The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is set to bring together large delegations from the Indian diaspora across 50 countries, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event on Thursday. The three-day convention, began on Wednesday in Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), more than 5,000 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from over 50 countries have registered for the PBD Convention. This flagship event serves as a vital platform for the global Indian diaspora to reconnect with their roots, engage with one another, and showcase their contributions to the development of India.
This year marks the first time the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is being held in Odisha. The state has made extensive preparations to highlight its rich historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage. “Under the ‘Look East’ policy, Prime Minister Modi has emphasized that India’s development is closely tied to the rise of the East. Odisha’s hosting of this prestigious event is a clear reflection of this vision,” said Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo, expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for entrusting the state with this responsibility.
The convention opened with addresses from key dignitaries, including Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja revealed that over 5,000 NRIs are expected to participate, with delegates scheduled to visit 21 selected sites across Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Jajpur. These visits aim to promote Odisha as a key international tourism destination.
The excitement among diaspora members is palpable. Amit Kumar, a delegate from the Bhojpuri Association of Singapore, shared his enthusiasm: “I am an Indian, and I have been living and working in Singapore for the last 16 years. It’s heartening to see the Prime Minister’s message reach us, and I am sure this message is spreading globally.”
Revathi Pillay from South Africa expressed her pride in India’s technological advancements, saying, “India will always be my motherland. Prime Minister Modi’s story inspires me to work with youth as a leader.” Mohammed Farooqui from the USA praised the platform for its role in uniting NRIs worldwide, calling it a significant space for showcasing the achievements of Indians abroad.
Daljit Singh, also from the USA, expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Modi’s initiatives benefiting the Sikh community, including the removal of GST on Harmandir Sahib and the establishment of the Kartarpur Sahib corridor. Surender Ahlawat, a delegate from Qatar, emphasized the importance of continuity in governance policies, stating, “Sustaining these policies for at least another decade will solidify their impact.”
For many, the event holds deep emotional significance. Amma Haider, representing the UAE, likened the event to a mother inviting her scattered children back home. “This event feels like that,” she said.
Sarabjit Singh Dhillon from Australia, attending his first PBD Convention, reflected on India’s growth, “Over the last 10 years, I have witnessed India’s transformation, and it makes me want to return to India.”
The PBD Convention, themed ‘Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,’ will also feature a virtual address by Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, who will be the Chief Guest.
Following the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi will flag off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train for the diaspora. The train will travel across India for three weeks, visiting major tourist and religious sites, offering a unique experience for international participants.
The convention will culminate on January 10, with President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the valedictory session, during which the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards 2025 will be conferred upon 27 distinguished diaspora members from 24 countries. The awards recognize the significant achievements and contributions of individuals in various fields, both in India and abroad.
(With IANS inputs)
