The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), a significant event celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora, will be held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8th to 10th, 2024. Thousands of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from across the globe are expected to attend this mega-event, marking the first time the PBD is hosted in eastern India.
This shift in venue underscores the Indian government’s commitment to its “Purvodaya” initiative. Launched to foster comprehensive development in eastern India (encompassing Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal), Purvodaya aims to leverage the region’s rich cultural heritage to transform it into a network of thriving economic hubs, aligning with the government’s “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) vision. The 2024 Union Budget formalized this plan, outlining strategies to achieve this ambitious goal.
Odisha’s selection as the host state is particularly apt. The state possesses abundant mineral and natural resources, along with a strong presence in mining, iron and steel manufacturing, marine economics, sports, skill development, and the knowledge economy. Several major Indian IT companies have already established operations within the state. The PBD provides a unique platform to showcase Odisha’s strengths and potential to a global audience.
Odisha’s historical maritime connections with Southeast Asia further enrich the significance of this event. Ancient trade routes linked Odisha with distant lands, evidenced by the enduring legacy of the Bali Yatra and strong cultural ties with Sri Lanka. The PBD convention will highlight these historical links and ongoing efforts to revitalize them.
Beyond celebrating the diaspora’s achievements, the event will feature exhibitions on the Ramayana, technology, and the diaspora itself. The Ramayana exhibition, for instance, will explore the epic’s journey across Southeast Asia and its continued cultural resonance in the region. The PBD will also illuminate how the diaspora has acted as a powerful vehicle for promoting Indian culture, values, and ethos worldwide.
The concept of “Purvodaya” was initially proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 during the inauguration of an Indian Oil Corporation Limited refinery in Paradip, Odisha, foreshadowing the current focus on the region’s development.