The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) took place from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the nation’s growth and development. This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” underscored the importance of the global Indian community in shaping India’s future.
The convention was declared open by the Minister of external affairs of India Dr.S. Jayshanker and the Chief minister of Orissa Hon. Mohan Chanran Majhi with the participation of various Union and state ministers and commenced with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, featuring discussions on youth leadership and its impact on global issues. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the main event on January 9, emphasizing that PBD has become an institution for strengthening bonds between India and its diaspora. He remarked on the significant role that Indians abroad play in enhancing India’s global presence and fostering collaboration for a prosperous future.
Throughout the three-day event, various sessions addressed critical topics, including sustainable development, women’s empowerment, and cultural connections. The plenary sessions featured prominent leaders and experts discussing how the diaspora can contribute to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.In addition to formal discussions, the event showcased vibrant cultural performances that celebrated India’s rich heritage. The Gala Cultural Show on January 9 captivated attendees with classical and folk dances from across India, further highlighting the diverse cultural tapestry that binds Indians worldwide.
On January 10 with a valedictory session led by President Droupadi Murmu, participants felt with renewed enthusiasm for strengthening ties within the diaspora and between nations. The event not only served as a platform for discussing important issues but also reinforced the idea that collective efforts can lead to significant advancements in both India and the world over.
A highlight of the event was the invitation extended by the government of India to Kishore Reddy, the President of the Indian CEO Forum and Past President of the Sri Lanka India Society, as a plenary speaker. His participation not only brought valuable insights into the role of business leaders in Sustainable development by fostering diaspora engagement but also symbolized the strengthening ties between India and Sri Lanka. Reddy’s address focused on enhancing economic collaboration and cultural exchanges, reinforcing the notion that people-to-people connections are vital for mutual sustainable growth. The presence of Kishore Reddy as a plenary speaker from Sri Lanka is particularly noteworthy as it reflects a commitment to enhancing Sri Lanka-India relations. His leadership role within both countries’ business communities positions him uniquely to advocate for collaborative sustainable initiatives that benefit both nations. The dialogue fostered during PBD is expected to pave the way for increased investment opportunities and cultural exchanges between India and Sri Lanka.
Invited as a plenary speaker from Sri Lanka, Mr. Reddy’s presence underscored the deep and enduring ties between India and Sri Lanka. His address on green connections and sustainable development focused on growth with sustainability and also focused on the mutual benefits of collaboration between the two nations, emphasizing shared cultural heritage, trade partnerships, and the pivotal role of the diaspora in strengthening bilateral relations. Mr. Reddy’s address was met with resounding applause as he articulated a vision of unity and progress with sustainable development. As a prominent person with a unique understanding of both Indian and Sri Lankan societies, Mr. Reddy’s insights resonated deeply with the audience.
The participation of Kishore Reddy as a plenary speaker at the Pravasi Bharathiya Divas 2025 from Sri Lanka also underscored the growing importance of India-Sri Lanka relations in the contemporary geopolitical landscape. Over the years, both nations have shared a bond that transcends diplomatic ties, rooted in shared cultural and historical legacies. Mr. Reddy’s leadership and advocacy for closer ties have been instrumental in fostering collaboration and goodwill between the two nations. His speech at PBD 2025 served as a reminder of the potential for even greater partnership in the future.
This year’s Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was not just a celebration of the diaspora but also a testament to India’s commitment to engaging with its global community to tackle shared challenges and create opportunities. The event included a series of panel discussions, cultural programs, and networking sessions, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora from around the world. Themes such as sustainable development, technological innovation, and youth engagement were central to the discussions. The state of Orissa also showcased all its tourist attractions for the 8000+ delegates including the famous Sun temple of Konark.
As the curtains closed on Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025, the event left a lasting impression on all who attended. It not only celebrated the achievements of the Indian diaspora but also reinforced the importance of global unity and collaboration. The presence of thought leaders like Kishore Reddy highlighted the transformative power of dialogue and cooperation in shaping a brighter future for India, its diaspora, and its neighboring nations.
With events like these, India continues to build bridges across borders, strengthening its relationships with the global community. The 2025 edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar was a shining example of how such platforms can inspire, connect, and pave the way for a more interconnected and prosperous world.
A contingent of around 40 people from Sri Lanka including the president and the office bearers of the Global Organisation of People Of Indian Origin in Sri Lanka (GOPIO) also attended the event, engaging in meaningful interactions with all global delegates. These exchanges not only deepened personal connections but also significantly strengthened the bond between the two nations and the people of India and Sri Lanka, paving the way for further collaboration and mutual growth.