President Murmu Highlights Importance of Indian Diaspora at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
BHUBANESWAR: At the closing session of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention on January 10, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the essential role of the Indian diaspora in realizing India’s aim of becoming a developed nation by 2047. During this significant event, she presented the esteemed Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.
In her speech, President Murmu acknowledged the diaspora’s valuable contributions in various sectors such as technology, medicine, arts, and business. She praised the award recipients, noting that their accomplishments inspire millions and elevate India’s global image.
Among the honored guests was Her Excellency Christine Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, whom President Murmu recognized as a remarkable leader advocating for women and the Indian community abroad.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a crucial platform to strengthen connections between India and its global citizens, fostering collaboration and idea exchange. President Murmu called on the overseas Indian community to join this national mission, embracing the idea of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," which means the world is one family. She encouraged them to contribute to economic growth, social equity, and environmental care.
Before concluding, President Murmu expressed optimism for the future, urging the diaspora to come together in building a prosperous India that shines on the world stage.
The three-day convention, which attracted over 3,000 delegates worldwide, covered various topics, including youth engagement, women’s empowerment, and investments. It featured sessions like “Diaspora Divas,” celebrating women’s leadership, and “Diaspora Dialogue,” exploring themes of culture and belonging.
Notable speakers included Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who led the discussion on women’s leadership, and Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who moderated the “Diaspora Dialogue” session.
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties with the global community, President Murmu highlighted the growing recognition of India’s progress since gaining independence in 1947. She expressed gratitude for the contributions of the diaspora in presenting a positive image of India internationally.
The event culminated in the presentation of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards to 27 distinguished individuals from 24 nations, including Christine Kangaloo. Ravi Kumar, an award recipient from Odisha, expressed appreciation for the efforts to connect the diaspora with India.
Other awardees included individuals recognized for their exemplary work in various fields such as community service, education, and business across countries like Australia, Japan, Mauritius, and the USA.
The closing ceremony was attended by several esteemed guests, including External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. A Santoor concert by Abhay Rustum Sapori added a musical flair to the event, while the Chief Minister announced an extension of an exhibition on Odisha for local visitors.
