18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Kicks Off in Bhubaneswar
Showcases India’s Global Engagement
By : Akshaya Kumar Sahoo
Update: 2025-01-08 07:24 GMT
Bhubaneswar: The 18th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) commenced on Wednesday at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurating the event.
In his keynote address, CM Majhi invited the Indian diaspora to explore Odisha’s potential, emphasizing the state’s rich natural resources, skilled workforce, and investment opportunities. "Odisha is a land of immense possibilities, offering a blend of mineral wealth, vibrant culture, and untapped prospects in infrastructure and tourism," he said.
Dr. Jaishankar lauded the contributions of the Indian diaspora, numbering 30 million globally, to India’s progress. "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is on a transformative journey. The achievements of young Indians worldwide are a testament to our nation's strength and potential," he stated.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the pivotal role of youth in driving India’s growth, particularly in science, technology, and medicine. He urged the diaspora to continue their contributions to India’s development journey.
The three-day event has drawn a diverse audience, including policymakers, industry leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora. It aims to deepen connections with overseas Indians while showcasing India’s cultural heritage, innovation, and global prospects.
The program features seminars, discussions, and cultural performances on themes such as heritage, innovation, and collaboration. Key focus areas include investment opportunities, digital partnerships, and cultural exchanges.
Instituted in 2003, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India on January 9, 1915, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s freedom struggle.
Among the inaugural speakers were Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, Newsweek CEO Dr. Dev Pragad, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver the keynote address tomorrow, followed by President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the valedictory session on Friday.
In his keynote address, CM Majhi invited the Indian diaspora to explore Odisha’s potential, emphasizing the state’s rich natural resources, skilled workforce, and investment opportunities. "Odisha is a land of immense possibilities, offering a blend of mineral wealth, vibrant culture, and untapped prospects in infrastructure and tourism," he said.
Dr. Jaishankar lauded the contributions of the Indian diaspora, numbering 30 million globally, to India’s progress. "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is on a transformative journey. The achievements of young Indians worldwide are a testament to our nation's strength and potential," he stated.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the pivotal role of youth in driving India’s growth, particularly in science, technology, and medicine. He urged the diaspora to continue their contributions to India’s development journey.
The three-day event has drawn a diverse audience, including policymakers, industry leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora. It aims to deepen connections with overseas Indians while showcasing India’s cultural heritage, innovation, and global prospects.
The program features seminars, discussions, and cultural performances on themes such as heritage, innovation, and collaboration. Key focus areas include investment opportunities, digital partnerships, and cultural exchanges.
Instituted in 2003, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India on January 9, 1915, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s freedom struggle.
Among the inaugural speakers were Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, Newsweek CEO Dr. Dev Pragad, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver the keynote address tomorrow, followed by President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the valedictory session on Friday.