Modi lauds Indian diaspora as nation’s ‘ambassadors to the world’

Prime Minister inaugurates 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas; says India is not just 'mother of democracy,' but democracy is ingrained in our way of life

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention on Thursday in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and commended the Indian diaspora for serving as the nation’s “ambassadors to the world.” Highlighting the significance of India’s democratic ethos, he remarked, “India is not just the ‘mother of democracy,’ but democracy is ingrained in our way of life.”

PM Modi also remotely flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. Departing from Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi, the train will take Indian diaspora members to various religious and tourist destinations across the country over three weeks.

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The event was attended by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, and Ashwini Vaishnaw, among other dignitaries. It began with a performance by three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej. EAM Jaishankar emphasised that hosting the PBD in Odisha reflects the Modi government’s “Poorvudaya” policy, showcasing the development and cultural richness of eastern India.

Welcoming the Indian diaspora, PM Modi said, “In this sacred land of Lord Jagannath and Lord Lingaraj, I welcome the Indian diaspora from across the world. This is a time of vibrant festivals in India, from the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj to Makarsankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and Magh Bihu. “January 9 also holds historical significance as it marks the day Mahatma Gandhi returned to India in 1915 after a long stay abroad. Your presence here adds to the festive spirit of this occasion,” he said.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in establishing the PBD, which has evolved into a vital platform to strengthen bonds between India and its diaspora. “Together, we celebrate India, Indian-ness, our culture, progress, and our roots,” he said.

Highlighting Odisha’s heritage, PM Modi said, “This land reflects India’s rich legacy, with sites like the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, the Konark Temple, and ancient ports such as Tamralipti and Manikpatna. These treasures evoke immense pride.” Expressing gratitude to the diaspora, he added, “I have always considered diaspora members as our nation’s ambassadors. The love and respect I receive from you worldwide remain unforgettable.”