21st century India is progressing at an incredible speed and scale: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha today. Welcoming all the delegates and diaspora from various parts of the world, Shri Modi expressed confidence that the inauguration song would be played in the various Indian diaspora events, across the globe, in future. He lauded the Grammy award winning artiste Ricky Kej and his team for the wonderful rendition which captured the emotions and feelings of the Indian diaspora. 

Thanking the Chief Guest, H.E. Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago for the warm and affectionate words in her video message, the Prime Minister remarked that she was also talking about India’s progress and her words left an impact on all of them present at the event. Noting that now was the time for vibrant festivals and gatherings in India, Shri Modi said that in a few days, the Maha Kumbh would commence in Prayagraj and the festival of Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal and Maag Bihu were also coming up. He added that there was a joyful atmosphere everywhere. Recalling that it was on this day in 1915, Mahatma Gandhiji returned to India after a long stay abroad, Shri Modi remarked that the presence of the diaspora in India at such a wonderful time added to the festive spirit. Remarking that this edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) was special for another reason, he said, the event was held after a few days of the birth centenary of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision was instrumental to PBD. “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora”, he further added. Shri Modi highlighted that together we celebrate India, Indianness, our culture and progress along with connecting to our roots.

“The great land of Odisha, where we have gathered, is a reflection of India’s rich heritage”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He added that at every step we could witness our heritage in Odisha. The Prime Minister remarked that everyone would be filled with pride when one visits the historical caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, or the magnificent Sun temple of Konark or the ancient ports of Tamralipti, Manikpatna and Palur. Noting that hundreds of years ago, the traders and merchants from Odisha  undertook long marine voyages to places like Bali, Sumatra and Java, the Prime Minister said that Bali Yatra is celebrated even today in Odisha in its memory. He further added that Dhauli, a significant historical site in Odisha, represented the symbol of peace. He also noted that Samrat Ashoka had chosen the path of peace here  while the world was expanding empires through the power of the sword. Shri Modi urged that this legacy inspires India to tell the world that the future lies in Buddha and not in war. Therefore, he remarked that welcoming everyone to the land of Odisha is very special for him.

The Prime Minister emphasized that he has always considered the Indian diaspora as ambassadors of India. Expressing his joy in meeting and conversing with fellow Indians around the world, he said that the love and blessings he receives from them are unforgettable and always stay with him.

Expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the Indian diaspora and thanking them for giving him the opportunity to hold his head high with pride on the global stage, Shri Modi highlighted that over the past decade, he had met numerous world leaders, all of whom have praised the Indian diaspora for their social values and contributions to their respective societies.

“India is not just the mother of democracy, but democracy is an integral part of Indian life”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He noted that Indians naturally embrace diversity and integrate seamlessly into the societies they join, respecting local rules and traditions. Shri Modi remarked that Indians serve their host countries with honesty, contributing to their growth and prosperity, while always keeping India close to their hearts. He added that they celebrate every joy and achievement of India with great enthusiasm.

Highlighting the incredible speed and scale of development in 21st century India, the Prime Minister remarked that in just 10 years, India had lifted 250 million people out of poverty and has risen from the 10th to the 5th largest economy in the world. He expressed confidence that India will soon become the 3rd largest economy.

Emphasising India’s achievements, such as the Chandrayaan mission reaching the Shiv-Shakti point, and the global recognition of Digital India’s strength, Shri Modi  stressed that every sector in India is advancing to new heights, breaking records in renewable energy, aviation, electric mobility, metro networks, and bullet train projects. He highlighted that India is now manufacturing “Made in India” fighter jets and transport aircraft. He envisioned a future where people will travel to India for Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in “Made in India” planes.

Underlining India’s growing global role due to its achievements and prospects, the Prime Minister said “Today’s India not only firmly asserts its own point but also strongly amplifies the voice of the Global South”. He highlighted the unanimous support for India’s proposal to make the African Union a permanent member of the G-20, emphasizing India’s commitment to “Humanity First.”

Shri Modi emphasized the global recognition of Indian talent, with professionals contributing to global growth through major companies. Extending his best wishes to those receiving the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman from President Droupadi Murmu, he highlighted that India will remain the world’s youngest and most skilled population for decades, meeting global skill demands. He stressed that many countries now welcome skilled Indian youth, and the Indian government is committed to ensuring that Indians going abroad are highly skilled through continuous skilling, re-skilling, and up-skilling efforts.

Stressing on the importance of convenience and comfort for the Indian diaspora and stating that their safety and welfare are top priorities, the Prime Minister remarked that “It is India’s responsibility to assist the diaspora during crisis situations, reflecting a key principle of India’s foreign policy”. He added that over the past decade, Indian embassies and offices worldwide have been sensitive and proactive.