President Droupadi Murmu Celebrates Indian Diaspora at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
In a heartfelt address at the recently concluded 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the lasting bond between the Indian diaspora and their home country. She highlighted how the contributions of Indians abroad in areas such as business, charity, and education are vital for realizing the dream of a developed India.
“Regardless of where you are in the world, Bharat will always be your home. This connection is built on shared culture and values, something we honor today. It will continue to motivate and guide us as we move forward together,” President Murmu remarked during her speech on January 10, 2025.
She encouraged the diaspora to reflect on their accomplishments and look to the future with optimism. “Together, we can create a Viksit Bharat—a nation that not only excels globally but also serves as a guiding light for others,” she stated.
President Murmu explained that this vision for a developed India aligns with the country’s growing influence on the international stage. She cited the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, meaning ‘The World is One Family’, as a guiding principle for this endeavor.
“This vision is not only about meeting our needs but also about fostering global well-being. We aspire to be a nation that harmonizes economic growth with social equity and environmental care, securing a brighter future for generations to come. Each of you, through your entrepreneurial spirit, charitable acts, or knowledge sharing, has a crucial role to play in this journey,” she added.
Acknowledging the important part the diaspora plays in nation-building, the President highlighted various initiatives taken by the Indian government. This includes simplifying consular services for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and digitizing processes for Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs).
The “Know India Programme” was mentioned as a way for young members of the Indian community abroad to reconnect with their roots.
“In recent times, we have made efforts to protect the interests of Indians living overseas. Initiatives such as Operation Kaveri, Operation Ganga, and Operation Vande Bharat have been launched to assist Indians in distress. Today, those living around the globe can rely on their homeland for support and protection during tough times,” President Murmu told attendees while also presenting the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.
In her closing remarks, she urged everyone to come together and contribute towards a better future for India and the world.
