Bhubaneswar, Jan 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on Thursday, applauding the Indian diaspora for being the nation’s “ambassadors to the world.”

Underlining India’s democratic legacy, he stated, “India is not just the ‘mother of democracy,’ but democracy is ingrained in our way of life.”

During the event, PM Modi virtually flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train launched under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. Starting from Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi, the train will tour various religious and tourist sites across India over three weeks, catering to the Indian diaspora.

The convention was graced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with other dignitaries. The program began with a captivating performance by three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej.

Highlighting the venue, EAM Jaishankar remarked that hosting the PBD in Odisha aligns with the Modi government’s “Poorvudaya” policy, reflecting the development and cultural richness of eastern India.

Welcoming the attendees, PM Modi added, “In this sacred land of Lord Jagannath and Lord Lingaraj, I extend my heartfelt welcome to the Indian diaspora worldwide. This celebration coincides with India’s vibrant festival season, including the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and Magh Bihu.”

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