Strengthening the historical and cultural bonds between India and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has unveiled an ambitious seven-point agenda aimed at fostering deeper collaboration and driving development in the region.
The announcement came during the Second India-CARICOM Summit, held on Wednesday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, Guyana—a historic moment marking the first time the summit was hosted in a CARICOM Member State. Prime Minister Modi’s visit, the first by an Indian premier to Guyana in 56 years, highlights India’s evolving role as a pivotal development partner on the global stage.
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Capacity Building: Expanding Horizons
A cornerstone of the seven-point plan is capacity building. Prime Minister Modi revealed India’s intention to expand its Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC), offering an additional 1,000 scholarships to CARICOM participants over the next five years. These scholarships aim to equip individuals with technical expertise and professional skills, fostering regional growth.
He also announced plans to scale up the Technical Development Centre in Belize, making it a resource for all CARICOM nations. Furthermore, India pledged to establish a forensic center for CARICOM and proposed a customized online platform modeled after India’s Integrated Government Online Training (iGOT) portal. This platform would offer targeted training in technology, law, and education to civil servants across the Caribbean.
“As a vibrant democracy, India stands ready to collaborate with CARICOM nations, even offering training programs for parliamentarians,” said Prime Minister Modi.
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Technology and Agriculture: A Vision for Transformation
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the transformative potential of technology in agriculture. By introducing innovations such as soil testing and drones, India seeks to empower CARICOM nations to advance their food security goals.
These proposals are part of a broader strategy to address critical areas like renewable energy, healthcare, and trade, all designed to align with CARICOM’s priorities.
Maritime Opportunities and Regional Connectivity
Recognizing the Caribbean’s unique geography, India has committed to strengthening the region’s maritime sector. The offer to supply passenger and cargo ferries aims to enhance transportation and trade, while also supporting hydrography and maritime domain mapping.
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Cultural Ties: Cricket and Female Empowerment
Acknowledging the shared love for cricket, Modi spotlighted the sport as a cultural bridge between India and CARICOM. In an inspiring gesture, India proposed specialized training for 11 female cricketers from each CARICOM nation, blending athletic development with female empowerment.
A Growing Global Advocate for the Developing World
CARICOM leaders lauded India’s unwavering support for the Global South. Guyanese President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in international forums, including India’s recent presidency of the G20 and its significant role in BRICS.
“Your steadfast advocacy for the aspirations of the developing world, from climate change to sustainable development, is a testament to your commitment to global equity,” President Ali remarked.
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A Milestone Visit
Prime Minister Modi’s three-day state visit to Guyana underscores India’s deepening ties with the Caribbean. As part of the trip, he is set to address a special sitting of Guyana’s National Assembly—a historic moment in the bilateral relationship.
India’s tailored approach to CARICOM’s development priorities reflects a shared vision for progress. “In every pillar of our cooperation, your needs and priorities remain at the center. That is the core principle of our partnership,” Prime Minister Modi affirmed.
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