Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Inauguration: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Welcoming delegates and diaspora members from across the globe, he praised Grammy Award-winning artist Ricky Kej and his team for their musical rendition, which he hoped would resonate in Indian diaspora events worldwide.
The Prime Minister thanked H.E. Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, for her heartfelt video message celebrating India’s progress. Highlighting India’s festive season, he noted the upcoming Maha Kumbh, Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and Maag Bihu, emphasizing the vibrant spirit of the nation. Shri Modi recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India on this day in 1915, marking it as a significant moment for the Indian diaspora to celebrate.
He paid tribute to former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision led to the establishment of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. “PBD has become a key institution strengthening the bond between India and its diaspora,” he remarked.
Celebrating Odisha’s Heritage
Shri Modi extolled Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, from the Sun Temple in Konark to the ancient maritime history of Tamralipti. He cited the Bali Yatra festival and the peace symbol at Dhauli, where Emperor Ashoka embraced nonviolence. The Prime Minister urged the diaspora to draw inspiration from this legacy, emphasizing the global message of peace.
Acknowledging the Diaspora’s Role
The Prime Minister described the diaspora as ambassadors of India, noting their vital contributions to their host countries while staying rooted in Indian values. He highlighted India’s rapid progress, including lifting 250 million people out of poverty and becoming the 5th largest economy, with aspirations to rise to the 3rd position.
He celebrated India’s achievements in renewable energy, aviation, and space exploration, including the Chandrayaan mission, and envisioned a future where the diaspora could travel to PBD events in “Made in India” planes.
Connecting with Heritage
Shri Modi stressed the importance of preserving the stories of the diaspora, proposing databases, documentaries, and conferences to highlight the contributions of “Girmitiya” communities. He announced initiatives like the Pravasi Bharatiya Express train and heritage tourism programs to deepen connections with India’s cultural roots.
Global Outreach and Development
The Prime Minister emphasized India’s global leadership, particularly in advocating for the Global South. He encouraged the diaspora to promote “Made in India” products and strengthen India’s image abroad. He also highlighted steps taken to support the diaspora, including expanded OCI card benefits and improved consular services.
Concluding his speech, Shri Modi urged the diaspora to plant trees in their mothers’ names and to actively contribute to India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Manjhi, Union Ministers, and other distinguished leaders.
