NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasised India’s role as a global advocate for peace, asserting that the world now listens to the country due to its rich heritage and cultural ethos.
Speaking at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar, PM Modi highlighted India’s ability to champion a future rooted in Buddha’s teachings rather than conflict.
PM Modi said, “Due to the strength of its heritage, India is able to tell the world that the future does not lie in war, but in Buddha (peace)”.
“India is not only the mother of democracy, but democracy is part of our lives,” PM Modi added. He also underscored how India’s strength allows it to voice its views and those of the Global South with conviction.
The Prime Minister referred to the diaspora as India’s “Rashtradoots” (ambassadors), applauding their role in promoting Indian ethos globally while integrating seamlessly into their adopted nations. “Your value systems make world leaders admire the Indian diaspora. You connect with society, respect local traditions, and still keep India alive in your hearts,” PM Modi remarked.
Addressing the diaspora’s historical significance, PM Modi noted their role in India’s independence in 1947 and called on them to contribute toward transforming India into a developed nation by 2047.
The convention, themed “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” was organised in partnership with Odisha’s state government, reflecting the state’s heritage as a testimony to India’s art, culture, and ancient maritime connections.
PM Modi also highlighted Odisha’s historical ties with regions like Bali, Sumatra, and Java and invoked King Ashoka’s turn toward peace, aligning it with India’s present-day ideology.
The Prime Minister also lauded improvements in consular services and outreach to the diaspora, stating that India’s embassies and missions have become more proactive over the past decade.
“We consider it our responsibility to help our diaspora during crisis situations no matter where they are,” he said. “The government is trying to ensure that whenever Indian youths go abroad, they go with skills”, PM added.
He credited former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his vision in establishing Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, now a platform to strengthen bonds with the diaspora.
With large participation from over 50 countries, the convention celebrated India’s cultural unity and progress, urging the diaspora to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future.
