Bhubaneswar: The 18th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas commenced in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event at Janata Maidan. Themed “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” the convention spotlighted the essential role of Indian expatriates in nation-building and fostering India’s growth aspirations. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from global Pravasi Bharatiyas, Union Ministers, and government officials.
The Prime Minister called for greater involvement of the Indian diaspora in realizing the vision of a developed India by 2047, emphasizing their contributions as ambassadors of India’s culture, innovation, and progress.
Minister of State for MSME and Labour & Employment, Sushri Shoba Karandlaje, toured the theme pavilions curated by the Ministry of MSME and its affiliated organizations. A standout attraction was the prototype of Chandrayaan-3, developed by the Central Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC), Bhubaneswar. The CTTC has played a crucial role in manufacturing high-quality components that contributed to the success of India’s lunar mission and aligned with the Make in India initiative.
The Minister also explored cutting-edge technology demonstrations, including augmented reality-virtual reality (AR-VR) experience hubs, drone technologies, and solar panel manufacturing units. She engaged with artisans from Khadi and Village Industries, who showcased traditional crafts like Khadi Charkhas, looms, and Paper Mache.
During her visit, Sushri Karandlaje interacted with beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a flagship initiative launched by PM Modi on September 17, 2023. This scheme provides end-to-end support for artisans and craftspeople engaged in 18 trades, furthering India’s commitment to empowering its traditional workforce.
The MSME sector’s pavilion, aptly titled “Charkha to Chandrayaan,” showcased India’s advancements across diverse fields, including medical devices, aero engineering, water purification technologies, and indigenous crafts like Tussar silk and coir products. Sushri Karandlaje praised the display for its representation of India’s journey from traditional industries to cutting-edge technology.
The Minister also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora from Dubai, highlighting their role in promoting Indian culture and craftsmanship globally. She encouraged the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and contribute to India’s growth story, stressing their importance in achieving the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas celebrations underscored the deep ties between India and its global diaspora, showcasing their potential to drive innovation, preserve cultural heritage, and contribute to the nation’s progress.