At the end of the meeting with the Kashmiri Pandit delegation in Houston on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi surprised everyone by joining them in the recital of the 'Namaste Sharade Devi' shloka. Prior to this interaction, he engaged with members of the Dawoodi Bohra and Sikh community. Barely after a few hours, he is set to address the 'Howdy, Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures' community gathering at the NRG stadium. United States of America President Donald Trump will join him on the stage at the event. 

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'A historic decision'

PM Modi acknowledged the hardships encountered by the Kashmiri Pandit community during the exodus in 1989-90 due to militancy. However, he encouraged them to move ahead and help build a new Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). 

On the other hand, one of the members kissed the PM's hand to thank him on behalf of "7 lakh Kashmiri Pandits" for revoking the special status of J&K. The delegation assured that they would work with the government to ensure peace and growth. A memorandum was presented to PM Modi, requesting him to set up an advisory council consisting of key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan to repatriate Kashmiri Pandits in J&K. They focused on restoring the core values of Kashmiri civilization of peace, pluralism and religious freedom. 

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US visit

Already, more than 50,000 people have registered for the event with plenty more on the waiting list. A 90-minute cultural programme is on the cards, with live audio feed transmission in English, Hindi as well as Spanish. Commenting on US President Trump's presence at the event, the White House Press Secretary stated that ways to deepen the energy and trade relationship would be discussed during his meeting with PM Modi. Subsequently, the PM thanked US President Trump’s 'special gesture'. He opined that the US President joining the 'Howdy, Modi!' programme was a recognition of the contribution of the Indian community to American society and economy. Also, singing sensation Sparsh Shah has been selected to perform the Indian National Anthem at the event.

(With ANI inputs)

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