Kumar Rakesh
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention commenced on Wednesday in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The three-day event will host over 5,000 delegates from India and abroad. The convention began with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas program and was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the transformational vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stated, “PM Modi has shifted India’s mindset from ‘chalta hai’ (it’s fine as it is) to ‘hoga kaise nahi’ (how can it not happen).”
During his speech, Jaishankar underscored the critical role of the youth in India’s progress, citing an example shared by badminton champion P.V. Sindhu. “Sindhu once explained why PM Modi is a role model for the youth, saying he transformed the nation’s attitude from ‘chalta hai’ to ‘badal sakta hai’ (it can change) and finally to ‘hoga kaise nahi,’” he said.
The minister emphasized the revolutionary contributions of the younger generation in areas like artificial intelligence, electric vehicle technology, startups, and sports. “Personal growth is complex, but with a belief that nothing is impossible, challenges become easier to overcome,” he remarked.
Jaishankar also appealed to members of the Indian diaspora to promote Indian tourism and encourage the younger generation of overseas Indians to visit India regularly to strengthen their connection with the country.
The PBD Convention, held from January 8-10, features the theme, “Contribution of Diaspora to Developed India.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the event on Thursday, while President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the valedictory session on Friday. President Murmu will also confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards to distinguished members of the diaspora for their achievements.
The President of Trinidad and Tobago, Christine Carla Kangaloo, will be the chief guest of the convention and will address the event virtually.
Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja stated that the state government is making every effort to showcase Odisha’s rich culture and heritage to delegates from 50 countries. “Every delegate will serve as an ambassador for Odisha tourism, and we are hopeful that our vibrant culture and legacy will attract tourists from across the globe,” he said.
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