Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, warmly welcoming delegates and members of the Indian diaspora from around the globe. He expressed hope that the inauguration song would resonate in future diaspora events worldwide and lauded Grammy-winning artist Ricky Kej for capturing the emotions of the Indian diaspora in the musical rendition.
The Prime Minister extended his gratitude to the Chief Guest, H.E. Christine Carla Kangaroo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, for her impactful video message praising India’s progress. He noted the joyous atmosphere in India, with vibrant festivals like Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and Maag Bihu approaching, and highlighted the significance of the day, marking Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915. Modi underscored the historical importance of the event, held shortly after the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision helped establish PBD as a platform to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora.
The Prime Minister highlighted Odisha’s rich heritage, including sites like the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, the Sun Temple at Konark, and ancient ports such as Tamralipti and Manikpatna. He celebrated Odisha’s maritime history, exemplified by the Bali Yatra festival, and noted Dhauli’s legacy as a symbol of peace, where Emperor Ashoka embraced non-violence. He remarked that India’s heritage inspires the world to choose peace over conflict.
Modi emphasized that the Indian diaspora serves as ambassadors of India, contributing to their host nations’ prosperity while keeping their roots alive. He shared that world leaders consistently praise the diaspora’s social values and contributions. Highlighting India’s development, he noted that in a decade, the nation had lifted 250 million people out of poverty, risen to the fifth-largest economy, and was on course to become the third-largest. He cited advancements in sectors like renewable energy, aviation, and space exploration, including the Chandrayaan mission. He envisioned a future where “Made in India” planes would transport participants to PBD.
Acknowledging India’s rising global influence, Modi highlighted the nation’s advocacy for the Global South and its role in securing African Union membership in the G-20. He praised the Indian diaspora’s achievements across industries and celebrated recipients of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to skill development, ensuring that Indians heading abroad are well-prepared through skilling initiatives.
To enhance the diaspora’s convenience, Modi noted recent reforms, including opening 14 new embassies and expanding OCI card eligibility to seventh-generation PIOs from Mauritius and sixth-generation PIOs from Suriname, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. He proposed documenting the inspiring stories of the diaspora, such as the “Girmitiya” community and suggested initiatives like a database, university chairs, and regular conferences to preserve their legacy.
Celebrating India’s blend of development and heritage, Modi highlighted cultural events like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and Saurashtra Tamil Sangamam, alongside efforts to connect heritage sites via Bharat Gaurav and Vande Bharat trains. He announced the Pravasi Bharatiya Express train, which will take participants to 17 heritage and faith destinations, and urged the diaspora to explore smaller Indian towns and villages, promoting heritage tourism.
The Prime Minister urged young diaspora members to join initiatives like the “Bharat Ko Janiye” quiz and “Study in India” programs, fostering deeper connections with India. He emphasized sharing India’s rich history and achievements globally and strengthening ties through local awards and events. Highlighting the role of the diaspora in promoting “Made in India” products, he encouraged them to incorporate Indian items into their daily lives.
Modi concluded by promoting environmental consciousness through tree-planting initiatives like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” and encouraged the diaspora to carry India’s vision of development back to their host nations. He wished everyone prosperity in 2025 and invited them to return to India, contributing to the nation’s growth journey. The event saw the participation of Odisha’s Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Manjhi, Union Ministers, and other dignitaries.
