'US To Return More Than 100 Antiques to India,' Says Prime Minister Modi

Since 2014, a total of 251 antiquities have been brought back to India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Indian diaspora on his recent State-visit to the US.

(Photo: PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the US government's decision to return more than 100 stolen antiquities to India during his address to the Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Center during his state visit to the United States.

The Prime Minister concluded his three-day-long trip with an interaction with the Indian diaspora at Ronald Reagan Center in Washington DC.

"I am happy that the American government has decided to return more than 100 antiquities of India that were stolen from us. These antiquities had reached the international markets. I express my gratitude to the American government for this."

PM Modi during his address at the Ronald Reagan Center

He added that these antiquities had ended up in the international market through questionable paths, but "America's decision to return them to India shows the emotional bond between the two nations."

A government release highlighted the efforts to bring back Indian antiquities from several parts of the world. Since 2014, 251 antiquities have been brought back to India.

"Over centuries, innumerable priceless artefacts, some with deep cultural and religious significance, had been stolen and smuggled abroad. The government adopted a proactive approach to 'bringing back Indian artefacts and cultural heritage."

Government release