Goa, July 12 -- The Government of India has declared a one-day national mourning on July 13 following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Father Amir and former Emir of Qatar. The announcement was made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which said the decision was taken as a mark of respect for the late leader, who played a pivotal role in transforming Qatar into one of the world's most prosperous nations.

As part of the observance, the National Flag will fly at half-mast across all government buildings where it is regularly displayed. The MEA also stated that there will be no official entertainment during the day of mourning.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Sheikh Hamad, describing him as a "visiona...