The Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad acknowledged the role played by Dakshina India Andhra Sangam Organisation in the nation’s development over the past 80 years while officiating the eightieth Annual Convention of Penang Sangam School in Rakiraki yesterday.

He said the founders have done well in preserving their cultural heritage and commends the representation of women and youth within the organisation.

He added that the civil society organisation plays a big role in the social, economic and democratic development in Fiji.

The theme Sustaining Roots, Cultivating unity, nurturing heritage, empowering futures reflects the vision of its founders, Andhra Sangam and Alparti Tataiya.

Prasad hopes that the members can uphold the vision of the founders.

Story by Johnathan Kumar