Bhubaneswar, Odisha, January 10, 2025 — Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in a vibrant ceremony held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Addressing the gathering of global Indian diaspora and dignitaries, he highlighted the deep cultural and historical ties that unite the diaspora with India, underscoring their role as ambassadors of India’s heritage and progress.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister lauded Grammy-winning artist Ricky Kej for a heartfelt musical rendition celebrating India’s global diaspora. Shri Modi also extended his gratitude to the Chief Guest, H.E. Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad & Tobago, for her warm video message acknowledging India’s progress.
Shri Modi noted the historic significance of January 9, marking Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915, and paid homage to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision inspired the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas initiative. “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora,” he stated.
Celebrating Odisha’s Rich Heritage
The Prime Minister highlighted Odisha’s unique legacy, citing iconic landmarks such as the Sun Temple at Konark, Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, and ancient maritime connections to Bali, Sumatra, and Java. “Odisha is a reflection of India’s rich heritage,” he remarked, urging the diaspora to draw inspiration from the state’s historical and cultural treasures.
India’s Rapid Development and Diaspora Contributions
Shri Modi emphasized India’s remarkable growth, including lifting 250 million people out of poverty and becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy. He shared milestones like the Chandrayaan mission and advancements in sectors such as renewable energy, aviation, and digital infrastructure.
Acknowledging the diaspora’s contributions, Shri Modi highlighted their role in promoting Indian values, driving global growth, and enhancing India’s reputation. He stressed India’s commitment to skilling programs and initiatives to ensure the diaspora’s success abroad, including expanding consular facilities and enhancing services for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI).
Pravasi Bharatiya Express and Tourism Boost
In a symbolic gesture, the Prime Minister remotely flagged off the inaugural Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. The train will embark on a three-week journey, connecting key religious and heritage sites, fostering a deeper connection between the diaspora and India’s cultural roots.
Call for Heritage Preservation and Global Promotion
The Prime Minister urged the diaspora to share stories of India’s historical contributions, including those of the Girmitiya communities. He proposed initiatives like World Girmitiya Conferences and university chairs dedicated to preserving this legacy.
A Vision for 2047
Shri Modi reaffirmed India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, emphasizing the need for diaspora collaboration in areas like heritage tourism, global promotion of “Made in India” products, and initiatives like the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” tree plantation drive.
Concluding the event, the Prime Minister called upon the diaspora to carry India’s vision of a prosperous and inclusive future. “Every effort by the diaspora contributes to India’s progress,” he said, wishing all attendees a fruitful 2025.
The event was graced by Odisha’s Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Manjhi, and Union Ministers including Shri S. Jaishankar and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, alongside representatives from over 50 countries.
Background
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, held annually, serves as a platform for India to engage with its global diaspora. The 18th edition, themed “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” underscores the essential role of Indian expatriates in nation-building.
