The Duke of Edinburgh’s journey to India holds immense significance as it aims to honour the shared ties between the UK and India while advocating for the benefits of non-formal education. Buckingham Palace revealed that Prince Edward is set to visit Mumbai and Delhi to endorse The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. The royal visit, spanning from Sunday to Tuesday, will involve interactions with young individuals engaged in the award, as well as meetings with Indian education leaders, business figures, and philanthropists. The agenda includes participation in events that highlight common interests in sports and the arts between the two nations, focusing on their role in nurturing young people towards realising their maximum potential, according to Buckingham Palace. This visit marks Edward’s return to India after his prior trip in February 2018, with the royal visit strengthening the bilateral ties that have been nurtured over the years.
Furthermore, Edward’s upcoming visit to India is a pivotal moment that underscores the collaborative efforts between the UK and India in addressing global challenges, as stated by Lindy Cameron, British high commissioner to India. Cameron emphasized the crucial role played by the partnership in offering solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. The visit serves as a testament to the enduring connections between the two countries, with over 1.7 million members of the Indian diaspora residing in the UK. The National Director of the International Award for Young People in India, Kapil Bhalla, expressed deep gratitude for Prince Edward’s visit, highlighting the impact of the International Award in empowering the youth of India. The framework, known as The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in certain regions including India, offers non-formal education and learning opportunities to individuals aged 14-24, with over 150,000 students benefitting from it across various educational institutions since its inception in India in 1962.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, established by Prince Philip in 1956, plays a crucial role in aiding young individuals in building confidence and acquiring essential life skills to achieve their full potential. Edward’s visit not only underscores the importance of international collaborations in education but also symbolises the commitment to inspiring youth globally. This visit is a significant milestone in acknowledging the transformative impact of initiatives like The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow. The Royal Highness’s visit to India exemplifies the enduring bilateral relations that continue to flourish, fostering cultural exchanges and mutual cooperation between the UK and India.
In conclusion, the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit to India serves as a beacon of the strong bond shared between the UK and India, highlighting the value of promoting non-formal education and empowering young individuals worldwide. As the visit unfolds, it showcases the commitment of both nations towards nurturing future generations and fostering collaboration in addressing global challenges. The royal visit not only celebrates the existing ties but also paves the way for further initiatives aimed at creating a brighter future for youth across borders.