MORE THAN 300 Indians living in Rwanda, at the weekend gathered at UTEXRWA grounds in Kigali for a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate India’s 64th Republic Day.The day is celebrated annually on January 26, to commemorate the date and moment when the Constitution of India came into effect.Although India attained independence on August 15, 1947, it did not have a permanent constitution of its own and instead was functioning under the laws enacted and implemented by the British. After many amendments, the Constitution was approved and adopted on January 26, 1950. Organised by Indian Association of Rwanda (INAR), the event started with Umuganda community service. The chairman of the association, Joseph Sebastian, hoisted the national flag after singing the national anthems of Rwanda and India and later on read out the Indian President’s speech addressed to the nation on the eve of the Republic Day.Sebastian encouraged Indians to join INAR and also to contribute to Agaciro Development fund before acknowledging Rwanda’s development progress that has facilitated their stay in the country."We must follow and respect the laws of this country and ensure that we become role models in each sector, including participating in Umuganda community work, which should encompass renovating houses for vulnerable people,” Sebastian saidINAR provides a common identity to the Indian community in Rwanda through the promotion of unity, friendship and goodwill, mutual understanding and cooperation.He thanked government for fostering a conducive and friendly environment for foreigners to live in and carry out their businesses.More than 1,500 Indians living in Rwanda are involved in all kinds of business that include; industries, education, construction, infrastructure, ICT and telecommunication."There are more investors expected mainly in business,” he explained.The INAR Chairman urged the Indian community to preserve the cleanliness of the country and work with the Rwandan community for development.