Theme-based Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) conferences are conducted during the interim period to draw in experts, policymakers and stakeholders from the overseas diaspora
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha is preparing to host the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas for the first time. This three-day event, commencing on January 8, will see the participation of the President, Prime Minister, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and various Union ministers, alongside foreign delegates, including Presidents, Prime Ministers and ministers from other nations. The inaugural day will feature the Yuva Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, which will engage youth in meaningful discussions.
The main ceremony will take place on the second day, with VIP guests and delegates in attendance. The valedictory ceremony will be on January 10. On the second day, Modi will digitally flag off the Pravasi Bharatiya Tirtha Express from the venue. Plenary sessions will be organized on each day of the program to discuss various pertinent issues.
In the evening, cultural programs will be held at the venue. There are plans to take foreign delegates, guests and other officials on a tour to highlight Odisha’s tourist attractions, heritage and museums. They will carry a piece of Odisha with them upon their return.
The Chief Minister of Odisha has already given approval for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposal to host the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas at Janata Maidan. Security measures will be enhanced at the venue for the event, as approximately 5,000 participants from both India and abroad are anticipated to attend.
The central government is also conducting review meetings in preparation for the program. Officials from the central government have visited the event site and engaged in discussions with representatives from the Odisha government. To ensure effective management of the event, both a steering committee and an execution committee have been formed for this significant occasion.
Theme-based Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) conferences are conducted during the interim period to draw in experts, policymakers and stakeholders from the overseas diaspora. These gatherings serve as a forum for the Indian community abroad to interact with the government and citizens of India, promoting activities that are advantageous to both parties.
Since 2003, the PBD has been celebrated each year on January 9 to honor the contributions of the overseas Indian community to the nation’s progress. The most recent event took place in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
