Odisha Government is set to host the prestigious 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) Convention from January 8 to January 10, 2025. As part of the preparation for this mega flagship event, the Govt of Odisha conducted a Bhumi Pujan ceremony today at Janta Maidan Bhubaneswar, marking the commencement of arrangements for the convention.

The ceremony was attended by Shri Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary of the Department of Industries, Shri Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Managing Director of IPICOL and IDCO, and other senior officials. The event marked the beginning of the auspicious Bhumi Pujan held at Janta Maidan, Bhubaneswar.

The 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) Convention, themed "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat", will be a landmark celebration of the global Indian community's role in nation-building. The convention will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, setting the stage for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. A dedicated youth edition, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, will foster engagement with young leaders of the diaspora.

The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will grace the valedictory session, where she will confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards to outstanding members of the Indian diaspora. The presence of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from across the globe will further elevate the significance of this grand festival, celebrating their invaluable contributions to India's growth and development.

Shri Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary of the Industry Department, Government of Odisha, provided an overview of the event’s structure while addressing the media. He highlighted that the event is expected to attract over 7,000 to 10,000 delegates, including international dignitaries and top Indian officials, under heightened security arrangements. "This mega event will showcase Odisha’s rich cultural heritage to the global audience and is particularly aimed at engaging the youth diaspora to contribute towards creating greater value for India," he remarked.

Mr. Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Managing Director of IPICOL and IDCO, shared insights about the meticulous arrangements being made for the event. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of various departments to ensure its success. "The government is working diligently to make this event a grand success. With participants joining from across the globe, special provisions for accommodations, smooth mobility, and comprehensive traffic management are in place. This event will mark a significant milestone in Odisha’s success story," he stated.

This event, a testament to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the commitment of Odisha’s Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, aims to strengthen connections with the global Indian diaspora and celebrate their contributions to nation-building.

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