'India a beacon of progress for all nations' says Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers in an addrees to the Gopio Quennsland India Day Fair.His address follows:  I acknowledge the elders and traditions of the Turrbal and Jagera people – I acknowledge you, Aunty Betty.Thank you, Prasad and everyone at the Organisation for putting on this fantastic celebration.My colleagues in the Federal and Queensland Governments, as well as the Lord Mayor and Councillors. And to everyone here making up this field of light and colour in front of us.The community leaders and educators, the job creators and innovators, generations of family and friends making up Queensland’s rich Indian community – Thanks for letting me join with you to mark 75 years of Indian independence.And 75 years not just of partnership, but of dosti – friendship – between India and Australia. I bring with me the warm regards of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and all of my colleagues from the Federal Government.The images we saw of Prime Minister Albanese being embraced by Prime Minister Modi a few months ago, just hours after he was sworn in – Reminded all of us of the deep ties between our two nations – And the determination of both leaders to strengthen our bond, so that we can keep succeeding together.This coming Monday, when Prime Minister Modi unfurls the Tiranga at the Red Fort in Delhi – The Indian diaspora will celebrate its extraordinary accomplishments since the first Prime Minister, Pandit Nehru, declared the beginning of what he called the ‘great adventure’ of independence.75 years on, India is – About to be the world’s most populous nation – Already the world’s largest democracy – An incubator of global innovation – Turning economic growth into widespread social advancement – And a beacon of progress for all nations and peoples still searching for a pathway to peace and prosperity.Here in Australia – we also celebrate you, and we thank you – For India’s remarkable contribution to our own national story.India is the birthplace of nearly 700,000 Australian residents.India is the largest source of permanent migration to Australia. And today, one in 25 Australians can proudly claim Indian heritage.So over the weekend, and on Monday, we will celebrate the success of our friendship, and look towards new opportunities to deepen our ties.Much has been done to bring our nations and our people closer – but there is much more we can and must still do. The Albanese Government is firmly committed to making our strong links even stronger.By building on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. By boosting economic opportunities through the Free Trade Agreement. And by continuing to listen to and learn from the Indian people who give us the honour of choosing to call Australia home.We look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi back to Australia – including for next year’s Quad Leaders’ Summit. I look forward to travelling to India next year, as India becomes the G20 host nation.And when we gather here again next year, it will be in celebration of a country with the biggest population on the planet. On the eve of independence 75 years ago, Prime Minister Nehru proclaimed it as ‘but a step, an opening of opportunity to the greater triumphs and achievements that await us.’There is perhaps no better example in modern history of a newly unshackled nation making real the promise of her forebears, and the potential of her people.Now, and in the years ahead, I have no doubt that India and its people – at home and abroad – will continue to step with confidence towards the vision of India’s freedom fighters. I know India’s triumphs and achievements are not just in the past but in the future as well.I know Australia will continue to benefit from India’s growth and prosperity.  And I know that together, our dosti will become stronger and stronger.Friends, happy Indian Independence Day. Jai Hind. - Our Special Correspondent Govind Raj