The National Federation Party says the contribution of the Girmitiyas to the social, economic and political advancement of Fiji as well as the development of the sugar industry into the economic backbone for more than 100 years is historical and immeasurable.
While paying tribute to the Girmitiyas on the 142nd anniversary of the arrival of the first indentured labourers to Fiji, NFP Leader Professor Biman Prasad says their blood, sweat, toil and tears, as well as racial harmony with the indigenous Fijians and other races, has made Fiji the hub of the South Pacific.
The NFP Leader says the founding of schools, building of temples and the preservation of languages, culture and traditions is a hallmark of the principles of their self-dignity and respect.
He says these values have been inculcated by the Girmitiyas in their descendants and passed on from one generation to another.
Prasad says this is the legacy that the current generation must cherish and uphold it to future generations.
He says descendants of the Girmitiyas have done their forefathers and the nation immensely proud nationally and internationally.
Prasad says they have excelled in the fields of economy, education, politics and law and are serving the land of their birth with distinction.
