Bhubaneshwar, January 11
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, held in partnership with the Government of Odisha in Bhubaneshwar from January 8 to 10, 2025, marked a significant milestone in fostering stronger ties between India and its diaspora. This was the first time the event took place in Eastern India, aligning with the Government of India’s focus on ‘Purvodaya’—the development of Eastern India. With a rich history of maritime connections to Southeast Asia, Odisha’s selection as the host state emphasized India’s renewed commitment to its ‘Act East Policy.’ Over 75 countries participated in the convention, underlining its global appeal.
Youth and leadership take centerstage on day 1
The convention began with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, where Dr. Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek, served as the guest of honour. The first plenary session, “Beyond Barriers: Diaspora Youth Leadership in a Globalized World,” chaired by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports and Labour and Employment, explored the transformative potential of youth leadership. Speakers from diverse fields like politics, business, and academia inspired the audience with their insights.
A joint business session led by India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted Odisha’s growing economic and technological prominence. Two thematic sessions titled “Unraveling India’s Best Kept Secret” and “Viksit Odisha: The Road Ahead” shed light on Odisha’s cultural heritage and its potential as an investment hub. The day concluded with a cultural performance that showcased Odisha’s rich art forms.
Prime Minister Modi’s visionary address on day 2
India’s Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the main event on January 9, 2025. In his address, he emphasized the diaspora’s crucial role in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He encouraged members to preserve diaspora history through digitalization and to unite under a proposed Girmitiya Conference.
A highlight of his speech was his call to the diaspora to actively engage in the ‘Chalo India’ tourism campaign by visiting India, particularly the Maha Kumbh 2025. PM Modi also remotely flagged off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express and inaugurated exhibitions showcasing India’s diaspora history, technological contributions, and Odisha’s economic progress and heritage.
The Chief Guest Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, joined virtually, reminiscing about her Indian ancestry and celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora in her nation. She lauded India’s global role in development and extended her wishes for the success of PBD 2025.
The day also featured insightful plenary sessions on “Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Stories of Migrant Skills” and “Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contributions to Sustainable Development,” chaired by Shobha Karandlaje and Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, respectively. A gala cultural event titled “Celebration of Bharat” concluded the day with performances curated by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Day 3: A celebration of women and cultural belonging
Day 3 commenced with a focus on women’s leadership through the plenary session, “Diaspora Divas: Celebrating Women’s Leadership and Influence – Nari Shakti,” chaired by Dr. S. Jaishankar. He detailed the government’s initiatives aimed at empowering women and emphasized their role in shaping a progressive India.
The second plenary session, “Diaspora Dialogues: Stories of Culture Connection and Belongingness,” chaired by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, delved into the diaspora’s cultural contributions and their enduring connection to India.
India’s Union Ministers and other dignitaries engaged with diaspora representatives from nations including the USA, UK, Qatar, Malaysia, Mauritius, and the UAE, emphasizing collaborative opportunities and fostering community connections.
A grand conclusion with focus on future generations
The valedictory session, presided over by President of India Droupadi Murmu, celebrated the indomitable spirit of the Indian diaspora. President Murmu highlighted the contributions of women, students, and youth as torchbearers of future generations. She also called upon the diaspora to engage with initiatives like the ‘Know India Program’ and praised the government’s efforts to enhance consular services and prioritize diaspora welfare during crises.
During the session, President Murmu conferred the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards on 27 distinguished individuals from 24 countries for their outstanding contributions. The event concluded with a soulful santoor recital by Maestro Shri Abhay Rustum Sopori, leaving attendees with a sense of pride and connection to their roots.
Odisha’s role in strengthening India’s global ties
Hosting PBD 2025 in Odisha symbolized more than a geographical shift; it was a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the East and reconnecting with its historical maritime legacy. The event’s focus on Odisha’s development and heritage not only attracted global attention but also positioned the state as a key player in India’s economic and cultural landscape.
The way forward
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 successfully celebrated the enduring connection between India and its diaspora while setting the stage for deeper collaborations in the future. The event highlighted the diaspora’s vital role in shaping a Viksit Bharat and reinforced the message that every member of the Indian diaspora, no matter where they reside, is an ambassador of India’s culture, values, and vision for the future.
A historic gathering
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, held in partnership with the Government of Odisha in Bhubaneshwar from January 8 to 10, 2025, marked a significant milestone in fostering stronger ties between India and its diaspora. This was the first time the event took place in Eastern India, aligning with the Government of India’s focus on ‘Purvodaya’—the development of Eastern India. With a rich history of maritime connections to Southeast Asia, Odisha’s selection as the host state emphasized India’s renewed commitment to its ‘Act East Policy.’ Over 75 countries participated in the convention, underlining its global appeal.