Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasized India’s rapid development in the 21st century, underscoring its potential to meet global demands for skilled talent. Speaking at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, PM Modi highlighted the Indian government’s commitment to supporting its diaspora during crises.
“21st century India is progressing at an incredible speed and scale,” PM Modi said. “For decades to come, India will remain a country with the world’s most young and skilled population. We have the potential to fulfill the global demand for skilled talent.”
Addressing the Indian diaspora, he expressed gratitude for their contributions to India’s global reputation. “I feel immense joy when I meet you all. I am deeply thankful for your love and blessings. Because of you, I have the opportunity to hold my head high on the world stage,” he said. PM Modi also acknowledged the diaspora’s role in showcasing India’s social values, which are widely appreciated by global leaders.
PM Modi reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of Indians abroad. “Your safety and welfare are our top priorities. We consider it our responsibility to support the diaspora during crises, no matter where they are,” he stated, calling this commitment a guiding principle of India’s foreign policy.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also addressed the gathering, highlighting the state’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. He described Odisha as a hub of diverse traditions, showcasing classical arts such as Odissi dance and Pattachitra paintings.
“The intricate art of Pattachitra and the world-famous handloom fabrics of Sambalpur are among our most cherished traditions,” CM Majhi said. “Beyond heritage, Odisha is a treasure trove of natural beauty.”
The PBD Convention is a flagship event of the Government of India, providing a platform for the Indian diaspora to connect and engage. Organized in partnership with the Odisha government from January 8 to 10, the 18th PBD Convention centers on the theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”. Participants include representatives from over 50 countries.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called the diaspora a “living bridge” connecting India to the world. “India is unique among major powers, as it actively uses its diaspora to support its globalization and rise in the international order,” he remarked on Wednesday.
PM Modi received a warm welcome upon his arrival in Bhubaneswar. Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, CM Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan greeted the Prime Minister at the airport before the inaugural session of the convention.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas continues to celebrate the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora while fostering deeper ties between them and their homeland.
