Bhubaneswar, January 4: Preparations for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), set to be held for the first time in Odisha's capital, Bhubaneswar, are progressing rapidly. The event will take place at Bhubaneswar's Janata Maidan from January 8 to 10.
The Odisha government has made extensive arrangements for the grand event, including the setting up of control rooms and helplines to ensure smooth coordination. To assist attendees, the Commissionerate Police has introduced a special mascot, "HAPFY," alongside a chatbot to provide real-time support during the event.
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is set to be a landmark celebration, highlighting the achievements of the Indian diaspora and their continued connection to India. Dignitaries and expatriates from around the world will gather in Bhubaneswar to participate in this prestigious event.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Bhubaneswar at 8 p.m. on January 8, aboard a special IAF aircraft. This will be his first visit to Odisha in 2025, and he will attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 9.
In terms of safety, the event organizers have implemented stringent fire safety measures at the venue. Over 200 personnel, 30–35 vehicles, and specialized equipment from Odisha Fire and Emergency Services have been deployed to ensure the safety of all attendees. The venue has been divided into segregated areas, including a dedicated section for the Prime Minister, each with enhanced security protocols. A control room, a mother control room, and eight backup fire stations will operate around the clock to ensure preparedness.
A major highlight of the event will be the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) 2025, which will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu during the valedictory session.
A total of 27 individuals will be honored for their outstanding contributions to India and the global community. The PBSA recognizes Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and organizations led by them, celebrating their exceptional achievements across various sectors.
The awardees, selected by a distinguished jury, represent the best of the Indian diaspora and underscore their significant role in shaping the global landscape.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is held annually to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915. Initiated in 2003, the event celebrates the contributions of the overseas Indian community to India’s growth and development. Since 2015, the event has been held biennially to further strengthen the ties between the Indian government and the diaspora, fostering a deeper reconnection to their cultural roots.
