New Delhi : The prime minister commended the contribution of nonresident Indians (NRIs) to their motherland, saying it was they who showed that Indians can be “as good as the best in the world,” on Aug. 15.

Describing them as the country’s “brain bank” and “cultural ambassadors,” he said it was they who introduced the nation to the challenge of creating an environment where merit was recognized and hard work rewarded.

“They have shown how enterprising we Indians can be if the environment is conducive. If the required infrastructure is provided and individual initiative is rewarded, we can be as good as the best in the world,” Singh said.