External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Highlights India's Progress in Ease of Business, Digital Welfare, and Global Connectivity, Urges NRIs & PIOs to Support Odisha's Role in Trade, Technology, and Tourism for Viksit Bharat

At the opening of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in Bhubaneswar, India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, addressed the global Indian diaspora, emphasizing the growing importance of their role in a rapidly globalizing world. He celebrated the cultural richness of India and the strengthening relationship between India and its overseas citizens, alongside a strong vision for a modern, inclusive Bharat.
The Growing Influence of the Indian Diaspora
In his address, Jaishankar underscored the importance of the Indian diaspora in the globalized world, emphasizing their role in areas like technology, trade, investment, and tourism. He acknowledged how the two-way flow of ideas, resources, and expertise by the diaspora has strengthened India’s global position.
Jaishankar also highlighted the government’s efforts to create an enabling environment for the diaspora. Reforms in business regulations, ease of living, and enhanced travel and connectivity are designed to benefit both Indians in India and abroad.
Jaishankar Assures Indian Diaspora of Government Support Amid Challenges, Highlights Their Role in Global Growth
At the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the vital role of the Indian diaspora in shaping global economies and communities. He assured the diaspora that the Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is fully committed to supporting them, especially during challenging times abroad. “We’ve got your back,” Jaishankar emphasized.
Jaishankar underscored the growing significance of the diaspora, noting how their contributions in sectors like technology, trade, investment, and tourism are driving global progress. He emphasized that the two-way exchange of resources, ideas, and innovation between India and its diaspora is more valuable than ever in today’s interconnected world.
The minister’s message reinforced India’s strong, supportive stance on the international stage, acknowledging that the diaspora’s achievements are an integral part of India’s global influence and success. The government remains dedicated to fostering the growth and welfare of its global community, ensuring they continue to thrive worldwide.
Jaishankar Highlights Odisha’s Strategic Role in India’s Growth at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025
At the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 in Bhubaneswar, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized Odisha’s crucial role in shaping India’s “Look East” policy, noting the historical significance of the state in connecting India to Southeast Asia. Jaishankar referred to the Bali Yatra, which once linked India’s eastern coast with Southeast Asia, as a key foundation for India’s growing international relations today.

He acknowledged that one of the first priorities of the Modi government in its third term was to advance the “Purvodaya” initiative, focusing on unlocking the potential of Eastern India. Jaishankar pointed to Odisha’s immense promise in three key sectors: Trade, Technology, and Tourism, which he referred to as the “3Ts.”
Odisha’s Trade Potential
Jaishankar highlighted Odisha’s natural resources and stressed that turning these into global trade opportunities requires investments, enhanced infrastructure, and better connectivity. With the eastern seaboard becoming increasingly integral to India’s global trade, Odisha is set to be a key player in boosting India’s international trade relations.
Leveraging Technology for Growth
On the second pillar—Technology—Jaishankar spoke about the increasing role of digital advancements in global collaboration. He noted that trust plays a pivotal role in the tech industry today and that leveraging technology could foster stronger international partnerships and business opportunities.
Tourism and Culture as Drivers of Development
The minister also praised Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, highlighting its religious festivals, archaeological sites, and ancient traditions as integral to India’s identity and progress. He urged Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to actively engage in the country’s development journey toward a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), reinforcing the government’s commitment to a modern, inclusive, and prosperous India.
Jaishankar’s address at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas reinforced the significant role of the diaspora in India’s future growth and urged them to play an active part in realizing India’s vision as a global leader.
Empowering the Indian Diaspora: Modi Government’s Reforms and Global Connectivity
At the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, S. Jaishankar emphasized how the Modi government’s reforms are benefiting the Indian diaspora. These reforms improve the ease of doing business, ease of living, and connectivity for Indians abroad.
He highlighted advancements in digital technologies and consular services, making processes like passport renewal and attestation smoother. Jaishankar reassured that the Modi government is always there to support the diaspora during difficult times.