New Delhi, Jan 9 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended warm greetings to Indians living abroad on the occasion of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, describing the Indian diaspora as a “powerful bridge” between India and the world and lauding their role in promoting Indian culture globally.
In a message posted on X, the Prime Minister stated that the diaspora had enriched societies worldwide while remaining deeply connected to their roots in India.
“The Indian diaspora remains a powerful bridge between India and the world. They have enriched societies wherever they went and, at the same time, stayed connected to their roots,” PM Modi said.
Reiterating the government’s long-held view of overseas Indians as key ambassadors of the country, the Prime Minister added, “I often say that our diaspora is our Rashtradoots, who have popularised the culture of India globally.”
PM Modi also underlined the steps taken by his government to strengthen ties with the global Indian community. “Our Government has taken numerous steps to bring our diaspora even closer to India,” he said, without detailing specific initiatives in the message.
Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas is celebrated annually on January 9 to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa to India in 1915, a moment considered symbolic of the contributions of overseas Indians to the nation’s freedom struggle and development. The day recognises the achievements and contributions of the Indian diaspora, which numbers over 30 million and is spread across continents.
Over the years, successive governments have used the occasion to engage with overseas Indians through conventions, policy outreach, and diaspora-focused initiatives, including easier travel norms, consular reforms, and platforms for economic and cultural engagement. Under the Modi government, large diaspora events, outreach programmes, and initiatives such as the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) facilitation have been highlighted as part of efforts to deepen bonds with Indians living abroad.
The Prime Minister’s message comes amid preparations for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, which brings together members of the diaspora, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss India’s global engagement and the role of overseas Indians in the country’s growth story.
