Odisha CM Invites Indian Diaspora to Drive State’s Growth and Heritage Revival

Bhubaneswar: The Union Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has recognized the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora in shaping India’s global perception. Addressing the Yuva Pravasi Bharatiya Divas ceremony—the inaugural session of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar—Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar highlighted several initiatives aimed at nurturing young domestic talent to shine on the world stage.

“Investing in youth power is crucial to unlocking their full potential,” Dr. Jaishankar stated. He emphasized the Union Government’s commitment to youth welfare through flagship schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Mudra, Ayushman Bharat, and Jal Jeevan Mission, which ensure the future of India’s youth while enabling their creativity and skills to thrive globally.

Odisha’s Call to the Diaspora

Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, extended a heartfelt invitation to the diaspora, encouraging them to explore the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and investment opportunities. “Odisha is a treasure trove of history and culture. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, we are committed to achieving Samruddh Odisha by 2036 and contributing to the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047,” Majhi said. He urged the diaspora to actively participate in the state’s developmental journey, emphasizing the central role of Purvodaya in driving eastern India’s growth.

Majhi also noted Odisha’s remarkable progress in attracting investments, revealing that since June 2024, the state has received proposals worth ₹2.2 lakh crore and secured commitments of ₹40,000 crore for infrastructure development. He expressed Odisha’s aspiration to become a $1 trillion economy by its 100th anniversary of statehood in 2036.

Diaspora and Youth Leadership Highlighted

The event underscored the contributions of the Indian diaspora to global business leadership. Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek magazine, praised the cultural and ethical values of India, attributing them to the diaspora’s success in the global arena. Similarly, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita highlighted the impact of the Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojna, which equips Indian youth with skills to secure opportunities abroad.

On the sidelines of the event, Dr. Mansukh L. Mandaviya, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, spoke about empowering youth through platforms like the Viksit Bharat Young Leadership Dialogue 2025 and the National Youth Festival, showcasing the government’s focus on leadership and innovation.

Focus on Investment and Collaboration

A joint business session by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Government of Odisha showcased the state’s investment potential. Dr. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of leveraging Odisha’s 480 km coastline and natural ports to enhance trade and tourism, particularly with Southeast Asia.

“We envision India’s eastern seabed as a connector to Southeast Asia. NRIs and PIOs are integral to promoting Odisha’s growth potential,” Jaishankar remarked.

Principal Secretary, Industries Department, Hemant Sharma, presented Odisha’s industrial roadmap, inviting business leaders to convert dialogues into actionable investments.

Upcoming Highlights

The three-day event will feature Prime Minister Modi’s inauguration of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 9 and President Droupadi Murmu’s valedictory address on January 10, where she will confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.

With a blend of cultural pride and economic ambition, Odisha’s first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has set the stage for global partnerships and a vibrant future.