PM Modi Launches 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha, celebrating Global Indian Community

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in Odisha, greeting delegates and the Indian diaspora warmly. He highlighted India’s growing global influence and achievements, emphasizing that today’s India asserts its position and amplifies the voice of the Global South.

Modi also praised the Indian diaspora for its contributions to societies worldwide, pointing out how they integrate seamlessly while always staying connected to their roots.The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the diaspora for enhancing India’s global standing, sharing that world leaders have often praised the Indian community’s social values.

He stated, “India is not just the mother of democracy; democracy is an integral part of Indian life.” Modi further remarked that Indians contribute to the growth of their host countries with dedication and honesty while cherishing their Indian heritage.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Modi marked Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915, a key historical event. He also acknowledged the festive mood in India with celebrations like Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Speaking about PBD’s special edition, Modi highlighted that this event comes after the birth centenary of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision established the convention. The Prime Minister noted that the PBD serves as a key platform to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora.

While praising Odisha for its rich history, Modi spoke about landmarks such as the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves and the Sun Temple at Konark. He emphasized Odisha’s historical maritime connections and its legacy of peace, symbolized by Dhauli, where Emperor Ashoka embraced non-violence. “The future lies in the teachings of Buddha, not in war,” he said.

The Prime Minister shared India’s rapid progress, including lifting 250 million people out of poverty and rising to the world’s fifth-largest economy. He also celebrated achievements like the Chandrayaan mission and advancements in manufacturing and technology. Modi expressed confidence that India will soon become the third-largest economy globally.

He encouraged the diaspora to leverage India’s progress, engage in the country’s growth story, and promote its culture worldwide. Modi urged the diaspora to explore small towns in India and take part in heritage tourism. He also announced new measures for diaspora engagement, such as expanded eligibility for OCI cards, new embassies, and enhanced consular services.

He called for documenting inspiring stories from the diaspora, especially from the Girmitiya communities, and suggested establishing university chairs and hosting global conferences on diaspora heritage.

The Prime Minister urged the younger generation of the diaspora to join programs like “Bharat Ko Janiye” and “Study in India” and to spread awareness about India’s history and progress in their host countries. He reiterated the government’s commitment to making India a developed nation by 2047 and encouraged the diaspora to support Indian products, promote heritage, and plant trees in their mothers’ names as part of environmental initiatives.

Modi also emphasized the importance of the diaspora in globalizing local Indian products. He urged them to purchase “Made in India” goods, both locally and online, contributing to India’s development. The Prime Minister’s call to action resonated with the idea of building a developed India, with the diaspora playing an instrumental role.

Key figures present at the event included the Governor of Odisha, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Manjhi, Union Ministers, and other dignitaries.