North News
Bhubaneswar, January 9
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday praised Odisha’s legacy as a symbol of peace and a key inspiration for India’s global vision of a future rooted in Buddha’s teachings, not in war. Speaking at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention in Bhubaneswar, Modi noted that the region’s historical sites, including Dhauli, epitomized the shift from power through the sword to the path of peace, led by Emperor Ashoka.
The PBD event, held shortly after the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who played a pivotal role in the creation of PBD, focused on celebrating India’s progress and its deepening connection with its diaspora. Modi emphasized that the event not only celebrated India’s culture but also marked the continued strengthening of ties between India and its global citizens.
Odisha, a reflection of India’s rich heritage, was highlighted by the Prime Minister for its historical contributions, from the ancient caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri to the iconic Sun Temple of Konark. He also reminisced about Odisha’s traders who once sailed to Bali, Sumatra, and Java, celebrating the enduring memory of this maritime history through the annual Bali Yatra.
Modi recognized the global presence of the Indian diaspora as key ambassadors of India, lauding their contributions to their adopted countries and for always carrying India in their hearts. He noted that India, in just ten years, had uplifted 250 million people from poverty and is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy.
Reflecting on India’s achievements, including the Chandrayaan mission and Digital India, Modi pointed to the nation’s advancements in sectors like renewable energy, aviation, and manufacturing, noting that India now produces “Made in India” fighter jets and transport aircraft. He expressed optimism for a future where the diaspora would travel to India aboard “Made in India” planes.
The Prime Minister also underlined India’s growing influence on the global stage, citing the country’s support for African nations and advocating for the Global South. He emphasized that India’s progress benefits the world, with Indian professionals contributing significantly to global growth.
Modi also spoke about India’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of its diaspora, highlighting the expansion of consular services with new embassies and the widening scope of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. He stressed that India’s foreign policy places the safety and welfare of its diaspora at the forefront, ensuring they are supported in times of crisis.
In addressing the diaspora’s legacy, Modi urged for the preservation and sharing of their stories, such as the “Girmitiya” families who migrated across the globe. He proposed a university chair to study this legacy, alongside organizing World Girmitiya Conferences. The Prime Minister also called for a new database to trace the origins of the diaspora, turning their remarkable journeys into films and documentaries.
Further, Modi encouraged the diaspora to connect with India’s heritage through initiatives like the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, which will take participants to significant destinations in India. He also announced the establishment of Thiruvalluvar Culture Centers globally to spread the teachings of the Tamil poet.
In his concluding remarks, Modi called on the diaspora to contribute to India’s development by supporting “Made in India” products and planting trees in their mothers’ names, symbolizing their connection to India. He wished all attendees a prosperous 2025 and invited them to return to India to witness its progress.
