The Essence of Democracy in Our Lives: PM Modi at the PBD Convention

Bhubaneswar, Jan 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention on Thursday in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and applauded the Indian diaspora for their role as the nation's ambassadors to the world.

Emphasizing the importance of India's democratic principles, he stated, "India is not merely the 'mother of democracy,' but democracy is embedded in our way of life."

PM Modi also virtually inaugurated the first journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a dedicated tourist train under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. This train, departing from Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi, will take members of the Indian diaspora to various religious and tourist sites across the country over a span of three weeks.

The inauguration was attended by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, Odisha's Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw, among other dignitaries. The event commenced with a performance by three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej.

EAM Jaishankar highlighted that hosting the PBD in Odisha is in line with the Modi government's "Poorvudaya" policy, which aims to showcase the development and cultural significance of eastern India.

Welcoming the Indian diaspora, PM Modi stated, "In this sacred land of Lord Jagannath and Lord Lingaraj, I extend my warm greetings to the Indian diaspora from around the globe. This is a time of vibrant festivals in India, including the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Makarsankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and Magh Bihu."

January 9 holds historical importance as it marks the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's return to India in 1915 after an extended stay abroad. He added, "Your presence here enhances the festive spirit of this occasion."

The Prime Minister recognized the contributions of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in founding the PBD, which has become an essential platform for strengthening ties between India and its diaspora.

"Together, we celebrate India, Indian-ness, our culture, progress, and our roots," he remarked.

Referring to Odisha's heritage, PM Modi said, "This land represents 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 his appreciation for the diaspora, he continued, "I have always regarded diaspora members as our nation's ambassadors. The love and respect I receive from you worldwide remain unforgettable."

PM Modi underscored how Indian values contribute to the global respect enjoyed by the diaspora.

"During the last decade, I have met numerous world leaders. Every leader acknowledges the contributions of the Indian diaspora. A significant reason for this is the social values that you instill in societies worldwide. We are not just the 'mother of democracy'; democracy is a fundamental part of our existence; our way of life embraces diversity naturally," he stated.

During the event, PM Modi also inaugurated four exhibitions: Vishwaroop Ram: The Universal Legacy of Ramayana by ICCR; Diaspora’s Contribution to Technology by MEA; Bharat Bharatiya: Swadesh Pardes - Abhilekhiye Virasat by the National Archives of India; and Heritage and Culture of Odisha by the Odisha government. He also visited promotional stalls showcasing contributions by Union Ministries and state governments.

The convention included a virtual address from Chief Guest Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Afternoon and evening sessions featured themes such as "Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Stories of Migrant Skills," chaired by Shobha Karandlaje, and "Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contributions to Sustainable Development," chaired by Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The closing session on Friday will feature final remarks by President Droupadi Murmu, who will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.

Founded in 2003 during the tenure of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a platform to acknowledge and engage with the overseas Indian community. Since 2015, it has transitioned into a biennial event, providing opportunities for focused discussions and networking among the global diaspora.