President of India, Droupadi Murmu, lauded the Indian Diaspora for being the “best of India,” and making significant contributions to important fields recognized globally. Speaking during the valedictory session of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) on January 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, she emphasized their role in advancing India’s legacy and values on the world stage.
“The Indian Diaspora represents the best of our country. You, the sons and daughters of Bharat, have carried with you not just the knowledge and skills acquired in this sacred land, but also the values and ethos that have been the foundation of our civilization for millennia,” said President Murmu. She further added, “Whether in the fields of technology, medicine, arts, or entrepreneurship, the Indian Diaspora has made a mark that the world acknowledges and respects.”
Honoring Global Achievements
President Murmu extended her congratulations to the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Christine Kangaloo, for receiving the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman 2025. “Excellency, your outstanding contributions in leading your nation, with a special focus on women and the Indian diaspora, has set a high benchmark on the world stage,” she remarked. She also noted that the recognition reflects the shared values and strong ties between the two nations.
President Murmu commended other recipients of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for their extraordinary achievements. She described the awards as India’s way of honoring their exceptional contributions, stating, their success stories are a source of pride for India and inspire millions worldwide to strive for excellence.
Strengthening Bonds with the Diaspora
President Murmu highlighted how PBD has evolved into a platform fostering collaboration and reinforcing ties between India and its global community. This event underscores the fact that while you may be physically distant from your homeland, your connections with Bharat remain as strong as ever, she added.
She underscored the Diaspora’s critical role in realizing India’s vision of Viksit Bharat—a developed India by 2047. “Your global presence gives you a unique perspective, and your achievements place you in a position to significantly contribute to the realization of a developed India,” she noted.
She added, “Our vision for Viksit Bharat aligns with our growing stature on the world stage, particularly as a leading voice for the Global South. It is guided by our timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or ‘The World is One Family.’”
She also commended the Government of Odisha for appointing a Nodal Minister for engaging with Pravasi Bharatiya for projects, and investments.
Global Outreach and Women’s Empowerment
President Murmu emphasized India’s proactive efforts in safeguarding its citizens abroad, citing successful missions like Operation Kaveri, Operation Ganga, and Operation Vande Bharat. She also praised the Odisha government for appointing a Nodal Minister to engage with the Diaspora for investment and development initiatives.
Commending the achievements of Indian women worldwide, she remarked their success is a “matter of immense pride as they break barriers and scale new heights in various fields.” She also acknowledged the dynamism of Indian youth, calling them the torchbearers of India’s future.
Celebrating Eternal Connections
Reflecting on the eternal bond between the Indian Diaspora and their homeland, she noted, No matter where they are in the world, Bharat will always be their home. This connection, rooted in shared heritage, culture, and values, is what we celebrate during Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
President Murmu concluded on a hopeful note: “As we celebrate the achievements of our Pravasi Bharatiya family, let us also look forward to the future with determination. Together, we can build a Viksit Bharat, a nation that stands tall on the global stage and continues to be a beacon of light for the world.”
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