India will observe a day of national mourning on Thursday, October 3, 2024, in honor of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the decision on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, stating that the mourning is a mark of profound respect for the departed dignitary.

During the period of mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where it is regularly displayed, and there will be no official entertainment. The directive applies to all public sector institutions and government offices across the country. This gesture underscores the depth of diplomatic relations and mutual respect shared between India and Qatar.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, born in 1952, served as the Emir of Qatar from June 27, 1995, until June 25, 2013. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in modernizing Qatar, transforming it into a significant regional and global player, particularly in the energy sector and international mediation. His reign saw substantial economic growth and social development within the Gulf nation. In 2013, Sheikh Hamad abdicated in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a move that marked a rare peaceful transition of power in the Arab world.

The decision by the Government of India to declare national mourning highlights the long-standing and robust bilateral relationship between India and Qatar. The two nations share comprehensive ties that encompass energy, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. India relies on Qatar as a crucial source of natural gas, with bilateral trade reaching approximately USD 18 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23.

Key details regarding the observance:

  • Date of Mourning: Thursday, October 3, 2024.
  • Flag Protocol: The national flag will fly at half-mast on all government buildings nationwide.
  • Official Events: All official entertainment scheduled for the day will be cancelled.
  • Former Emir's Tenure: Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013.
  • Bilateral Significance: The gesture reflects strong diplomatic ties and economic partnership between India and Qatar.

Furthermore, Qatar hosts a large Indian expatriate community, estimated to be over 750,000, who contribute significantly to the Qatari economy and maintain strong cultural links with India. This vibrant diaspora underscores the people-to-people connections that complement the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The declaration of national mourning serves as a formal expression of condolences from the people and government of India to the State of Qatar and the family of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. It reaffirms India's commitment to maintaining close and cordial relations with Gulf nations.