Indian immigrants contributed to Guyana's all-round development - PPP Stabroek News May 7, 1999 Guyana is indebted to the hundreds of thousands of Indian immigrants who experienced the humiliation and oppression that were characteristic of the indentureship scheme. So says the People's Progressive Party (PPP) in a message to mark the 161st anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Guyana, celebrated on Wednesday. Saluting the contribution of Indians to the all-round development of Guyana, the PPP said: "Our country's history is replete with examples of descendants of Indian indentured servants who have [made], and continue to make sterling contribution in the spheres of agriculture, business, politics, academia, culture, among other areas. While recognising the contributions of Amerindians, Africans, Portuguese and Chinese, it is opportune that, on this day, "we acknowledge the significant roles played by Indians in the social and economic progress of our nation and very importantly, in the bitter struggle for freedom from our colonial masters and later, for the restoration of democracy," the message added. Another outstanding contribution of Indians, the PPP states, is in the area of culture. "Indians have brought with them a way of life that has [enriched] our multi-culturalism." Even their set of beliefs has imparted certain values such as hard work, tolerance, sharing and a commitment to living in brotherhood. The party says, "we have reached an important crossroad in the life of our nation. As we enter the new millennium, the task is for Indians and other groups to recognise that our destiny is common. The history of our nation has shown that it was only when all ethnic groups worked together, with a common agenda, was real progress achieved", the message read. One of Guyana's most prized assets is its multi-ethnic and multi-cultural make-up. The PPP says that the challenge for all Guyanese is to build unity in diversity with respect, understanding and tolerance being underlying principles. The PPP urged the nation to be inspired by the contribution of Indians, as "we recommit ourselves to work toward a progressive, prosperous and peaceful Guyana."