New Delhi, 13 July (H.S.): India observed a one-day State mourning on Monday following the demise of former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. As a mark of respect, the National Flag was flown at half-mast on government buildings across the country, including prominent administrative establishments in the national capital.

The Tricolour was lowered to half-mast at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, Samvidhan Sadan, North Block, South Block, and several other key government offices in New Delhi in accordance with the national mourning protocol.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on social media platform X that India is observing a one-day State mourning in honour of the former Emir of Qatar, with the National Flag flying at half-mast across government establishments. Other government buildings, including Krishi Bhavan, Rail Bhavan, the Air Force Building, and the Seva Teerth Complex, also lowered the flag as a tribute.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away on July 12 at the age of 74. Widely known in Qatar as the Father Emir, he assumed power in 1995 and led the Gulf nation for 18 years.

During his tenure, Qatar underwent sweeping economic transformation, made substantial investments in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector, and emerged as the world's leading exporter of LNG. He also played a pivotal role in modernising Doha's architectural landscape and significantly enhancing Qatar's global standing.

In 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily abdicated the throne, transferring power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, marking a rare and peaceful transition of leadership in the region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar