Bhubaneswar: The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, held from January 8-10, 2025, marked a historic first for Eastern India as Odisha hosted the event in partnership with the Government of India. The convention aligned with the nation’s focus on ‘Purvodaya’ and the state’s maritime heritage, reinforcing India’s ‘Act East Policy.’
Day 1: Spotlight on Youth and Odisha’s Opportunities
The event began with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 8, featuring Dr. Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek, as the Guest of Honor. The first plenary session, chaired by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, focused on “Beyond Barriers: Diaspora Youth Leadership in a Globalized World.” External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi jointly led a business session highlighting Odisha’s economic and technological growth.
Odisha-specific sessions showcased the state’s cultural and developmental strides through themes like “Unraveling India’s Best Kept Secret” and “Viksit Odisha: The Road Ahead,” followed by a captivating cultural performance.
Day 2: Prime Minister Modi’s Vision and Diaspora Engagement
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the convention on January 9. In his address, he urged the diaspora to contribute to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 (Viksit Bharat 2047). He encouraged preserving diaspora history through digitization and invited the diaspora to join campaigns like ‘Chalo India’ and the Maha Kumbh 2025.
Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo, the Chief Guest, addressed the gathering virtually, reflecting on her Indian ancestry and the diaspora’s global contributions. Exhibitions highlighting diaspora history, technological advancements, and Odisha’s heritage were also inaugurated.
Plenary sessions on migrant skills and sustainable development, chaired by Union Ministers, emphasized the diaspora’s role in India’s progress. The day ended with a vibrant gala cultural event, “Celebration of Bharat.”
Day 3: Honoring Contributions and Future Visions
The final day celebrated women’s leadership in “Diaspora Divas: Nari Shakti” and cultural connections in “Diaspora Dialogues.” External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat led the discussions.
President Droupadi Murmu presided over the valedictory session, lauding the diaspora’s resilience and contributions, especially by women and youth. She emphasized the government’s efforts to enhance consular services and urged active participation in initiatives like the ‘Know India Program.’
The President also honored 27 individuals from 24 countries with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, acknowledging their outstanding contributions. The convention concluded with a mesmerizing santoor performance by Maestro Abhay Rustum Sopori.
A Milestone for Eastern India
With participation from over 75 countries, PBD 2025 in Odisha strengthened India’s ties with its diaspora and showcased the state’s potential as a hub for economic and cultural development.
