Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly welcomed by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Thursday as he arrived in Bhubaneswar to inaugurate the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention.
Earlier, Odisha CM Majhi extended his greetings on the occasion via a post on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Greetings to everyone on the occasion of ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.’ The contribution of Indians in the development of the country is unforgettable. Let us adopt indigenous ideas and pledge to further promote the art, culture, and traditions of our country in the world.”
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a flagship event of the Government of India aimed at fostering connections with the Indian diaspora. Organized in partnership with the Odisha state government, the 18th edition is being held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10.
This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” emphasizes the role of the Indian diaspora in shaping a developed India. More than 50 countries are represented, with a large number of diaspora members registered to attend.
Speaking ahead of the event, EAM Jaishankar praised the Indian diaspora as a “living bridge” connecting India to the global community. He stated, “India will be unique in terms of a major power rising, which has actually used, is using, and will continue to use its diaspora as a very important pathway of its globalization and for its rise in the international order.”
Upon arrival at Bhubaneswar Airport, PM Modi was received by CM Majhi, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the PBD Convention and will virtually flag off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train for the Indian diaspora.
This train, launched under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana, will commence its inaugural journey from the Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi. It will traverse multiple destinations of tourism and religious significance across India over three weeks, offering a unique experience to members of the diaspora.
The event is poised to celebrate the global Indian community and highlight their contributions to India’s progress and international standing.
