Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. Welcoming the Indian diaspora and guests to the event, he said, “This occasion is being celebrated to honour the invaluable contributions of Indians worldwide and to explore new opportunities for brotherhood and collaboration. Hosting this prestigious event here in Odisha is a matter of immense honour and pride for us.”
Describing the convention as a confluence of ideas cultures and achievement that showcase the strength of global Indian identity, Majhi said, “Friends, today we celebrate the exceptional contributions of over 30 million Indians living across 200 countries. You are our cultural ambassadors embodying the essence of India in your host nations and you are our pride. When you excel abroad we rejoice here.”
From being front-runners in science and technology to leading global corporations to shaping policies in governments across the world the Indian diaspora has demonstrated resilience and excellence, he said, adding, top business leaders like Gopichand Hinduja and LN Mittal, CEOs like Indira Nooyi, Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella, scientists like Venkat Ramakrishnan, fashion designers like Bibhu Mohapatra, have brought immense pride for our mother land.
“You have embraced the cultures of your adopted home countries while nurturing and sharing the values of India-values rooted in family community and humanity.”
This year’s theme “Diaspora’s contribution to a Viksit Bharat” recognises and celebrates the contributions of Indian Diaspora in building a Viksit Bharat in the Amrit Kaal.
“Allow me to take you on a walk through Odisha the land that warmly welcomes you today. Odisha is a land of timeless heritage. Odisha is a treasure trove of history culture and natural beauty. From the majestic Sun Temple at Konark, to the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri, our state is home, to some of the most iconic landmarks of Indian civilization,” the Chief Minister said.
“I would like all of you to explore nature’s secrets in Odisha and take a little bit of Odisha along with you. While Odisha’s past is steeped in history its present is defined by transformation and progress.”
“Today Odisha stands as a leader in mining and industries such as steel, aluminium, while emerging as a hub for sports, IT and Skill Development and Skilled in Odisha is a preferred brand name,” he said, adding, “We have been making significant strides, in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, ensuring inclusive growth and sustainable development. Our recognition as a sports powerhouse is testament to our commitment to excellence.”
He extended an open invitation to the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and rediscover the magic of Odisha. “Whether it is through cultural exchanges business ventures or educational collaborations we welcome your ideas, investments, and entrepreneurship. In Odisha opportunities abound in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, infrastructure development, education, and tourism.”
“We also value, the role of the diaspora in promoting Brand Odisha globally. You are our ambassadors bridging cultures and creating opportunities, for Odisha on the world stage,” the Chief Minister concluded.
