Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, welcoming Indian diaspora delegates from around the globe. In his address, he expressed optimism that the event’s inauguration song, performed by Grammy-winning artist Ricky Kej and his team, would resonate in diaspora events worldwide.
Thanking the Chief Guest, H.E. Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad & Tobago, for her heartfelt video message, the Prime Minister highlighted her praise for India’s progress. He noted the significance of the day, commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915, and celebrated the festive atmosphere amplified by upcoming events like Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and Maag Bihu.
Highlighting the importance of Odisha as the venue, Modi praised the state’s rich heritage, from the Sun Temple in Konark to the historic ports of Tamralipti and Manikpatna. He emphasized the global legacy of Odisha’s ancient maritime trade and the peace symbolized by Dhauli, where Emperor Ashoka embraced non-violence.
The Prime Minister emphasized the diaspora’s role as India’s ambassadors, stating that their contributions elevate India’s image globally. “Your achievements are India’s pride,” he said, adding that their social values and commitment to host countries have won global admiration.
Modi underscored India’s transformative growth, citing achievements such as lifting 250 million people out of poverty and becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy. He highlighted milestones like the Chandrayaan mission and advancements in renewable energy, electric mobility, and aviation, envisioning a future where Pravasi Bharatiya Divas attendees travel on “Made in India” planes.
The Prime Minister stressed India’s growing global role, citing the G20’s unanimous support for India’s proposal to include the African Union as a permanent member. He also celebrated the government’s initiatives to enhance diaspora services, including expanding OCI card eligibility for generations of Indian origin and opening 14 new embassies in the last two years.
The Prime Minister urged the diaspora to preserve and share stories of their heritage, citing examples like the Girmitiya legacy and Gujarat’s settlers in Oman. He proposed establishing World Girmitiya Conferences and a dedicated university chair to document these narratives.
Modi announced initiatives to promote Indian heritage globally, such as the establishment of Thiruvalluvar Culture Centers and Bharat Gaurav trains, connecting significant cultural sites. He also unveiled plans for a Pravasi Bharatiya Express train to tour 17 key heritage destinations.
Recognizing the diaspora’s economic contributions, Modi encouraged them to support India’s development journey by promoting local products and leveraging the GIFT City ecosystem for investments. He also appealed to young diaspora members to engage through programs like Bharat Ko Janiye and the Study in India initiative.
The Prime Minister concluded with a call for environmental action, urging the diaspora to plant trees in their mother’s name as a tribute to both family and the planet. He expressed confidence in India’s path toward becoming a developed nation by 2047, inviting the diaspora to actively participate in this journey.
