On March 24, 2026, the Embassy of India in Ashgabat hosted a formal event at the Yyldyz Hotel to commemorate ITEC Day. The gathering brought together alumni of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships, alongside members of the diplomatic and academic communities. The celebration focused on highlighting the long-standing educational partnership between the two nations and promoting modern academic pathways for local students.

The Ambassador of India to Turkmenistan, Bandaru Wilsonbabu, opened the proceedings by detailing the evolution of the ITEC program since its inception in 1964. He emphasized that the initiative remains a cornerstone of India's foreign policy aimed at capacity building in partner countries. To date, over 225,000 professionals from 160 countries have benefited from this training. Turkmenistan holds a prominent place in this framework, with more than 500 civilian professionals and approximately 100 military personnel having completed advanced courses at India’s premier institutions.

Ambassador Wilsonbabu also pointed to the growing trend of Turkmen students choosing India for their higher education. In addition to the 200 scholars who have utilized ICCR grants, nearly 100 students from Turkmenistan enroll in Indian universities on a self-financed basis annually. The Ambassador highlighted that India provides high-quality, internationally recognized education at an affordable cost, urging young Turkmens to take active advantage of these diverse learning opportunities in various technical and humanitarian fields.

The event featured heartfelt testimonials from alumni who discussed how their educational experiences in India have positively impacted their professional careers in Turkmenistan. These insights provided prospective candidates with a realistic view of the academic environment and living standards in India. The evening concluded with a vibrant cultural showcase, including traditional Indian music, dance performances, and a yoga demonstration, reinforcing the deep cultural bonds that complement the educational ties between the two countries.