TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The India Taipei Association (ITA) organized a Mahatma Gandhi painting competition at Sinshang Elementary School in Kaohsiung to celebrate his birthday (Oct. 2).

The competition focused on the theme "Coexisting in Harmony" to highlight the importance of living harmoniously with nature and applying these principles to human interactions, such as in conflict resolution, according to an ITA press release. More than 300 students participated in the competition.

ITA Director General Manharsinh Yadav presented awards to the selected winners on Wednesday (Oct. 9). Yadav said by emphasizing Gandhi's ideals of peace, self-reliance, and tolerance, youth will be inspired to follow his example and become “protectors of Taiwan's democracy.”

Yadav said that through collaboration with Sinshang Elementary School, ITA aims to foster strong ties between India and Kaohsiung. This partnership extends to cooperation in the industrial sector, he said.

Yadav met with Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) during his visit to Kaohsiung. The two sides exchanged views on trade and investment and emphasized the potential for cooperation in technology and green energy industries. 

Both parties also looked forward to more cultural and educational exchanges. The Indian representative suggested that both sides could promote innovative development in the shipping and electronics industries, which are crucial for Kaohsiung's economy. 

ITA will host a Diwali celebration in Kaohsiung on Oct. 26 at Weiwuying Metropolitan Park.