PM Modi’s Appeal to Diaspora at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the Indian diaspora to join hands in making India a developed nation by 2047. At the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, PM Modi highlighted the diaspora’s vital role in India’s independence. He noted their ongoing contributions to the country’s development.

Inauguration of Pravasi Bharatiya Express

PM Modi and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw opened the Pravasi Bharatiya Express during the event. This special tourist train is provided to those people of Indian origin who fall in an age group between 45 to 65 years. The train can hold up to 156 passengers. The Indian diaspora will visit tourist, historic, and religious sites in India for three weeks. The journey starts from the Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi.

Meaning of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas honors the Indian diaspora‘s contributions to their homeland. This day is special because it marks Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915 after years abroad. PM Modi emphasized that the diaspora’s presence in India adds to the joy of the festival.

PM Modi’s Speech

PM Modi welcomed the diaspora in his speech. He thanked them for their role in India’s freedom struggle and in building the nation. He claimed the world pays attention to India and its interests. The country’s views on the Global South matter too. PM Modi said India’s strength comes from its heritage. He believes the future is about peace, not war, and that peace is symbolized by Buddha.

PM Modi also called the diaspora ambassadors of India to the countries that they reside in. He assured them that it is the responsibility of the Indian government to help the diaspora in times of crises where-ever they may be. He also stressed that governments are working to help Indian youths abroad gain the right skills.

External Affairs Minister’s Speech

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar thanked the diaspora for helping build the nation. He pointed out how the Narendra Modi government acted to keep the diaspora safe when needed. He compared the event to a family reunion. He stressed that the diaspora plays a key role in keeping the flow of people, ideas, trade, and investment going in our globalized world.

Exhibitions and Cultural Showcases

The event also included several exhibitions that reflected India’s vibrant and diverse culture. These were:

• Vishwaroop Ram – The Universal Legacy of Ramayana: This exhibition highlights the enduring Ramayana with traditional and modern art.
• Diaspora’s Contribution to Technology and Viksit Bharat: The Indian diaspora has significantly boosted technology globally.
• Spread and Evolution of Indian Diaspora:  Showcasing a few rare documents of people who left Mandvi in Gujarat for Muscat in Oman.
• Cultural Heritage of Odisha: Explore the rich heritage and cultural traditions of Odisha. Discover various art and craft forms that showcase its beauty.

Final Thoughts

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar highlighted the important role of the Indian diaspora in India’s growth. PM Modi asked the diaspora to help with Mission Viksit Bharat by 2047. This shows the government’s goal for a developed and prosperous India. The event honored the diaspora’s achievements. It also brought India and its global community closer together.

After the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the Ministry of External Affairs launched the Global Pravasi Connect Portal. This digital platform aims to boost ties with the Indian diaspora in 110 countries. Launched in May 2025, the portal lets Pravasi Bharatiyas register for cultural exchanges. They can join nation-building efforts and participate in quarterly talks with Indian ministries about diaspora development. The platform connects with the Pravasi Bharatiya Express train booking and feedback system. By early June, more than 1.3 lakh diaspora members signed up. This is a big step for building diaspora partnerships for Viksit Bharat 2047.