Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala on Monday joined the country in observing a day of State Mourning following the demise of Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar.
The observance holds special significance for Kerala due to its deep social and economic ties with Qatar, where a large number of Malayali expatriates live and work across various sectors.
National Flag Flown at Half-Mast Across Kerala
Following directions from the Government of India, the Kerala government instructed all District Collectors to ensure that the National Flag was flown at half-mast at government buildings and institutions where it is regularly displayed.
Collectors were also directed to inform government offices under their jurisdiction about the mourning period and ensure compliance with the Flag Code of India.
No official entertainment programmes will be held during the mourning period as a mark of respect to the former Qatari leader.
Strong Kerala-Qatar Connection
The State Mourning has a special emotional significance in Kerala due to the strong presence of the state’s expatriate community in Qatar.
Thousands of Malayali families have close links with the Gulf nation, with people working in sectors including:
- Healthcare
- Engineering
- Education
- Construction
- Hospitality
- Finance
Remittances sent by expatriates from Qatar continue to contribute significantly to Kerala’s economy and support household incomes.
Sheikh Hamad’s Legacy in Qatar’s Growth
Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani is remembered for leading Qatar through a period of rapid economic transformation, particularly through the development of its natural gas resources.
During his leadership, Qatar expanded its global presence in areas including diplomacy, education, investment and sports. His vision also contributed to Qatar’s emergence as an international hub and its successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
India-Qatar Relations
India and Qatar share strong relations in areas including trade, energy cooperation and investment. The large Indian expatriate population in Qatar has played an important role in strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries.
With Kerala accounting for a significant share of the Indian diaspora in Qatar, the mourning observance reflected the close and longstanding relationship between Kerala, India and the Gulf nation.