In Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened four exhibitions as part of the current 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations. The Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a unique tourist train devoted to the Indian diaspora, set off earlier in the day with a flag from the prime minister.

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the moment on X, writing, “Dekho Apna Desh. PM @narendramodi Ji flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special Tourist Train for the Indian diaspora.” Alongside the Prime Minister, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conveyed his excitement and emphasised the convention's core message: an inclusive, modernising and self-assured India. “Delighted to join PM @narendramodi, Governor Hari Babu, CM @MohanMOdisha, other dignitaries, and our Pravasi friends at the inaugural session of the 18th #PravasiBharatiyaDivas in Bhubaneswar, Odisha,” Jaishankar posted on X.

Jaishankar further said, “The takeaway from #PBD2025 will clearly be a Bharat that is confident, modernising and inclusive, where tradition and technology go hand in hand. Extend my best wishes for a productive convention.” In his speech at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's strong 21st-century development and its capacity to provide the world's skilled labour shortage.“21st-century India is progressing at an incredible speed and scale. For many decades to come, India will remain a country with the world’s most young and skilled population. India has the potential to fulfil the world’s demand for skilled talent,” he said. 

The Prime Minister also conveyed his sincere appreciation to the Indian diaspora for their steadfast assistance and contributions to improving India's standing internationally. I feel very happy when I meet you all. I never forget the love and blessings I have received from you. Today, I also want to thank you because, because of you, I get a chance to hold my head high,” he added. PM Modi acknowledged the diaspora's contribution to spreading Indian values across the globe, saying “In the last 10 years, I have met many world leaders, and they all appreciate the Indian diaspora in their respective countries. One big reason behind this is the social values you carry.”

PM Modi reaffirmed the government's dedication to the diaspora's safety and well-being, calling it a guiding principle of Indian foreign policy. “Your safety and welfare are our top priority. We consider it our responsibility to help our diaspora during crisis situations, no matter where they are,” he added. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar warmly welcomed PM Modi in Bhubaneswar, where he arrived to inaugurate the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. In collaboration with the Odisha government, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention honours the contributions of the Indian diaspora. The theme for this year, "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat," has drawn participants from more than 50 nations. An opportunity to link the diaspora with India's developmental objectives is provided by the convention, which is set for January 8–10.