PM Modi Inaugurates 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention on Thursday in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The convention, organized by the Central Government in collaboration with the Odisha State Government, takes place from January 8 to 10, focusing on the theme “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.”
Upon his arrival in Bhubaneswar, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
During the inaugural ceremony, the Prime Minister remotely flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. Over three weeks, this train will travel from Delhi to various religious and tourist destinations across India.
PM Modi also inaugurated four exhibitions, which include:
- “Vishwaroop Ram: The Universal Legacy of Ramayana” by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)
- “Diaspora’s Contribution to Technology” by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
- “Bharat Bharatiya: Swadesh Pardes” by the National Archives of India
- “Heritage and Culture of Odisha” by the Odisha State Government
Delegates from over 50 countries have registered for this convention. Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, delivered a virtual address as the Chief Guest.
The convention features thematic sessions such as “Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Stories of Migrant Skills” and “Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contributions to Sustainable Development.” The valedictory session on Friday will include President Droupadi Murmu’s closing remarks and the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards presentation.
