PRESIDENT OF INDIA UNVEILS BUST OF MAHATMA GANDHI AT THE - 22nd July 2026 - Presidents Secretariat - Gazette Notification PDF

Executive Summary On July 22, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of the City of Skopje, North Macedonia, as part of a three-nation visit. The event highlighted the universal relevance of truth and non-violence in resolving modern global conflicts and served to strengthen bilateral ties between India and North Macedonia. The President is scheduled to depart for Bucharest, Romania, on July 23, 2026, for the final leg of her tour.

Key Points / Main Content

Ceremonial Unveiling and Symbolism

• President Droupadi Murmu and North Macedonian President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova jointly unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Skopje.
• The bust is established as a lasting symbol of friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to peace and humanity.
• Dignitaries in attendance included the Mayor of Skopje, India's Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and two Members of Parliament.

Core Message of the Presidential Address

• Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of truth and non-violence are described not as signs of weakness, but as powerful tools for securing justice and dignity.
• Gandhiji’s faith in dialogue and compassion is presented as profoundly relevant for addressing contemporary global intolerance and division.
• The message encourages individuals to reject hatred, resolve differences peacefully, and serve society with empathy.

Commemoration of Mother Teresa

• The two Presidents visited the Memorial of Mother Teresa in Skopje, the city of her birth.
• The visit highlighted Mother Teresa’s journey from Skopje to India and her 1980 Bharat Ratna award for exceptional humanitarian work.

Impact Analysis

Government of India Impact The visit strengthens diplomatic and cultural relations with North Macedonia through high-level engagement and shared historical symbols. Action Required The accompanying delegation must facilitate the President's scheduled departure for Bucharest, Romania, on July 23, 2026.

Government of North Macedonia and City of Skopje Impact The local museum now hosts a significant cultural landmark representing international friendship and the values of non-violence. Action Required Local authorities, including the Mayor of Skopje, are responsible for the preservation of the bust and the continued honoring of the shared legacy of figures like Mother Teresa.

Global Society / Humanity Impact The document presents Gandhi’s message as a universal framework for resolving conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence. Action Required The President calls upon people to adopt empathy and courage to reject hatred and resolve differences through dialogue.