Bhubaneswar: Extensive preparations are underway for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) to be held in Odisha’s capital, Bhubaneswar, from January 8 to 10, 2024.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra chaired a preparatory meeting today, attended by MLAs, Mayor Sulochana Das, and senior officials.
Speaking to the media, Minister Mohapatra highlighted the significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, which commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915. Initiated in 2003, the event celebrates the contributions of overseas Indians to India’s development and has been held biennially in a revised format since 2015.
“This is a golden opportunity to showcase Odisha’s culture, history, and heritage on a global platform,” the Minister said, emphasizing the pride of hosting the event. He mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to promote Odisha during his international engagements, including a recent interaction in Kuwait with a youth from Ganjam.
The three-day event will feature dignitaries including Home Minister Amit Shah at the inauguration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the second day, and President Droupadi Murmu for the closing ceremony. Over 5,700 expatriate Indians and delegates from 140 countries are expected to participate.
The state government is pulling out all stops to ensure a grand event. The Home and Tourism Departments are coordinating preparations in key tourist hubs like Cuttack, Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Konark. Bhubaneswar has been beautified extensively, and 50 new buses, including 5 double-decker buses, will be deployed for transportation.
Principal Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Smt. Usha Padhi, provided an overview of preparations across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Khordha districts. Key officials, including MLAs, the BMC Commissioner, and the Collectors of Khordha, Puri, and Cuttack, are overseeing arrangements.
The Tourism Department is preparing accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses, to host overseas guests. Security has been tightened by Odisha Police to ensure a smooth event.
The event will be a platform to highlight Odisha’s rich culture, traditions, and heritage, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
