PM Modi Inaugurates 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Odisha, Flags Off Pravasi Bharatiya Express.
Bhubaneswar:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, emphasizing the growing importance of the Indian diaspora in shaping India’s progress on the global stage. Addressing the gathering, PM Modi highlighted the event’s significance in strengthening the bond between India and its people abroad, describing PBD as an institution that celebrates Indianness, culture, and progress.
In a historic move, PM Modi also flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train aimed at connecting the Indian diaspora with significant religious and cultural sites in India. This initiative, part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana, will offer a three-week journey for the diaspora, enhancing their connection with India’s rich heritage.
The Prime Minister celebrated the incredible progress of India, noting the country’s rise to become the 5th largest economy in the world and its growing role in global affairs. He emphasized India’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of its diaspora, especially during crises, and praised the invaluable contributions of Indians worldwide.
Reflecting on India’s democratic values, PM Modi affirmed, “We are not just the Mother of Democracy; democracy is an integral part of our lives.” He also reiterated India’s capacity to meet global demands for skilled talent and outlined the nation’s ambitious development goals, aiming to make India a developed nation by 2047.
The three-day PBD convention, held from January 8 to 10, brings together Indian diaspora members from over 50 countries, with the theme “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). The event also commemorates the centenary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision was instrumental in the establishment of PBD.
The convention is a testament to the growing influence of India’s global community and its role in shaping the nation’s future as it continues its journey toward becoming a global leader.
