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India Showcases Progress and Heritage at 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

3 minutes read

India Showcases Progress and Heritage at 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

3 minutes read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, highlighting India’s development trajectory and the cultural richness of the host state. Emphasizing the importance of heritage, PM Modi praised Odisha’s significant historical sites, including the Puri Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Dhauli Shanti Stupa, and Khandagiri-Udayagiri Caves. He noted the enduring legacy of maritime trade through festivals like Bali Yatra and emphasized Odisha’s spiritual contributions, especially Emperor Ashoka’s embrace of peace following the Kalinga War.

PM Modi reflected on India’s rise as the 5th largest economy and the substantial progress achieved over the last decade. With 25 crore people lifted out of poverty, India’s robust economic performance has become a global talking point. The PM expressed optimism about India soon becoming the world’s third-largest economy.

He highlighted India’s achievements in technology, renewable energy, and defense manufacturing, particularly “Made in India” initiatives such as fighter jets and transport aircraft. Space exploration milestones, like the success of Chandrayaan missions, also underlined the nation’s scientific capabilities. Furthermore, the PM mentioned initiatives aimed at equipping India’s youth with skills to meet global workforce demands, calling them the backbone of India’s development.

Calling the Indian diaspora “true ambassadors” of the country, PM Modi commended their contributions to global communities. He acknowledged their adherence to Indian social values while integrating into societies abroad, which has earned them widespread respect. The diaspora, he said, embodies democracy and diversity, two hallmarks of India’s identity.

He expressed gratitude for their role in enhancing India’s reputation, noting that the diaspora’s achievements often reflect positively on India in international discussions. Modi highlighted that their participation in events like the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas strengthens bonds with the homeland and fosters collective pride.

As the host state, Odisha stood out for its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The Puri Jagannath Temple was celebrated as a revered pilgrimage site, and the Konark Sun Temple was lauded for its architectural brilliance. PM Modi described Dhauli Shanti Stupa as a monument of peace, reflecting Emperor Ashoka’s transformation after the Kalinga War.

The PM also spoke about Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves, significant for their Jain heritage and artistry dating back to the 1st century BCE. Events like the Bali Yatra festival in Cuttack, commemorating Odisha’s ancient maritime connections with Southeast Asia, were acknowledged as vital to preserving historical memory.

PM Modi emphasized that India’s path is one of development and peace, not war. Referring to Odisha as the land of Lord Jagannath and a symbol of cultural harmony, he noted that the state continues to inspire India’s efforts for global leadership in peace and progress.

The Prime Minister called for collective contributions from Indians at home and abroad to achieve shared goals, including economic prosperity, technological advancement, and global leadership. With a focus on unity, heritage, and development, the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas became a celebration of India’s past achievements and its aspirations for the future.

The event reaffirmed the critical role of the Indian diaspora in shaping a global narrative of progress while showcasing Odisha’s timeless legacy as a beacon of culture, peace, and innovation.

 

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