On Wednesday, the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention began in Bhubaneswar, with the inauguration of the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
During the inauguration, EAM Jaishankar emphasized the importance of engaging the younger generation of the Indian diaspora as part of the PBD celebrations.
He further acknowledged the significant contributions of young people both in India and globally, highlighting their role in shaping the future.
EAM Jaishankar stated, “At home, we have just started our journey towards Viksit Bharat in the Amrit Kaal. This is an endeavor that is very much about the future generation.”
Additionally, he pointed out that the Indian government is focused on motivating the youth to accelerate progress and innovation.
EAM Jaishankar, quoting badminton star PV Sindhu, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has transformed India from ‘chalta hai’ to ‘badal sakta hai’ to ‘hoga kaise nahin?’.
He also encouraged delegates to promote India as a top tourism destination globally.
“Let me take the opportunity to urge you on behalf of Prime Minister Modi to promote India as a tourism destination. If young Indian PIOs bring their equally young friends from abroad to explore our uniquely rich and diverse heritage and culture, this will surely become a lifelong habit,” said the External Affairs Minister.
The EAM expressed pleasure at the increasing popularity of the ‘Know India Programme’ and ‘Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz’ among the diaspora.
“This state offers a tremendous opportunity to experience personally much of what we would be discussing in the course of the PBD. Its cultural festivals and religious and archaeological sites are a reminder of why we in India consider ourselves to be a civilizational society,” Jaishankar noted.
CM Majhi, the chief guest at the event, warmly welcomed the delegates to the land of Jagannath and the temple city of Bhubaneswar.
“I hope the PBD convention, which is being held in Bhubaneswar for the first time, will ever remain a cherished memory for you and us. The bridge of this relationship will further strengthen in the coming days,” the Chief Minister remarked.
He added that the PBD convention honors the invaluable contributions of Indians globally and aims to explore new opportunities for brotherhood and collaboration.
CM Majhi also stated that hosting the prestigious event in Odisha was a great honor and pride.
Describing the diaspora as ‘cultural ambassadors’ and the ‘pride’ of India, the Chief Minister asserted, “It is a confluence of ideas, cultures and achievements that showcase the strength of global Indian identity. Friends, today we celebrate the exceptional contributions of our 30 million Indians living across 200 countries.”
He reiterated that the diaspora’s contributions have brought India international recognition.
“From being the frontrunners in science and technology to leading global corporations to setting global policies in governments across the world, the Indian Diaspora has demonstrated resilience and excellence,” CM Majhi noted.
Prime Minister Modi will formally inaugurate the main PBD event on Thursday, with around 5,000 delegates likely to attend. President Droupadi Murmu will participate in the valedictory session on Friday.
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