Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated an exhibition on Thursday as part of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) celebrations in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The event showcased India’s achievements and contributions of its diaspora to the nation.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train dedicated to the Indian diaspora. Highlighting the initiative, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared on social media, “PM @narendramodi Ji flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train for the Indian diaspora under the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative.”
During his address at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, PM Modi emphasized India’s rapid development and its role as a global talent hub. He asserted that India’s young and skilled population will play a pivotal role in meeting global demands in the 21st century.
“India is progressing at an incredible speed and scale. For decades to come, India will remain a country with the world’s most young and skilled population, fulfilling the world’s demand for skilled talent,” he said.
PM Modi also expressed gratitude to the Indian diaspora for their contributions to India’s global reputation. “World leaders I meet consistently praise the Indian diaspora for their contributions. Your values and actions enhance India’s image worldwide,” he remarked.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad, PM Modi said, “Your safety and welfare are our top priority. We consider it our responsibility to assist you during crises, no matter where you are. This is a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy.”
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is being organized in partnership with the Odisha government from January 8 to 10. The event has attracted members of the Indian diaspora from over 50 countries. The theme for this year’s convention is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed optimism about the convention, stating, “The takeaway from #PBD2025 will clearly be a Bharat that is confident, modernizing, and inclusive, where tradition and technology coexist.”
PM Modi received a warm welcome from Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar upon his arrival in Bhubaneswar. The exhibition he inaugurated highlights India’s achievements and the vital role played by its diaspora in shaping the nation’s progress.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention serves as a platform for the Indian government to engage with its diaspora, fostering connections and enabling collaborations to build a stronger, more prosperous India.
