Image by India High Commission in Singapore

The High Commission of India in Singapore hosted a reception on 27 January 2026 to celebrate the 77th Republic Day of India, bringing together representatives from government, business, media, academia, and the Indian community. The occasion was graced by Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information, as Guest of Honour. The event also welcomed Singapore Members of Parliament Dr Charlene Chen and Mr Foo Cexiang, alongside Singaporean friends and members of the Indian community, and featured Indian traditional dance performances.

Image by India High Commission in Singapore

Addressing the event, Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India in Singapore, highlighted the breadth of bilateral engagement between the two countries. He said, “There are several other important international activities covering the entire time of India–Singapore cooperation. During the visit, we adopted the Overlooking Roadmap for the India–Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Plan, which will facilitate bilateral engagements across eight priority areas including economic cooperation, digitalisation, social equity, connectivity, healthcare, defence, security and international relations.”

Image by India High Commission in Singapore

Dr Ambule further noted that “the overall cooperation, underpinned by the 25-year agreement and increasing international growth, remains the backdrop of the India–Singapore partnership,” adding that efforts are under way to establish the Green and Digital Strategic Plan for India–Singapore cooperation. He also highlighted collaboration in advanced sectors, stating that agreements have been signed for ongoing cooperation in the space sector, with further engagements planned in Singapore next year, and emphasised Singapore’s role as a key partner in establishing a national centre for excellence in engineering for advanced manufacturing in India.

Highlighting the importance of societal links, Dr Ambule said that “people-to-people, cultural and community exchanges have been a large part of India–Singapore relations,” noting initiatives under the Singapore International Celebration that showcased Indian food, plants, and cultural performances through collaboration with local institutions. He also underscored ongoing engagement with the Indian community, including outreach to high-tech investors and the medical community.

In her remarks, Minister Teo highlighted India’s rapid progress, stating, “India has made remarkable strides in developing economies. In less than a fifth of its life, India built one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and is now at the forefront of technology.” She added, “Our bilateral relationship has grown expansive in the years of formation, underpinned by regular, high-level exchanges, institutional cooperation and strong people-to-people ties, with bilateral trade more than doubling since 2005.” Emphasising future opportunities, she noted that “two of the world’s fastest-growing regions have much to benefit from greater cooperation,” and called for deeper collaboration in trade, connectivity, digital innovation, and people-to-people initiatives.

Happy 77th Republic Day!