Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, celebrating the achievements and contributions of the Indian diaspora worldwide. Highlighting their global success, Mr. Modi said the accomplishments of the diaspora bring immense pride to the nation.
The three-day flagship event of the Central Government commenced yesterday with the Yuva Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”, emphasizes the pivotal role of the diaspora in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation. The event has drawn participation from a vast number of Indian expatriates across the globe. Union Ministers Dr. S. Jaishankar, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jual Oram, and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi are among the dignitaries in attendance.
As part of the event, PM Modi virtually launched the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. The train will embark on a three-week journey from Delhi’s Nizamuddin Railway Station, covering several key tourism and religious destinations in India.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of the diaspora in a globalized world, stating their contributions to technology, tourism, trade, and investment are invaluable. He acknowledged the role of the younger diaspora in enhancing India’s global image and highlighted how India’s people-centric transformations benefit both the nation and its expatriates.
The convention will conclude tomorrow with President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the valedictory ceremony. The President will honor distinguished members of the diaspora with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards for their outstanding achievements in various fields.
