Bhubaneswar/New Delhi, Jan 10 (UNI) The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention (PBD), 2025, held in partnership with the Government of Odisha in Bhubaneshwar, from Jan 8-10, saw the participation of a large gathering of delegates from over 75 countries.
The PBD 2025 was the first PBD to be held in Eastern India. This approach is in line with Government of India’s focus on ‘Purvodaya’. Odisha has had historical maritime connections with South East Asia and these ties are being renewed and rekindled in contemporary times. As such, PBD 2025 in Odisha while deepening India’s connect with the diaspora also strengthens its ‘Act East Policy’.
As has been the tradition over the years, the first day of the Convention –January 8, was dedicated for the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas where the Guest of Honor was Dev Pragad, CEO, Newsweek. The first plenary of PBD 2025 titled, “Beyond Barriers: Diaspora Youth Leadership in a Globalized World” was chaired by Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports and Labour and Employment. Other Speakers included diaspora leaders from the areas of politics, business and academia.
A joint business session chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the business opportunities in the State and how global investors can take advantage of its economic and technological growth. Further, the Government of Odisha also organized two thematic sessions on Odisha titled: ‘Unraveling India’s Best Kept Secret’ and ‘Viksit Odisha: The Road Ahead’. The day ended with a mesmerizing cultural performance showcasing art forms from the State, a statement said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated PBD 2025 on January 9. The Chief Guest for PBD 2025, President of the Trinidad and Tobago, Christine Carla Kangaloo addressed the gathering virtually. During her address, she remembered with fondness and pride her Indian ancestry as well as the contribution of Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago. She highlighted India’s remarkable contribution to global growth and development.
Prime Minister Modi in his address, urged the Indian diaspora to contribute towards the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047. He also encouraged the diaspora members to make efforts towards preservation of diaspora history through initiatives such as digitalization of historical documents, films, documentaries and research. Prime Minister spoke about bringing together the diaspora under a Girmitiya Conference.
Further, Prime Minister urged the diaspora to travel within India, particularly to the Maha Kumbh 2025, and contribute towards the ‘Chalo India’ tourism campaign. Prime Minister as part of PBD 2025, flagged off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express remotely and also inaugurated exhibitions including, Vishwaroop Ram; Recording Diaspora History – Mandvi to Muscat; Diaspora’s Contributions to Technology and Viksit Bharat and Odisha’s Economic Progress and Heritage. Prime Minister also interacted with the winners of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award and the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz.
On Day two, plenary sessions titled ‘Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Stories of Migrant Skills’ and ‘Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contributions to Sustainable Development’ were held. The sessions were chaired by Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State for MSME, Labour and Employment and Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Railways respectively. Day two ended with a scintillating gala cultural performance titled ‘Celebration of Bharat’ organized by ICCR.
Day three commenced with plenary sessions titled: ‘Diaspora Divas: Celebrating Women’s Leadership and Influence – Nari Shakti’ which was chaired by EAM Jaishankar. EAM spoke about the various initiatives of the Government of India which have contributed towards women empowerment and Viksit Bharat vision. The second plenary session of the day was titled, ‘Diaspora Dialogues: Stories of Culture Connection and Belonginess’ Chaired by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister for Culture and Tourism.
During PBD 2025, EAM and other Union Ministers present interacted with diaspora groups from USA, UK, Qatar, Malaysia, Mauritius, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Myanmar, UAE among others.
The valedictory session of PBD 2025 was presided over by the President Droupadi Murmu. In her address, President Murmu expressed her appreciation for the indomitable spirit of the Indian diaspora. She made a special mention of the contribution made by women, students and the youth who she termed as the torch bearers for the future generations of the diaspora. She also spoke about the various efforts of the Government to enhance consular services and also called on the diaspora to actively participate in initiatives such as ‘Know India Program’. Citing recent evacuation operations undertaken by the Government, President emphasized that the Government of India has always prioritized support and protection of the diaspora.
President conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards on 27 individuals from 24 countries. PBD 2025 came to a close with a soulful santoor concert by Maestro Abhay Rustum Sopori, the statement added.
