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PM Modi Inaugurates 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha
Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on January 8, 2025. The event, a collaborative effort between the Central Government and the Odisha state government, is set to run until January 10. Upon his arrival, PM Modi was greeted by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at the airport, marking the beginning of a significant festivity of India’s global diaspora.
in his address, PM Modi emphasized the importance of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, stating, “pravasi Bharatiya Divas has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora.” He highlighted the timing of the event, coinciding with upcoming festivals like Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu, and also the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. “There is a joyful atmosphere everywhere,” he added, noting the historical significance of the day. “For us, it was on this day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi came back to India after a long time abroad. Your presence in India at such a wonderful time is adding to the festive spirit.”
The Prime Minister also reflected on the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose birth centenary was recently celebrated. “This edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is special for an additional reason. We have gathered after the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. His vision was instrumental to this program,” PM Modi remarked, underscoring the enduring impact of Vajpayee’s contributions to India’s global outreach.
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Location :
Odisha (Orissa), India
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Are there specific examples of how the diaspora can contribute to India’s growth in sectors like renewable energy and healthcare?
Archyde Exclusive Interview: A Conversation wiht Dr.Ananya Sharma, Renowned Diaspora Expert, on PM Modi’s Inauguration of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha
Date: January 9, 2025
Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Archyde News Editor: good afternoon, Dr. Sharma. Thank you for joining us today. Prime Minister Narendra modi has just inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in Odisha.As a leading expert on diaspora relations, what are your thoughts on the significance of this event?
Dr. Ananya Sharma: Thank you for having me. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a cornerstone event for India, celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the nation’s growth and global influence. This year’s event in Odisha is notably significant because it highlights the government’s focus on connecting with the diaspora in newer regions,beyond the traditional hubs. Odisha, with its rich cultural heritage and growing economic potential, serves as a symbolic backdrop for this year’s theme: “Bridging Borders, Building Futures.”
Archyde News Editor: PM Modi has been a strong advocate for engaging the diaspora. How do you think his leadership has shaped India’s relationship with its overseas community?
Dr. Sharma: PM Modi’s leadership has been transformative in this regard. As taking office in 2014, he has consistently emphasized the role of the diaspora as “brand ambassadors” for India. His initiatives, such as the PBD conventions, the Know India program, and the Overseas Citizenship of India scheme, have strengthened ties with the diaspora. Under his leadership, the diaspora has become a key partner in India’s development, contributing to sectors like technology, education, and healthcare. His recent speech at the PBD, where he spoke about leveraging diaspora expertise for India’s viksit bharat (developed India) vision, underscores this commitment.
Archyde News Editor: The choice of Odisha as the host state is engaging. What does this signify for the region and its diaspora?
Dr. Sharma: odisha is a state with immense potential,often overshadowed by more prominent economic centers. By hosting the PBD here, the government is shining a spotlight on Odisha’s cultural richness and its growing industrial and technological sectors.This move also encourages the Odia diaspora, which is spread across countries like the USA, Canada, and the Gulf, to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the state’s development. It’s a strategic decision that aligns with the government’s broader goal of balanced regional development.
Archyde News Editor: In his address,PM Modi mentioned the role of the diaspora in India’s journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047. How realistic is this vision, and what role can the diaspora play?
Dr. Sharma: The vision of a developed India by 2047 is aspiring but achievable, provided there is sustained collaboration between the government, private sector, and the diaspora. The diaspora brings not only financial investments but also intellectual capital, global networks, and innovative ideas. as an example, Indian-origin professionals in Silicon Valley can play a pivotal role in advancing India’s tech ecosystem. Similarly, diaspora entrepreneurs can help bridge gaps in sectors like renewable energy and healthcare. The key lies in creating an enabling environment that encourages their participation.
Archyde News Editor: what are your expectations from this year’s PBD? Are there any specific outcomes you hope to see?
Dr. Sharma: I hope this year’s PBD will result in concrete action plans, particularly in areas like skill development, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. The government should focus on creating platforms for diaspora youth to engage with India’s development agenda.Additionally, I would like to see more partnerships between Odisha and diaspora-led organizations to boost the state’s economy. Ultimately, the success of the PBD will be measured by how effectively it translates discussions into tangible outcomes.
Archyde News Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for your insightful perspectives. We look forward to seeing how the outcomes of this year’s PBD shape India’s future.
Dr. Sharma: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure discussing this critically importent event with you.
This interview was conducted by Archyde’s News Editor in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on January 9, 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and its impact on India’s global diaspora relations.
