External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar actively engaged with members of the Indian diaspora at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Delegates from countries like Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, and Kuwait attended the event, which serves as a platform to strengthen ties between India and its diaspora.
During his interactions, Jaishankar shared heartfelt messages on X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude to Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the attendees. “Privileged to spend this day in Odisha, surrounded by friends. Will be a cherished memory,” he wrote.
Diaspora’s Growing Importance
In his opening remarks, Jaishankar underscored the vital role of the Indian diaspora in nation-building. “This function is like a family reunion. Indians abroad can see the progress and development taking place in their country,” he said.
Jaishankar stressed the diaspora’s importance in a globalized era, noting their contributions to technology, tourism, trade, and investment. “The two-way flows you enable are invaluable,” he added.
He also highlighted improvements in consular services, digital technologies for welfare, and initiatives like streamlined passport renewals and grievance redressal platforms that benefit the diaspora.
Awardees Spotlight Social Impact
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Awardee Ajay Rane, recognized for community service in Australia, praised initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. He highlighted the issue of female foeticide and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s programs with saving millions of lives.
Similarly, awardee Sudha Rani Gupta from Russia emphasized the need for spiritual education. Having established over 60 Brahma Kumaris centers in Russia and other former Soviet states, Gupta spoke about promoting India’s ancient culture and heritage.
“This award inspires us to continue promoting India’s rich culture and spiritual roots, which are the essence of humanity,” Gupta said.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: A Global Event
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, organized by the Government of India in collaboration with the Odisha State Government, serves as a flagship event to engage the diaspora.
The 18th edition of the convention, themed “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” hosted delegates from over 50 countries. It runs from January 8 to 10 in Bhubaneswar, fostering connections and collaboration between India and its global community.
