EAM Jaishankar praises the diaspora as a bridge between India and the world
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged with members of the Indian diaspora from over 50 countries during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention held in Bhubaneswar from January 8-10, 2025. The three-day event, held in collaboration with the Odisha state government, celebrated the contributions of the Indian diaspora under the theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.”

EAM Jaishankar praised the diaspora’s role as a bridge between India and the world, emphasising their contributions to technology, tourism, trade, investment, and cultural preservation. In his remarks, he said, “In a globalized era, the diaspora becomes more important with each passing year. The two-way flows you enable, whether in technology, resources, or tourism, are critical to building a global workplace and enhancing India’s development.”

During the event, he addressed the government’s initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the diaspora. This included simplifying passport issuance, streamlining consular services, and creating effective grievance platforms to address concerns. “In times of difficulties, you can be confident that the Modi Sarkar has your back,” he assured the attendees.

The convention also provided a platform for awardees of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman to share their inspiring contributions. Ajay Rane, an awardee from Australia recognized for his community service, highlighted the importance of female empowerment and his efforts to combat female foeticide. “This award is for those women whose daughters were murdered. The ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative has made a significant difference,” he said.

Sudha Rani Gupta, an awardee from Russia, spoke about the significance of spiritual education in addressing modern challenges. Gupta, who has established over 60 Brahma Kumaris centers in Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union, emphasized India’s cultural contributions to the world. “Spiritual education is a must in today’s world. Our ancient culture has the answers to many contemporary problems,” she remarked.

EAM Jaishankar highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and its importance in India’s history. He described the hosting of the convention in Odisha as a reflection of the government’s Purvodaya policy, aimed at the development of India’s eastern states. “Odisha represents the full richness of our history and culture. From the spiritual experience of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath ji to the architectural marvel of the Konark temple, Odisha is a treasure trove of tradition and identity,” he said.

Linking Odisha’s historical significance to contemporary policies, EAM Jaishankar pointed to the Bali Yatra, a maritime festival that commemorates ancient trade links, as a precursor to India’s Act East Policy. “When we define ourselves as an Indo-Pacific nation, we do so from the eastern seaboard of Odisha,” he stated, urging the diaspora to nurture India’s heritage, traditions, and identity.

In his remarks, he also acknowledged the challenges facing the world and the role of India in navigating these uncertainties. “The message you will take away from this occasion is of a Bharat that is more confident, modernizing, and inclusive. Where tradition and technology go hand in hand. Each one of you, in your own way, can make a difference to the realization of Viksit Bharat,” he said.

The convention emphasized the diaspora’s role as a vital partner in India’s development journey. EAM Jaishankar discussed the government’s efforts to promote ease of living, ease of doing business, and better connectivity for the diaspora. He cited the application of digital technologies, such as online passport renewals and improved consular services, as examples of initiatives that benefit Indians abroad.

EAM Jaishankar’s engagements with delegates from countries such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, and Kuwait underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening ties with the diaspora. Sharing updates on social media, he expressed gratitude for the delegates’ participation and highlighted the sense of unity fostered by the event. “This function is like a family reunion; Indians living abroad are able to see and experience for themselves the progress and development taking place in their country,” he said.

The convention featured cultural showcases, interactive sessions, and discussions on the diaspora’s contributions to India’s growth. Delegates explored ways to leverage their expertise and resources to enhance India’s global presence and domestic development.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention has grown into a significant platform for connecting the Indian diaspora with their homeland. This year’s event reinforced India’s soft power and its ability to influence global discussions on development and culture.

As the convention concluded, EAM Jaishankar’s message of optimism and confidence resonated with the audience. “The diaspora’s achievements are a source of pride for all Indians. You are ambassadors of our culture and values, and your contributions strengthen our global identity,” he said.

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention showcased the enduring bond between India and its diaspora, celebrating their achievements and charting a path for deeper engagement. With its focus on collaboration and cultural pride, the event reinforced the diaspora’s role as integral partners in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation.