PBD Convention is already taking place & Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 is scheduled for January 28
Tejeswar Patnaik
The Odisha Government is hosting two mega events in Bhubaneswar this month i.e. 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention and the Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025. These events hold immense significance, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate both, highlighting their importance on the national and global stage.
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is already taking place from January 8 to 10 in Bhubaneswar. This event, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Odisha Government, is expected to be a grand success. Approximately 7,500 delegates from across the globe will participate, making it one of the largest gatherings of the Indian diaspora in recent years. Odisha’s selection as the host state is in line with the Modi Govt’s emphasis on the eastern region of India aimed at addressing regional imbalance.
The three-day-long event holds historical significance, as it commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on January 9, 1915. Gandhi’s return marked a turning point in India’s freedom struggle, as he introduced his philosophy of non-violent resistance, which became a cornerstone of India’s fight for independence. The Chief Guest of this year’s convention is Christine Carla Kangaloo, the President of Trinidad and Tobago. She will deliver her address virtually on January 9.
This year’s theme, ‘Diaspora’s Contribution to Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India), reflects the crucial role the Indian diaspora plays in shaping India’s future. The inaugural convention in the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the address by the President of India in the valedictory session, hold testimony to the prime importance of overseas Indians in nation-building.
The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that 27 eminent members of the diaspora will be honored with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award during the concluding session. These awards recognize exceptional contributions in fields such as education, medicine, commerce, and social welfare.
In addition, non-resident Indians (NRIs) have a significant contribution to India’s economy. The data on inward remittances reveal that in FY24, Indians living abroad sent a record $107 billion in remittances, crossing the $100 billion mark for the second consecutive year.
According to the World Bank’s ‘Migration and Development Brief,’ India has been the leading country in the world in remittance receipts for over two decades. This growth has been driven by the migration of skilled professionals, particularly in software and technology sectors, to countries in North America, Europe, and the Middle East since the 1990s.
Additionally, NRI deposits in Indian banks saw a sharp rise in the first half of FY25, nearly doubling to $10.2 billion compared to $5.41 billion during the same period in 2023, according to the data of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Apart from remittances, NRIs contribute to India’s growth through entrepreneurship, knowledge-sharing, and philanthropic efforts. Their investments in sectors such as real estate, healthcare, and education, create a ripple effect that boosts job creation and overall economic growth.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas offers a unique platform for Odisha to showcase its rich cultural heritage and economic potential. The state, known for its architectural splendor, art, dance, and vibrant handicrafts leaves no stone unturned in ensuring the event’s success. Visitors will have different experiences of Odisha’s vibrant traditions, art forms, and natural beauty, making them ambassadors for the state’s tourism and industrial growth.
Exhibitions during the event will feature traditional arts, the contributions of the Indian diaspora, and Odisha’s culture and heritage. To promote tourism, the state government has developed an action plan that includes visits by NRIs to 21 prominent destinations major temples, eco-retreats, and Buddhist sites like Lalitgiri and Ratnagiri. Guests will also witness migratory birds at Chilika Lake and enjoy music and dance festivals being organized in Bhubaneswar.
Odisha’s abundant natural beauty, with wildlife sanctuaries like Similipal and Bhitarkanika, and unexplored historical destinations, adds to its tourism appeal. By developing tourism infrastructure and encouraging investments, the state can unlock its potential for economic growth. A focus on professionalism, infrastructure development, and collaboration with stakeholders can position Odisha as a leading tourist destination, boosting employment opportunities and increasing the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).
The other significant summit is the Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 scheduled for January 28, which will focus on highlighting Odisha’s rich mineral resources, marine economy, and other potentials as a global investment hub. This event will bring together industrialists, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, with an estimated 3,000 participants.
It is worthwhile to mention here that Odisha has set an ambitious target to secure investments worth ₹5 lakh crore over the next five years. The state has already approved 20 industrial projects with a total investment of ₹1.36 lakh crore. These projects span diverse sectors such as steel, chemicals, green energy, and textiles, and are expected to create over 74,000 jobs. However, it needs to be ensured that such projects do not result in ecological degradation.
The High-Level Clearance Authority (HLCA), chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has fast-tracked these projects to ensure implementation in a time-bound manner. Odisha’s rich natural resources, strategic location, and business-friendly policies make it an attractive destination for global investors.
While the events present immense opportunities, the Odisha Government must address key challenges to maximize their impact. A professional approach to project approvals and timely clearances will be crucial to avoid delays. Investors should feel supported through a robust system that simplifies procedures and ensures transparency.
The state must prioritize projects that create jobs for local youth and are environmentally sustainable. At the same time, the rural populace especially in the backward regions of the state should benefit from economic growth. State Government should address rising unemployment while ensuring long-term growth and development.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention and the Utkarsh Odisha Summit offer the state government a golden opportunity to strengthen its global image and attract investments. These events not only highlight Odisha’s cultural heritage and tourism potential but also showcase its industrial and economic strengths.
With meticulous planning and execution, the state can leverage these platforms to drive long-term growth. By focusing on infrastructure, professionalism, and sustainability, Odisha can emerge as a model for other states and secure its position as a global investment and tourism hub.
(The writer is a former Dy General Manager of Bank of India. Views expressed are personal.)
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