PMINDIA

The Governor of Odisha, Dr. Hari Babu Ji, our popular Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi Ji, my fellow member of the Central Cabinet S. Jaishankar Ji, Jual Oram Ji, Dharmendra Pradhan Ji, Ashwini Vaishnav Ji, Shobha Karandlaje Ji, Kirti Vardhan Singh Ji, Pabitra Margareta Ji, Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo Ji, Pravati Parida Ji, other ministers, MPs, and MLAs, all sons and daughters of Mother Bharati who have come from across the world!

Ladies and gentlemen! On this holy land of Lord Jagannath and Lord Lingaraj, I welcome my Indian diaspora family from all over the world. The welcome song that was sung at the beginning, I am completely confident that this welcome song will be played again and again in the future, wherever Indian community events are held across the world. Congratulations to you. Your team has expressed the spirit of a Non-Resident Indian beautifully, congratulations to you.

Friends,

We just heard from the Chief Guest of this Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas. The video message of the President of Trinidad and Tobago, Her Excellency Christine Kangaloo left an impact on all of us. She too was speaking about India’s progress. I thank her for the warm and affectionate words.

Friends,

This is a time of vibrant festivals and gatherings in India. In just a few days, the Mahakumbh will start in Prayagraj. The festivals of Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal and Magh Bihu are also coming up. There is a joyful atmosphere everywhere. Further, it was on this day, in 1915, that Mahatma Gandhi Ji came back to India after a long stay abroad. Your presence in India at such a wonderful time is adding to the festive spirit. This edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas is special for an additional reason. We have gathered here just a few days after the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. His vision was instrumental to this programme. It has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora. Together, we celebrate India, Indianness, our culture, our progress and connect to our roots.

Friends,

The land of Odisha, where you have gathered today, is also a reflection of India’s rich heritage. In Odisha, at every step, we come across our heritage. Whether it is the historical caves of Udayagiri-Khandagiri, the Sun Temple of Konark, the ancient ports of Tamralipti, Manikpatna, and Palur, seeing these fills everyone with pride. Centuries ago, our traders and businessmen from Odisha used to embark on long sea voyages to places like Bali, Sumatra, and Java. In memory of that, even today, the Bali Jatra is celebrated in Odisha. It is here in Odisha that the place called Dhauli stands, which is a great symbol of peace. When the world was in an era of expanding empires through the sword, our Emperor Ashoka chose the path of peace here. This strength of our heritage is what inspires India today to tell the world that the future lies not in war, but in Buddha (भविष्य युद्ध में नहीं है, बुद्ध में है). Therefore, it becomes very special for me to welcome you all to this land of Odisha.

Friends,

I have always considered the Indian diaspora as ambassadors of India. I feel immense joy when I meet all of you from around the world, when I converse with you. The love I receive from you is something I can never forget. Your affection, your blessings always stay with me.

Friends,

Today, I want to personally express my gratitude to all of you, and I also want to say Thank you. Thank you because of you, I get the opportunity to hold my head high with pride in the world. Over the past 10 years, I have met many leaders from around the world. Every world leader praises the Indian diaspora, all of you. A big reason for this is the social values that all of you add to the societies there. We are not just the “Mother of Democracy,” but democracy is a part of our life, it is our way of living. We don’t have to be taught diversity; our life itself runs on diversity. That’s why wherever Indians go, they integrate with the society there. Wherever we go, we respect the rules and traditions of that place. We serve that country, that society with utmost sincerity. We contribute to their growth and prosperity. And alongside all of this, India continues to beat in our hearts. We rejoice in every happiness of India, and we celebrate every achievement of India.

Friends,

The India of the 21st century, the pace at which it is progressing today, and the scale at which development is happening in India is unprecedented. In just 10 years, India has lifted 250 million people out of poverty. In just 10 years, India has moved from being the 10th largest economy in the world to the 5th largest economy. The day is not far when India will become the 3rd largest economy in the world. The world is witnessing India’s success today. When India’s Chandrayaan reaches the Shiv-Shakti point, we all feel proud. Today, when the world is astonished by the power of Digital India, we all feel proud. Today, every sector in India is moving forward to touch the sky. Whether it is renewable energy, aviation ecosystems, electric mobility, the vast metro network, or the bullet train project, the pace of India’s progress is breaking all records. Today, India is making “Made in India” fighter jets, transport aircraft, and the day is not far when you will come to India for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in a “Made in India” plane.

Friends,

These achievements of India, the prospects that are emerging in India today, are contributing to India’s growing global role. Today, the world listens attentively to India. Today’s India not only strongly puts forth its point but also raises the voice of the Global South with full strength. When India proposed to make the African Union a permanent member of the G-20, all members supported this proposal. With the spirit of “Humanity First,” India is expanding its global role.

Friends,

India’s talent is being celebrated worldwide today. Our professionals are contributing to global growth through the major companies of the world. Tomorrow, many of our colleagues will be honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman by the esteemed President of India, Draupadi Murmu Ji. I extend my best wishes to all the distinguished individuals who will be receiving this honor.

Friends,

You know, for many decades to come, India will remain the country with the youngest and most skilled population in the world. It is India that will fulfill a significant portion of the global demand for skills. You must have noticed that many countries around the world are now welcoming India’s skilled youth with open arms. In such a scenario, the Government of India is also striving to ensure that whenever any Indian goes abroad, they do so with excellent skills. That’s why we are continuously focusing on skilling, re-skilling, and up-skilling our youth. We give great importance to your convenience and comfort. Your safety and welfare are a top priority. We consider it our responsibility to help our diaspora during crisis situations, no matter where they are. This is one of the guiding principles of India’s foreign policy today. Over the last decade, our embassies and offices worldwide have been sensitive and pro-active.

Friends,

Earlier, in many countries, people had to travel long distances to access consular facilities. They had to wait for days for help. Now, these problems are being solved. In just the last two years, fourteen embassies and consulates have been opened. The scope of OCI cards is also being expanded. It has been extended to PIOs of the 7th generation of Mauritius and 6th generation of  Suriname martinique and guadeloupe.

Friends,

The history of the Indian diaspora spread across the world, their journey to various countries and their stories of raising the flag of India in those lands, is an important part of India’s heritage. You have many such interesting and inspiring stories, which need to be shared, showcased, and preserved. These are our shared legacy, our shared heritage. Just a few days ago, I spoke in detail about an initiative related to this in my “Mann Ki Baat” address. Several centuries ago, many families from Gujarat settled in Oman. Their 250-year journey is truly inspiring. An exhibition related to this has also been set up, showcasing thousands of documents related to this community that have been digitized. Additionally, an ‘Oral History Project’ was undertaken with the senior members of the community, many of whom are quite elderly now, sharing their experiences. I am happy that many of these families are present here with us today.

Friends,

Such efforts should also be made with the diaspora in different countries. For example, we have our “Girmitya” brothers and sisters. Why not create a database of our Girmitya community? We should identify which villages and cities in India they came from, where they went and settled, and also recognize those places. What kind of life they led, how they turned challenges into opportunities—this can be portrayed through films or documentaries. A study on the Girmitya legacy could be conducted, and research could be carried out. Universities could establish chairs for this, and we could organize the World Girmitya Conference at regular intervals. I will ask my team to explore the possibilities of this and work towards taking it forward.

Friends,

Today’s India is moving forward with both development and heritage under this mantra. During the G-20, we held meetings across the country so that the world could have a first-hand experience of India’s diversity. We proudly organize events like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, Kashi-Telugu Sangamam, Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam, and others. Just a few days from now, we will celebrate Saint Thiruvalluvar Day. Our government has decided to establish Thiruvalluvar Culture Centers to spread the teachings of Saint Thiruvalluvar. The work for the first center in Singapore has already begun. A Thiruvalluvar Chair is also being established at the University of Houston in the USA. All these efforts are taking Tamil language, Tamil heritage, and India’s heritage to every corner of the world.

Friends,

We have also taken numerous steps to connect our heritage sites in India. For example, there is a special Ramayana Express train for visiting places associated with Lord Ram and Mata Sita. The Bharat Gaurav trains also connect important heritage locations across the country. With our semi-high-speed Vande Bharat trains, we have connected major heritage centers of the country. A little while ago, I had the opportunity to inaugurate a special Pravasi Bharatiya Express train. Around 150 people will travel on this train to visit seventeen tourism and faith-related destinations. There are also many places in Odisha that you should definitely visit. The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is starting soon, and such an opportunity doesn’t come often in life. You should also visit there.

Friends,

In 1947, India gained independence, and our diaspora played a significant role in this. They contributed to India’s freedom while living abroad. Now, our target is 2047. We have to make India a developed country. You are still making an outstanding contribution to India’s growth. Thanks to your hard work, India has become the number one country in the world for remittances. Now, we must think beyond this. You invest not only in India but also in other countries. Our GIFT City ecosystem can help fulfill your financial services and investment needs. All of you can benefit from it and further strengthen India’s journey towards development. Every effort you make will strengthen India and help in its growth.

One such sector is heritage tourism. Currently, India is known around the world primarily through its large metro cities. But India is not limited to these big cities. A large part of India is in tier-2, tier-3 cities, and villages, where you can witness India’s heritage. We need to connect the world to this heritage. I urge you to take your children to these smaller cities and villages in India. Then, share your experiences with your friends once you return. I would also like to suggest that the next time you come to India, bring at least five friends who are of non-Indian origin with you. Inspire your friends where you live to visit India, to experience India.

Friends,

I have one appeal, especially to all the young friends of the diaspora. Participate in the quiz to learn more about India. This will help you understand India better. You should also make sure to benefit from the ‘Study in India’ program. The ICCR scholarship scheme is another great opportunity that the youth of the diaspora should take advantage of.

Friends,

In the countries where you live, you must also take the lead in spreading India’s true history. The current generation in many countries doesn’t know about our prosperity, the long period of slavery, and our struggles. You can help share India’s true history with the world.

Friends,

Today, India is known as the ‘Vishwa Bandhu’. To further strengthen this global connection, you need to increase your efforts. For example, in the country where you live, you can organize award functions. These awards can be for the local residents of the country you live in. You can honor prominent individuals from various fields, whether it be literature, arts and crafts, film, theater, or any other sector. Invite these achievers and present them with awards and certificates on behalf of India’s diaspora. The Indian embassy and consulate in that country will be more than happy to assist you. This will strengthen your personal connection with the people of that country and deepen your emotional bond with them.

Friends,

You also play a significant role in making local products global. Make sure to buy something like “Made in India” food packets, clothes, or any other product. If some items are not available in your country, order them online. Include Made in India products in your kitchen, your drawing room, and as gifts. This will be a great contribution from all of you in building a developed India.

Friends,

I have one more appeal related to Mother and Mother Earth. A few days ago, I visited Guyana, where I participated in an initiative with the President to plant a tree in the name of our mother. Millions of people in India are already doing this. Wherever you are, I urge you to plant a tree or a sapling in the name of your mother. I believe that when you return from India, the resolution of building a developed India will accompany you. Together, we will build a developed India.

May 2025 bring prosperity to all of you, whether in health or wealth. I wish you all a prosperous and fulfilling year ahead. Once again, I warmly welcome you all to India and offer my heartfelt greetings.

Best wishes, and thank you very much.