The 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 has officially begun in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with over 6,000 non-resident Indians (NRIs) and persons of Indian origin (PIOs) from 75 countries gathering for this monumental event. Running from January 8 to January 10, this convention highlights the unbreakable bond between India and its global community, showcasing their indispensable role in shaping a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the event on January 9, marking a pivotal moment for the Indian diaspora. The convention will include insightful discussions, cultural exhibitions, and special initiatives designed to engage and celebrate the vibrant global Indian community.
Pravasi Bharatiya Express: A Unique Initiative
One of the highlights of the event will be the launch of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train designed to offer the Indian diaspora an immersive journey through India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. This initiative, part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering deeper connections with overseas Indians by offering them a firsthand experience of their ancestral homeland.
Significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Since its inception in 2003, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has been celebrated on January 9 to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa in 1915, a moment that catalyzed India’s struggle for independence. This annual event serves as a bridge between India and its diaspora, acknowledging their contributions across economics, culture, and global diplomacy.
Objectives of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025
The theme for this year, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”, reflects India’s ambitious vision of becoming a developed nation. The event seeks to:
- Strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora by promoting shared cultural and national identity.
- Recognize the diaspora’s economic and social contributions to India and their host countries.
- Foster discussions on policy matters, investment opportunities, and collaborative ventures.
- Highlight India’s diverse investment landscape, encouraging NRIs to play a pivotal role in India’s growth story.
Vibrant Indian Diaspora: A Global Asset
The Indian diaspora, numbering over 35.4 million, has been instrumental in driving global change. With 19.5 million persons of Indian origin and 15.8 million non-resident Indians, their collective influence spans continents. Notably, the United States hosts over 2 million persons of Indian origin, while the UAE is home to 3.5 million non-resident Indians, making them significant contributors to global remittances.
The Ministry of External Affairs has consistently worked to engage this vibrant community through events, welfare schemes, and collaborative projects, ensuring they remain connected to their roots while contributing to India’s global stature.
Bhubaneswar: The Perfect Host
This year, Odisha’s capital, Bhubaneswar, plays host to the event, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure. The festivities kicked off with the inauguration of the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandviya, and Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The convention also provides a unique platform for the Odisha government to highlight its strengths, attract investment, and build lasting connections with the global Indian community.
A History of Successful Conventions
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has evolved significantly over the years. The 15th edition in 2019, hosted in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, was a resounding success, while the 16th convention in 2021 adapted to a virtual format due to the pandemic. The 17th edition, held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, in 2023, saw participation from over 3,500 NRIs from 70 countries.
The 18th edition in Bhubaneswar is set to outshine its predecessors, offering a blend of tradition, innovation, and collaboration.
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