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Bhubaneswar:9/1/25:Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar and welcomed the NRIs to Odisha, the land of Jagannath and Lingaraj.
Shri Modi emphasized Odisha’s rich heritage, including its iconic sites like Konark and Dhauli, as well as cultural celebrations such as Bali Yatra. He noted that India is currently the fifth-largest economy and is on track to become the third-largest soon. “Indians excel globally, and I am proud of you,” said Prime Minister Modi.
“I feel very happy when I meet all of you. I never forget the love and blessings I have received from you. Today, I want to thank you all, because of you I have the chance to hold my head high. Over the last ten years, I have met many world leaders, and they all appreciate the Indian diaspora in their respective countries. One major reason for this is the social values you carry,” he stated at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar.
“We are not just the ‘mother of democracy’; democracy is also a part of our life. We don’t need to be taught about diversity; our lives are defined by it. That’s why wherever Indians go, they become a part of the society in that country. We respect the rules and traditions of the host country and sincerely contribute to its growth and prosperity, all while our hearts continue to beat for Bharat,” said PM Modi at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
In the past decade, Bharat has lifted 250 million people out of poverty and has become the fifth-largest economy. The day is not far off when Bharat will rank as the third-largest economy in the world. The entire world is witnessing the development of Bharat, according to PM Modi.
“This is a time of vibrant festivals and gatherings in India. Soon, the Mahakumbh will commence in Prayagraj, and we will also celebrate Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu. There is a joyous atmosphere everywhere. Significantly, today marks the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915 after a long time abroad. Your presence in India during such a wonderful time adds to the festive spirit. This edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is special for another reason: we have gathered after the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision was instrumental in establishing this program,” PM Modi concluded while addressing the gathering at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar.
During the event, PM Modi will also inaugurate four exhibitions: Vishwaroop Ram: The Universal Legacy of Ramayana by ICCR; Diaspora’s Contribution to Technology by MEA; Bharat Bharatiya: Swadesh Pardes – Abhilekhiye Virasat by the National Archives of India; and Heritage and Culture of Odisha by the Odisha government. He also visited promotional stalls showcasing contributions by Union Ministries and state governments.
The convention featured a virtual address by Chief Guest Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Afternoon and evening sessions included themes such as “Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Stories of Migrant Skills,” chaired by Shobha Karandlaje, and “Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contributions to Sustainable Development,” chaired by Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The valedictory session on Friday will feature closing remarks by President Droupadi Murmu, who will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.
Established in 2003 under then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a platform to recognize and engage with the overseas Indian community. Since 2015, it has evolved into a biennial event, offering opportunities for focused discussions and networking among the global diaspora.
