Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, urging the Indian diaspora to contribute to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

“India achieved independence in 1947, and our diaspora played a role in this by contributing to the freedom struggle from abroad. Now we aim to make India a developed nation by 2047,” said Prime Minister Modi.

PM Modi recognized the contributions of Indians living abroad, stating that their efforts had made India a global leader in remittances.

He emphasized that India’s growth is not confined to its metropolitan areas, pointing out that a large portion of the population resides in smaller towns and villages. The Prime Minister urged the diaspora to promote heritage tourism in their host countries.

“There’s a lot of Indian culture there. We have to connect the world with this heritage,” said PM Modi.

He encouraged members of the diaspora to visit smaller towns and villages in India, experience local attractions, and share their impressions abroad.

The Prime Minister also appealed to the diaspora to spread awareness about India’s history, including its past prosperity, colonial struggles, and cultural resilience. He said, “You have the opportunity to convey the real history of India to the younger generations in your countries of residence.”

PM Modi noted that India is following the mantra of development along with heritage. He said that the Indian government during the G-20 event organised various meetings in every nook and corner of the country so that the world could get a first-hand experience of India’s diversity. He informed the gathering that the Indian government has decided to establish Thiruvalluvar Culture Centres to propagate the thoughts of Saint Thiruvalluvar.

Referring to a historical project documenting the journey of people of Gujarati origin in Oman, PM Modi highlighted the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of the diaspora’s global legacy. He called these stories a shared heritage and underscored the need to cherish them.

PM Modi also called for the promotion of Indian products abroad. “You also have a big role in making India’s local products global. You must buy Made in India food packets, Made in India clothes and any such thing,” he urged.

Referring to the diaspora as ambassadors of India, PM Modi assured them of the government’s commitment to their welfare during crises. “Your safety and welfare are a priority. We consider it our duty to support the diaspora in challenging times, wherever they may be,” he stated.

During his speech, he also mentioned Odisha’s historical and cultural contributions, referencing sites like the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, the Konark Sun Temple, and ancient ports such as Tamralipti and Manikpatna.

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas concluded with a focus on the pivotal role of the diaspora in India’s progress towards 2047.