Singapore’s Honorary Citizen Award for Tarun Das

On January 17, 2025, Tarun Das received the Honorary Citizen Award from President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore. This prestigious recognition is awarded for contributions to Singapore‘s growth and development by non-Singaporeans. Tarun Das is only the second Indian to receive this honour, following the late Ratan Tata.

About the Honorary Citizen Award

The Honorary Citizen Award was established in 2003. It aims to acknowledge the contributions of non-Singaporeans in various fields. These include business, science and technology, education, health, arts and culture, and community services. The award marks the importance of international collaboration in Singapore’s development.

Tarun Das’s Contributions

Tarun Das has played a very important role in encouraging India-Singapore relations. He served as the director general of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). In 1993, he led a delegation of Indian industrialists to Singapore, aligning with India’s “Look East” policy. His efforts have enhanced bilateral trade and investment.

Significance of the Award

The award signifies Singapore’s appreciation for foreign individuals who have made impactful contributions. It encourages international partnerships and recognises the role of global citizens in local development. The award also strengthens diplomatic ties between Singapore and India.

Official Visit of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam

President Shanmugaratnam’s visit to India included meetings with key political figures. He met with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit aimed to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including trade and education.

Upcoming Activities in India

Following his meetings in New Delhi, President Shanmugaratnam plans to visit Odisha. This state has emerged as a focal point for Singapore’s investments in India. He will tour the World Skills Centre and a vaccine manufacturing unit by Bharat Biotech. These visits highlight Singapore’s commitment to collaboration in education and health.

Delegation Accompanying the President

The President is accompanied by business delegation. This includes government ministers and members of parliament. Their presence puts stress on the importance of trade relations between Singapore and India.

Impact on India-Singapore Relations

The awarding of the Honorary Citizen Award to Tarun Das reflects the deepening ties between India and Singapore. It showcases Singapore’s recognition of India’s growing influence in the region. This relationship is expected to expand in various sectors, benefiting both nations.

Future Prospects

As India and Singapore continue to strengthen their partnership, both countries stand to gain from collaborative efforts. The emphasis on education, technology, and health will likely shape future engagements. This is crucial for mutual growth and development in the region.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of non-Singaporeans in Singapore’s economic development.
2. What are the implications of the “Look East” policy for India’s foreign relations? Explain.
3. Comment on the significance of international awards in encouraging diplomatic relations.
4. What is the role of business delegations in strengthening bilateral trade? Illustrate with examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of non-Singaporeans in Singapore’s economic development.

1. Non-Singaporeans contribute to various sectors, enhancing innovation and competitiveness.
2. The Honorary Citizen Award recognizes exceptional contributions, promoting a culture of inclusivity.
3. Foreign talent brings diverse perspectives, encouraging collaboration and knowledge exchange.
4. Many non-Singaporeans have played key roles in business, technology, and education, driving growth.
5. International partnerships established by non-Singaporeans boost Singapore’s global standing and economic resilience.

2. What are the implications of the “Look East” policy for India’s foreign relations? Explain.

1. The policy encourages deeper economic ties between India and Southeast Asian nations, enhancing trade and investment.
2. It promotes cultural exchange and people-to-people connections, strengthening diplomatic relations.
3. Encourages Indian businesses to explore opportunities in emerging markets, diversifying economic partnerships.
4. Enhances India’s strategic presence in the Asia-Pacific region, counterbalancing influences of other powers.
5. Supports regional stability and cooperation on issues like security, trade, and environmental challenges.

3. Comment on the significance of international awards in encouraging diplomatic relations.

1. International awards recognize and honor contributions, encouraging goodwill between nations.
2. They highlight the importance of collaboration and shared goals in global development.
3. Such awards can enhance a country’s soft power, improving its image on the world stage.
4. They create platforms for dialogue and partnership, paving the way for future collaborations.
5. Recognition through awards can lead to increased investments and trade relations between nations.

4. What is the role of business delegations in strengthening bilateral trade? Illustrate with examples.

1. Business delegations facilitate networking opportunities, connecting companies across borders.
2. They help identify and explore new markets, driving foreign direct investment (FDI).
3. Delegations often lead to trade agreements, enhancing economic cooperation (e.g., India-Singapore CECA).
4. They showcase a country’s strengths, attracting interest from potential investors and partners.
5. Examples include Tarun Das’s delegation in 1993, which strengthened India-Singapore trade relations.