some-times one gets distracted by discordant pulls and pressures. how should we pro-ceed to build our nation and its people? I believe that the answer lies in our age old values; the ideals of our freedom move-ment; the principles of our Constitution, as also in our unity, a positive attitude and our aspiration to grow.

It is often said, but not fully realized, that we are very fortunate to have a rich legacy of values, traditions and teachings. the ageless spirit of India, the eternal voice of India, has been resonating through millennia. What are those intrin-sic qualities that have seen India prosper through centuries and eras? What is the message that should light our path, as we chart our future course? Our civiliza-tional ethos contains the lessons of duty and truth. It tells us to be humane in all our thoughts and deeds. It highlights the qualities of compassion, care and of respect for others. It teaches that human beings and nature must exist in harmony with each other. All issues should be viewed in the context of humanity as a

whole. As the inheritors of thousands of years of history and culture, we should follow the high ideals of our age-old civi-lization. More particularly, the youth should understand this, as they are the architects of the future as well. Our past becomes the essential guide for the future as well. In this context, I recall the lines of Rabindranath tagore and I quote, “every great people holds its history so valuable because … it contains not mere memo-ries, but hope, and therefore the image of the future.” the past of India has been glorious and so must be its future.

We can also draw inspiration from our independence movement. It was a unique struggle, as it involved nonviolent meth-ods and required extraordinary mass

discipline, steadfastness and patience. We followed this course, under the lead-ership of Gandhiji, because we had faith in ourselves and in our strength. Surely, we can demonstrate the same discipline in nation building. But, how do we do this? It is, only when we resolve to make the goal of nation building more impor-tant, than anything else and, show strong belief in it. It is then that courage, confi-dence and determination, shall be our companions in this task, which has to be carefully piloted in a constitutionally acceptable order.

In fact, during various times of difficul-ties or when searching for an answer, the Constitution has provided us our moor-ings. It was framed by those who had participated in the freedom struggle, and had a deep understanding of the aspira-tions of the people, and of our culture. the Constitution has been and should be our compass, guiding us in nation-build-ing. It is the charter of our democracy. It is the document guaranteeing individual freedoms to its citizens. It is the basis on which institutions of the state have been created and have derived their powers and functions. Our Constitution is a living and dynamic instrument, which has demon-strated its ability to be flexible enough to meet the demands of changing times, while retaining its basic features.

there is tremendous work to be done to move forward on our social and eco-nomic agenda, if we are to achieve fast, inclusive and sustainable growth. Our foremost priority is the removal of pover-ty, hunger and malnutrition, disease and illiteracy. All social welfare programs must be implemented efficiently. Agencies involved in the delivery of services should have a strong sense of duty and work in a transparent, corruption-free, time-bound and accountable manner.

India can take pride in its democratic record, but as in any functional democ-racy, it faces pressures and challenges. An important feature of a democracy is the

constant expression of opinions. this pro-cess of incessant dialogue should flow in such a manner, that we are willing to lis-ten to each other. those who believe in democracy must try to see whether there is rationale in the others’ point of view.

India’s foreign policy is aimed at the promotion of an environment that is con-ducive to its socio-economic transforma-tion. We seek to build bridges of coopera-tion and friendship with all countries of the world. We constructively engage with the international community to find responses to global challenges. the role and stature of India, has been growing and our nation has been scaling up in the ladder of the comity of nations. India seeks an architecture for global institutions that is more reflective of contemporary reali-ties. We are also proud of the contributions of the Indian Diaspora, spread over many countries and across continents, to the economic, professional and political fields of the countries where they live.

In conclusion, I would like to say that we must build a strong, prosperous nation, based upon a firm system of val-ues. As we remove poverty, let us also enrich our thoughts. As we remove dis-ease, let us all remove ill will toward oth-ers. As our youth study more and acquire more knowledge, let them also learn to be more involved in activities for the prog-ress of the nation other than only self-advancement. As we legislate, let us also understand that the most effective law is the conscience of citizens. As we advance in science and technology, let us realize and understand that it is more for human welfare. As we use earth’s resources, let us not forget to replenish and renew its vital-ity. On the eve of our Republic Day, let me once again convey my greetings, to all fellow citizens.

Jai Hind!

Pratibha Devisingh Patil(President of India)

Indian President Pratibha Devisingh Patil.

Role of Indian expats laudedOn the eve of the 63rd Republic

Day of India, I extend my greet-ings and good wishes to all my

fellow citizens and friends residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

the historical ties that bind India and the Arabian Peninsula in the realms of commerce, trade and culture impart it a distinct character that transcends con-ventional boundaries of human engage-ment. We are living in an era where the level of bilateral engagement between India and Saudi Arabia has reached a new high. the historic visit of Custodian of the two holy Mosques King Abdullah to India in January 2006 provided a fresh impetus to Indo-Saudi bilateral relations.

the Delhi Declaration signed between the two leaders has charted the desired roadmap for both countries to move for-ward. the landmark visit of the Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in early 2010 heralded a new era of strategic part-nership between the two countries. the Delhi and Riyadh Declarations have pro-vided the framework, roadmap and momentum to elevate bilateral relations between our two countries to new heights.

Around 2 million Indian expatriates are residing in Saudi Arabia and their

contributions to the overall progress and development of the Kingdom have been acknowledged and appreciated by the Saudi authorities. the Indian commu-nity has earned a reputation as hard working, law abiding and peace loving. the fact that so many of my fellow citi-zens are residing in this friendly country and some for many years is in itself a testimony to their acceptance by the Saudi people. I would like to thank Custodian of the two holy Mosques King Abdullah for the continuous support and

patronage extended to the Indian com-munity in the Kingdom and also for the successful conclusion of the haj in 2011.

the presence of a strong political will at the highest levels in the two countries shows the willingness to engage with each other at all levels and in all spheres of human activity. there is increasing cooperation between educational and research institutes of the two countries in the advanced areas of science and technology, It and biotechnology. I have no doubt that cooperation in these vital sectors will go a long way in the develop-ment of human resources, manpower development and training and knowl-edge-based industries in the Kingdom.

Bilateral trade between the two coun-tries has been impressive, to say the least. From a modest figure of $15.94 billion in 2006-07; bilateral trade at the end of 2010-11 has exceeded $25 billion, mark-ing a $10 billion increase in five years. today for India, Saudi Arabia is its fourth largest partner, while for the Kingdom India is its fifth largest trading partner. For Indian exports, Saudi Arabia is the 11th largest market; for Saudi Arabia India is its fifth largest market in the world.

(Continued on Page15)

Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao

Multifaceted Indo-Saudi ties growingAS we celebrate the 63rd anniversary of

India’s Republic Day, I would like to extend my heartfelt greetings and best

wishes to all our friends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to fellow Indians and persons of Indian origin residing in the Kingdom.

At the outset, I would like to congratulate all the Saudi agencies responsible for haj manage-ment for the smooth and safe conduct of haj 2011 (1432 h). the government of Custodian of the two holy Mosques King Abdullah under his able and wise leadership has left no stone unturned to provide the best possible facilities to guests of God. From the Indian perspective, this haj was hailed as one of the smoothest in the recent years. We take this opportunity to thank the various Saudi agencies for extending their whole-hearted cooperation and sup-port to the Indian haj mission and helping it in making satisfac-tory arrangements for the 170,000 Indian pilgrims.

I am glad to mention on this occasion that India and Saudi Arabia have very close and cordial relations for centuries, but since the historical visit of King Abdullah to India in January,

2006, both the countries have been working toward upgrading the bilateral relations in the fields of political, economic, cultural, as well as people-to-people interactions. the visit of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Kingdom in February 2010 heralded a new era in Indo-Saudi relations. Keeping in view the development of relations between the two countries and the potential for further growth, the two leaders signed the ‘Riyadh Declaration’, which outlines a “new era of strategic partnership” between the two countries in security, economic, defense and political areas. the two leaders also reiterated their desire to develop as knowledge-based econ-omies, particularly focusing on information technology and space science.

During the last few years, particularly after the visit of King Abdullah to India, bilateral trade between the two countries made a quantum jump and the trade between India and Saudi Arabia has surged from $15,946.10 million in 2006-07 to $25,612.46 million in 2010-11.

(Continued on Page 15)

Consul General of IndiaFaiz Ahmad Kidwai

Thursday, January 26, 2012 11india republic day

Lulu continues to script a success story in Kingdom

SIRAJ WAHAB | ARAB NEWS

ALKHOBAR: Encouraged by its phe-nomenal success in Riyadh and Alkhobar, Lulu Hypermarket is planning to open more retail out-lets in the Kingdom.

Currently, there are three Lulu centers in the Kingdom — two in Riyadh (at Riyadh Avenue Mall, Murabba and Rabwa, Exit 14) and one in Alkhobar (at King Fahd Street). All three have become pop-ular destinations.

The Emke Group, led and owned by well-known Indian businessman Yusuffali M.A., operates Lulu Hypermarket which is considered

one of the most popular retail chains in the Middle East.

Lulu opened its first Saudi hyper-market in Alkhobar in 2009. It was the group’s 76th hypermarket. The second Lulu venture in the Kingdom was the opening of the Lulu Shopping Center at Rabwa, Exit 14, in Riyadh. The third was at Riyadh Avenue Mall in the capital’s Murabba district.

Lulu has always taken the lead in conducting interesting and popular sales campaigns. In the past, Lulu Alkhobar conducted the Saudi Agro Fest in association with the Ministry of Agriculture in order to promote locally grown

fruit and vegetables. This cam-paign proved to be very beneficial to local farmers.

Yusuffali M.A. is the driving force behind the success of Lulu. He ranks among the most suc-cessful NRI business personali-ties. Emke Group’s operational bases extend over the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Yemen, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Thailand, China, Hong Kong, Benin and Tanzania in addition to Saudi Arabia.

In recognition of his remark-able achievements in the world of business and industry, and his distinguished service in the field Saudi Commerce and Industry Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, center, with Lulu Managing Director Yusuffali M.A., right, being welcomed

by Indian Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, left, in New Delhi recently. (AN photo)

of social work, the president of India conferred on him Padma Shri in 2008.

Taking into consideration his valuable contributions in the ser-vice of overseas Indians and his outstanding achievements in busi-ness, he also has been conferred with the “Pravasi Bharatiya Samman,” the highest award given annually to non-resident Indians.

He is an elected member of the board of directors of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is also vice chairman of its trade committee. He has been honored with many international

awards in business and social work. Last year, Arabian Business Magazine elected him as the Top Influential Indian in the GCC.

While inaugurating Lulu’s project at Avenue Mall in Riyadh, Yusuffali M.A. said: “We are clear in our approach toward expansion … we have a target of reaching 100 stores, and we are on the right track to achieve that. I am very confident about the economic situation in Saudi Arabia and have full trust in the vision of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah. We are fully committed to march forward.”

Three talented directors lead the Lulu operations in Saudi Arabia.

Shehim Mohammed Unni is the Riyadh regional director; Abdul Basheer is the regional director in the Eastern Province; and Muhammed Mustafa is the regional director for the Western Region. All of them are confident of reaching new heights in the coming days and months.

“Customer and national goals always come first at Lulu,” they said. “We are providing job oppor-tunities to local youth … We will continue to recruit more nationals into our operations in different cat-egories, from frontline sales staff to technical and managerial posi-tions.”

Lulu is planning three more projects in Dammam, Jubail and Al-Hasa. In Riyadh, the Batha proj-ect is almost complete. Two more projects are coming up in Khurais and Hail. In the Western region, three projects are in the pipeline.

On the occasion of India’s Republic Day, the regional directors congratulated the entire Indian expatriate community and com-mended the growing Indo-Saudi relationship. “On the occasion of the Republic Day of India, we salute all the visionary leaders of Saudi Arabia and India for showing us the true meaning of peace, prosperity and harmony,” they said.Abdul Basheer Muhammed MustafaShehim Mohammed Unni

Thursday, January 26, 2012 india republic day12

IIS-Jubail redefines excellenceSIRAJ WAHAB | ARAB NEWS

JUBAIL: The International Indian School-Jubail, with 6,500 students, is the nucleus that binds the large and diverse Indian expatriate community in Jubail.

Founded in 1987 by a highly dedicated team of Indian professionals led by the late Rasheed-uz-Zafar of King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, the school has demonstrated outstanding performance every year since then. The school is all set to celebrate its silver jubilee in November this year.

The credit for the school’s success over the years goes to members and chairmen of previous managing committees, the cur-rent governing body led by Chairman Ahmad Khan, the hard-working teaching faculty led by Principal Syed Hameed, the many well-wishers of the school, and, of course, the brilliant students and their well-informed parents.

Since its inception, IIS-Jubail has always been in the limelight for both academic and cocurricular activities. “It started with a dozen students in 1987 and has now more than 6,500 students,” said Ahmad Khan. “Very soon this number is expected to reach 10,000.”

According to the chairman, the Saudi Ministry of Education, the Indian Embassy and the parent community have been the guiding forces since the school’s inception.

“They laid the road to progress and pros-perity for IIS-Jubail,” he said.

The Jubail school recently organized a very successful Cluster Meet and a mean-ingful conference of principals of all Indian schools in the Kingdom. Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao was the chief guest at the concluding function.

The ambassador appreciated the con-structive role being played by the principal, teachers and managing committee mem-bers of the school in shaping and grooming the leaders of tomorrow.

Rao congratulated Chairman Ahmad Khan, Principal Syed Hameed and his teaching faculty for having done a remark-able job. “What I witnessed in the cultural program in Jubail school was the youth, the energy and the confidence which symbol-izes the India of today …

“These are the elements which make us believe that we are going in the right direc-tion and that we have a bright future, our country has a bright future, our country-men have a bright future,” said Rao.

Outgoing Chairman Ibrahim Pottengal and the current chairman along with the active and constructive support of other esteemed members of the governing body have left no stone unturned for the aca-demic excellence of the school.

“The recent salary revision for teachers has had a positive effect in benefiting and motivating each and every member of the

school staff,” said the school chairman.The school’s English debate team once

again brought laurels by winning the recent inter-school competition. The school was proud of the fact that 15 students were among the toppers of the CBSE merit cer-tificate in English in senior secondary board. Debates, scientific and mathemati-cal models won prizes and attention from the prestigious Prince Mohammed bin Fahd University.

“The school follows modern education techniques and have highly professional teachers. They have made a smooth transi-tion from blackboard to white board to smartboard,” said Ahmad Khan. “We regu-larly hold development workshops for teachers with a view to implementing con-ducive learning atmosphere for all,” he said.

A separate building for senior girl stu-dents from the new academic session is going to add another feather in the school’s cap. “The managing committee is trying its level best and is firm to get a land on lease to have its own school building very soon,” said Ahmad Khan.

“Yes, there are challenges ahead of us, and our school is committed to facing them in the best possible way,” said the chairman. “We want to see our school reach new heights of excellence. Thanks to our excel-lent teachers and the parent community, we can reach this goal through dedication, hard work and a combined team effort.”

Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao addresses the 21st Annual Cluster Meet at the International Indian School in Jubail recently. He is flanked by Chairman Ahmad Khan, left, and Principal Syed Hameed. (AN photo)

DPS Riyadh expandsGHAZANFAR ALI KHAN | ARAB NEWS

RIYADH: Delhi Public School, Riyadh, is gearing up to shift to a new sprawling cam-pus in the capital city in the near future. “The new campus, for which negotiations are in the final stages, will be a perfect place for a student to learn and to be nurtured as corporate leaders of the future,” said Ibrahim Al-Quayid, chairman of the Darussalam International School, Riyadh, Wednesday, while congratulating all Indian nationals on the occasion of the Indian Republic Day.

Al-Quayid said: “DPS Riyadh, now in its 8th year, will move to its own spacious complex consisting of several academic blocks and administrative buildings.” He thanked the government, especially the Ministry of Education for their support and patronage to community schools.

He said the school management would retain the old building, which will be used as a school for IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) students. The IGCSE, he said, is now the world’s most popular interna-tional qualification for 14- to 16-year-old students. Al-Quayid also briefly disclosed plans to open three more schools in the Kingdom.

Nadeem Tarin, chairman of DPS Riyadh, said that he along with Al-Quayid have launched a 10-year ambitious plan under which three more schools with Indian school curriculum will be opened in the country.

Tarin, while lauding the efforts of Al-Quayid for bringing one of the best aca-demic institution of India to Saudi Arabia, said that the DPS has on its rolls about 2,000 students and with the new building becoming a reality, the school would be able to meet the growing requirements in a more efficient manner.”

Tarin said: “Our aim is to provide quality education with a particular stress on the all-round development of our students.”

Referring to the forthcoming annul day celebrations at DPS and Dunes schools, he pointed out that Indian TV and film actor

Kabir Bedi, who has acted in more than 60 films in Bollywood, is expected to be chief guest during the annual events at both schools next week.

Referring to the faculty development program at DPS school, Tarin said an American expert Anjum Malik, who is also the managing director of Alhambra-US Chamber of Commerce, will visit Saudi Arabia soon and hold a training program for DPS and Dunes teachers.

The objective, he said, is to improve the quality of education by training the teach-ers and sensitize teachers about new con-cepts in teaching and assessment methods. The training program will focus on the skills required for performing the role of competent and effective teacher, adminis-trator and mentor.

Tarin also said that the students and teachers of the DPS Riyadh benefited by the visits of cricket legends Mohammed Azharuddin and Kapil Dev in the recent past. Social activist Kiran Bedi also visited the school last year.

He spoke highly about the DPS faculty members, saying that each faculty member is a teacher, a scholar and an expert in his or her own field.

The faculty of DPS Riyadh consists of 175 full-time qualified teachers including sup-port staff.

“Therefore to assess the school’s perfor-mance only by its high academic scores is not sufficient, it is equally important for a school to be a place for happy children with a love for learning and sound value system, said Tarin.

He said that the team of teachers and support staff is led by two highly-qualified officials — Mairaj Mohammed Khan, prin-cipal, and Khurseed Shah Khan, adminis-trator.

Delhi Public School has come to be rec-ognized throughout the academic world as the best brand known for its progressive approach and commitment to excellence through well designed instructional pro-gram and flexible and unique internation-al school management systems.

Nadeem Tarin, chairman of DPS Riyadh, center, taking a tour of the school with Ibrahim Al-Quayid, chief of the Darussalam International School, right, in Riyadh recently. (AN photo)

Thursday, January 26, 2012 13india republic day

Western Auto takes Ashok Leyland to new heights

ARAB NEWS

RIYADH: Western Auto, Saudi Arabia’s leading quality transporta-tion solutions provider and a mem-ber of the ETA Star conglomerate, is the authorized dealer for Foton Commercial Vehicles in the Kingdom.

Beiqi Foton Motor Co. Ltd. is one of China’s largest automobile com-panies producing LCVs, MVCs, HVCs and buses. Ranked No. 43 in the top 500 most valuable Chinese brands, Foton has six production facilities in China employing over 27,000 people.

“It’s our pride and pleasure to launch one of the most trusted brands for Reliability and Value from China to the Gulf. This part-nership with Foton surely will offer discerning customers in the Kingdom the choice and economy. Enabled by a strong R&D, Foton vehicles ensures our customers, a hassle free long lasting perfor-mance,” Says Sadakathullah, resi-dent director at ETA Western Group.

A wide range of Foton commer-cial vehicles are available at Western Auto showrooms and are

supported by comprehensive Western Auto service centers that are state-of-the-art facilities ser-viced by technically competent and specially trained mechanics.

“Foton is durable, versatile and most of all, great value for money vehicles. With Foton, Western Auto is pleased to provide greater flexi-bility of choices to SME and com-mercial establishments in Saudi Arabia,” he added.

The data from China Association of Auto Manufacturers shows Foton’s production and sales vol-ume crossed over 800,000, obtain-ing the laurel of No. 1 sales volume among China’s commercial vehi-cles for the seventh time on a suc-cessive basis. Foton is not only the number one commercial vehicle manufacturer in China but also the commercial vehicle manufacturer with the largest sales volume in the world.

Such a large sales volume strongly indicates that Foton’s products receive wide recognition by users in China and around the world and favored by them at the same time. At present, Foton has established CKD factories in many

countries including Indonesia, Vietnam, Russia, Mexico, Pakistan, Turkey and Iran and established complete sales network and service outlets in countries and regions in Central Asia, West Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, CIS and Eastern Europe. The overseas expansion of Foton has extended over more than 100 countries and regions in the world.

As part of global development, Foton has established joint venture with Daimler and with Cummins US, to enable Foton’s automobile products to meet the demand of users around the world and provide powerful guarantee for Foton to implement its globalization strate-gy.

The core competence of an enterprise is greatly reflected in its R&D capability, i.e. the R&D capa-bility is the important sign of Foton enterprise competitiveness. By its strong R&D strength, Foton has rapidly grown into the world’s larg-est commercial vehicle segment and in the process of going global for Foton’s products, the indepen-dent R&D capability is playing a greater role.

Transportation giant introduces top commercial vehicle to KSA

Initiatives for overseas Indians — extraordinary steps by governmentARAB NEWS

JEDDAH: The Overseas Indian Citizenship (OCI) Scheme was formerly launched in January 2006 by amending the Citizenship Act, 1955 to facilitate lifelong

visa-free travel to India and cer-tain economic, educational and cultural benefits to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). As on June 30, 2011, a total number of 8,61,726 PIOs have been regis-tered as OCIs.

Voting Rights To NRIs: The Representation of Peoples Amendment Act 2010 has been passed which gives voting rights to overseas Indian passport holders. Notification dated Feb. 3, 2011 has been issued allowing overseas elec-

tors for their names to be included in the roll pertaining to their locality in which his place of resi-dence in India as mentioned in his passport is located. Overseas elec-tors are required to apply in the requisite form along with copies of

all the documents mentioned in the said form to the concerned registration officer directly or send the application to him by post. The rules allow self-attestation of doc-uments by the applicants.

To educate the intending emi-grants about the risks involved in irregular migration and the pre-cautions to be taken while seeking overseas employment and to pro-vide need based information to overseas emigrants an Overseas

Workers Resource Center (OWRC) — a toll free 24x7 helpline has been set up. The helpline provides information within India at 100 11 1900. It is also accessible for infor-mation seekers from UAE at 8000911913.

SIRAJ WAHAB | ARAB NEWS

DAMMAM: Ashok Leyland’s state-of-the-art vehicles have in a short span of time created a niche for themselves in Saudi Arabia. Their exclusive distributor in the Kingdom is Western Auto, the well-known and well-established quali-ty transport solutions provider in Saudi Arabia.

The popularity of the brand can be gauged from the fact that so far Western Auto has already delivered more than 1,500 Ashok Leyland buses and coaches to its customers in the Kingdom.

Western Auto has set-up full-fledged showrooms and workshops in Dammam, Riyadh, Jubail and Jeddah where a wide variety of Ashok Leyland vehicles are on dis-play and for sale at highly com-petitive prices.

The showrooms and workshops are staffed by very efficient and welcoming staff and well-trained technicians to support, assist and service the vehicles. They are gen-erously supplied with spare parts.

The Ashok Leyland range con-sists of air-conditioned buses and nonair-conditioned buses. There is Falcon series with 66/77/83 and 56 seats. The Eagle mini-bus series is equipped with 28/32/36 seats.

Western Auto is a member of ETA Star conglomerate, and is headquartered in Dubai, while

Ashok Leyland is one of the largest manufacturers of buses and coaches in the world.

Ashok Leyland, a multibillion-dollar conglomerate founded in 1914, is the flagship brand of the Hinduja Group. It is a leading manufacturer of commercial vehi-cles in India. During 2010-11, it had a turnover of $2.5 billion. With seven manufacturing units located at Chennai, Hosur, Alwar, Bhandara and Pantnagar (Uttarakhand), the company has a production capacity of 150,000 vehicles.

Ashok Leyland has associate companies in the Czech Republic and the UAE, and a joint venture in Sri Lanka. It exports to more than 40 countries. It has more than 40,000 employees.

The company has strived and established a tradition of techno-logical leadership and strong rep-utation for product reliability … It is the first Indian auto company to receive BS 7799 certification for information security management system.

The Ashok Leyland range spans from goods transport, passenger transport, special application and diesel engines for industrial and marine applications. Research and development collaborations with Hino Motors, AVL ZF and IRIZAR provide contemporary aggregates to the Ashok Leyland vehicles to

maintain technological superiori-ty.

“Ashok Leyland has established itself as the primary choice for commercial transport not only at the construction sites but also in the school, staff transportation segments,” said a top manager at Western Auto.

Western Auto is primarily into trading of automobiles and han-dles a diverse portfolio of car marques, catering to customer requirements worldwide. In a

short span, the group has success-fully diversified into dealership development, retail operations, and transport and logistics solu-tions.

Western Auto is also the agent for Foton and CMC brands of com-mercial vehicles in the Kingdom.

To arrange a meeting with a representative or for a familiariza-tion trip onboard Ashok Leyland vehicles in the Kingdom, please call 03-810 0077 or 0540280099 or write to srini@westernauto.com.sa

Thursday, January 26, 2012 india republic day14

Eram Group Managing Director Siddeek Ahmed

IISD creates waves with all-round performanceSIRAJ WAHAB | ARAB NEWS

DAMMAM: The International Indian School in Dammam has come a long way from its less than impres-sive beginnings in 1982. Then it had only 250 students and 15 teachers in a few portacabins.

Today, it has become two large campuses in Dammam’s Al-Raka district with 16,000 students and 800 teachers. It is one of the largest schools in the region.

Managing Committee Chairman John Thomas, Principal E.K. Mohammad Shaffe, Girls Section Principal In charge Lt. Col. J.A.

Rocque, Registrar Gangesh Tewari and every member of the teaching and managing team have contin-ued the school’s long tradition of providing good education to chil-dren of Indian expatriates in the Eastern Province.

The school recently commemo-rated its 29th Foundation Day with Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao the chief guest.

Thomas, for whom this is the seventh consecutive year in the governing body, says the Dammam school has a unique standing among the expatriate community institution in the Kingdom in both scholastic and non-scholastic activities.

“I acknowledge the zealous efforts put in by the previous and current managing committee members for the school’s transfor-mation from a tiny establishment into a large institution,” he told Arab News.

Thomas paid fulsome tributes to two of the school’s most important founders. “They dedicated a major part of their lives to the develop-ment of this school; one was Dr. Rasheed-uz-Zafar and the other was M.K. Abdullappa,” he said.

Both worked for the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Dhahran.

“We have been celebrating our Foundation Day for the last 29 years and we have never forgotten those two visionaries who laid a solid foundation between 1983 and 1994,” he added.

Thomas said the performance of IISD students is extremely remark-able both on the academic front and in extracurricular activities. “Every year we are proving that we

are the best on both fronts, not just in the Kingdom but also in the entire Gulf,” he said. “This is all due to our dedicated teachers, interested and informed parents and the hard work of our brilliant students.”

The chairman said he felt proud of the fact that his institution is the first international school in the Kingdom to introduce the new international curriculum by the

International Indian School-Dammam Managing Committee Chairman John Thomas, right, with Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao at the Foundation Day ceremony. (AN photo)

IISD Principal E.K. Mohammad Shaffe

Central Board of Secondary Education. “Our classrooms are well-equipped with multimedia-based educational programs for this new CBSE curriculum,” he said.

Shaffe points out that the school has a special child care section which tends to children with special needs. “Seven professionally trained teachers are currently taking care of 40 differently-abled children; we have created special infrastructure for these children.”

The school has been in the news for achieving excellent academic performances. In March 2011 Class X examinations, 83 students obtained A1 Grades and 10 GPA in all five subjects. In Class XII, March 2011 examinations, Midhun Krishna stood first in the Kingdom with 96.6 percent.

“Twenty-six of our students ranked in the top 0.1 percent on

the basis of overall results of Class XII in India and abroad,” said the principal. “They were recognized by the Ministry of Human Resource Development with an annual scholarship of Rs.80,000 for five years of higher education in pure sciences.”

Two of the school’s teachers are the proud recipients of the presti-gious National Best Teacher Award. Mariyu Sageer, headmis-tress, Boys Middle Section, received the Best Teacher Award from the CBSE in 2000 and Principal Shaffe received the National Best Teacher Award from the Indian president in 2010.

“The school is steadfastly pursu-ing its noble mission of molding young Indians who are away from their motherland,” said Thomas. “We will always remember the ser-vices of those great Indians who made this dream possible.”

With 9,000 employees, Eram Group charts new course

SIRAJ WAHAB | ARAB NEWS

 DAMMAM: Eram Group is a leading business conglomerate with well-entrenched business presence across the world and especially in Saudi Arabia. Its chairman and managing director is 44-year-old Indian businessman Siddeek Ahmed Haji Panamtharayil.

The group was founded in the mid-1980s and thanks largely to Alkhobar-based Siddeek Ahmed’s leadership, it has in recent years achieved an exponential growth.

Eram’s activities span a wide

range of industrial verticals, includ-ing oil and gas, petrochemicals, power, mining, water, automotive, health care, travel and tourism, information technology and elec-tronics.

The group has a highly special-ized infrastructure and enviable talent house conducting diversi-fied business activities in the vibrant global market. It has a global presence with offices in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, India, Korea, Turkey, Italy and the UK.

Eram’s phenomenal growth is

guided by its corporate values — teamwork, entrepreneurship, cus-tomer loyalty and social commit-ment. The group considers its most valuable asset to be the 9,000 employees that work for it in 10 countries. Eram offers a unique work culture that encourages cre-ativity, openness and teamwork.

Some of the group’s companies have received global acclamation and recognition. ITL World, which is the travel management compa-ny, is now world’s 13th largest travel network. Eram Scientific, which is the electronics research

and development division of the group, has developed one of world’s cheapest and award-win-ning eco-friendly electronic public toilet called Delight.

Eram Group has a well-orga-nized corporate social responsibili-ty (CSR) team that takes care of its charitable activities and endow-ments. The group’s commitment to sustainability and philanthropy is not limited to CSR activities. Eram continues to invest in new technol-ogies and businesses that promote sustainability and ease common man’s lives.

Apart from strengthening exist-ing capabilities and expertise, Eram is all set to make a foray into the field of education and defense industry.

Eram Group chief Siddeek Ahmed heads a number of compa-nies and organizations. Among oth-ers, he is the director of Infrastructure Kerala Ltd. (INKEL); Al-Barakah Financial Services Ltd, Kerala; Kerala State Industrial Development Corp. Ltd. (KSIDC); RMS Avionics Private Ltd. Bangalore, India, etc.

Siddeek Ahmed is also the man-aging director of many industrial and tourism companies and health care facilities including Eram Hi-Tech Engineering India (P) Ltd, Tamil Nadu; Eram Clothing (P) Ltd, Tamil Nadu; Eram Property Network (P) Ltd, Tamil Nadu; ITL Motors (P) Ltd, Kerala; Green Court Builders & Developers (P) Ltd, Kerala; Hydrofit Arabian Equipment Co., Jubail; ITL Contracting, Manama, Bahrain; Idealink Holding Co. Ltd., Manama, Bahrain; Eram Engineering Co., Doha, Qatar; Dar-as-Sihha Dispensary, Dammam; Shifa Rahima Dispensary, Ras Tanura; Idealink Technology Trading Est., Alkhobar; Eram International, London; and Eram Aluminum, Alkhobar.

Thursday, January 26, 2012 15 india republic day

Multifaceted ties on the upswing

(Continued from Page 10)Meanwhile exports to Saudi

Arabia have increased from $2590.77 million in 2006-07 to $5,227.19 million in 2010-11.

Since the Kingdom is the fastest growing economy in the Middle East offering investment opportuni-ties, a large number of Indian com-panies have invested in the Kingdom independently as well as in joint ventures with Saudi part-ners in different sectors such as management and consultancy ser-vices, constructions projects, tele-communications, information technology, pharmaceuticals etc.

There are also Indo-Saudi joint ventures, in India, in the areas of designing, consultancy, financial services and software development. India has now become the fourth largest trade partner of Saudi Arabia.

We still feel that there are major opportunities for Indian companies in almost all sectors of Saudi econ-omy, especially, in information technologies, biotechnology, phar-maceuticals, oil & gas, construction activities and higher and technical education.

The recent visit of Tawfiq Al-Rabia, Saudi Arabia’s Minister for Commerce and Industry to New Delhi along with a large delegation and the meetings of the Indo-Saudi Arabia Joint Commission have once again proven the time-tested friend-ship between the two countries and has also spread a message of the huge potential for enhancing the commercial engagements between the two countries.

Cooperation in the area of edu-cation and culture is also increas-ing between the two countries. Memorandum of Understandings for joint research programs were

signed between the Indian and Saudi universities. Agreements have also been signed between King Abdul Aziz Foundation for Research and Archives and India-Arab Cultural Centre of Jamia Millia Islamia to translate important books written in Arabic on the his-tory and culture of the Kingdom into Indian languages and books written in Indian languages on Arabian Peninsula, its traditions, culture, civilization and history into Arabic.

Cooperation in the field of man-power is an important dimension of the Indo-Saudi relationship.

More than two million Indians, which is the largest among the for-eign communities, are at present working in the Kingdom and have contributed a lot to the growth and development of the host country with their sense of dedication, com-mitment and hard work, a fact generously acknowledged by the Saudi leadership and local authori-ties.

It is their contribution that pro-vides a substantial contemporary value to the age-old relations between the two countries.

I hope the Indian community would continue to work with the same commitment and dedication which would further enhance their image as well as the image of their country in the Kingdom and help further strengthening the relations between the two countries.

We remain committed to extend-ing our best possible services to the Indian community residing in the Western Region of the Kingdom.

Jai Hind

Faiz Ahmad Kidwai(Consul General of India)

Role of Indian expatriates under spotlight(Continued from Page 10)Saudi Arabia provides almost a

quarter of India’s crude imports.The progress of bilateral invest-

ment has been no less impressive. There has been an upsurge in Indian investments in the Kingdom, especially after the signing of the Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement and Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement. Indian investments in Saudi Arabia have exceeded $1.6 billion in over 350 projects covering a wide spectrum of sectors including management and consultancy services, construction

projects, telecommunications, information technology, pharma-ceuticals, etc. Several Indian com-panies have established collabora-tions with Saudi companies and are working in the Kingdom in areas of designing, consultancy, financial services and software development.

There are a number of Indo-Saudi joint ventures or Saudi owned companies in India, in diverse fields such as paper manufacture, chemi-cals, computer software, granite processing, industrial products and machinery, cement, metallurgical industries, etc. There is considerable

scope for diversification and further strengthening of our economic ties especially in the field of investments. Saudi investments in India stand at $33.63 million from April 2000 to October 2011. There are heartening signs of Saudi investors looking seri-ously in raising the levels of invest-ment in India, including in sectors like infrastructure and real estate.

During last couple of years, a large number of Indian trade and industry delegations have visited Saudi Arabia to explore the oppor-tunities for long-term partnerships and cooperation, including joint

ventures. These delegations received a warm and enthusiastic response from the Saudi business communi-ty. The number of Saudi business-men and delegations visiting India has also grown substantially, indi-cating growing interest in emerging business opportunities in India. Indian and Saudi companies regu-larly take part in trade fairs in each other’s countries. The Joint Business Councils representing the business sectors of each country have been meeting both regularly and fre-quently. In fact the last meeting in New Delhi, on the sidelines of the

Joint Commission Meeting, was held in a span of less than a year.

The phase that we have entered is full of promise and potential and I am sure that as we go along, old areas and relationships will be strengthened while new opportuni-ties and avenues in all sectors will be created and all this can only augur well for the all round peace, stability and wellbeing of our two peoples.

Jai Hind

Hamid Ali Rao(Indian Ambassador)

Dunes School creates good impact SIRAJ WAHAB | RAB NEWS

ALKHOBAR: Dunes International School, located on Old Airport Road between Dammam and Alkhobar, made a momentous beginning under the initiative and leadership of prominent Saudi academic Ibrahim H. Al-Quayid.

While Al-Quayid is the chairman of the school’s board of directors, Indian businessman and educa-tionist Nadeem Tarin is the manag-ing director.

Tarin has promoted a number of schools globally. According to him, the mission of Dunes is “to enhance the skills of students to the highest level of competence … making the world an emancipated and enlight-ened place.”

In Principal D. Manon, the school has a highly experienced education-ist who has had the distinctions of serving as principal of Army School in Jammu and Singhania School in Churu, Rajasthan. Well-known aca-demic S.U. Rahman is the honorary director of the school; seasoned

management expert Amjad Khan, who holds a management degree from Aligarh Muslim University, is director of operations and finance, while Awad Al-Qahtani is director.

Dunes School takes pride in its excellent advisory board which comprises Shomie Das, former prin-cipal of The Doon School; Nighat

Shamsi, experienced academic trainer; Linda Amin, speaker coordi-nator for TARA and associated with National Association for the Education of Young Children; and Anna Marie Amudi, the English Department supervisor at Dhahran Ahliyya School. Kiran Bedi, the first and the highest-ranking woman

police officer in India, inaugurated the school on Feb. 3 last year. Akhira Suzuki, the 2010 Nobel Laureate, presided over the investiture cere-mony. The school brings the best available educational practices, and blends them with the national cur-riculum with time-tested values and ethics. It believes in and aims at “Total Quality Education” which ensures developing children who make “excellence in all endeavors” a habit and a way of life.

At Dunes, the emphasis is more on understanding a concept rather than simple memorization of facts, rules and formulae. The school is committed to grooming every child into a role model for the society of tomorrow by providing the children with holistic education for the growth of mind and body.

The school is the first in the Kingdom to have enabled TeachNext, which is multimedia-based tailor-made content soft-ware, with a simple teacher-orient-ed interface. Its audio-visual con-tent engages the students’ atten-

tion and makes the classroom fun, interesting and interactive.

Besides following the widely acknowledged national CBSE cur-riculum, the school also plans to seek affiliation with IGCSE for stu-dents of other nationalities within the framework of the rules and reg-ulations of the Saudi Ministry of Education.

The school has world-class facili-ties that match the stature of an international school anywhere in the world. From advanced class-rooms to comfortable buses, Dunes School is equipped with every facil-ity that it needs to deliver world-class education. The campus is planned keeping in mind the needs of the children and their future. More than 18,000 sq. meters of land has been transformed into a learn-er’s paradise.

The new academic year will com-mence from March 27, 2012 and the admissions for the academic year 2012-2013 are in progress from nursery to Grade VIII. For details, log on to www.dunesschool.org

Dunes International School Managing Director Nadeem Tarin honors a young student at the recent sports day event. Also seen is Dunes School Principal D. Manon. (AN photo)