India’s Diaspora: A Catalyst for Globalisation, Says Jaishankar at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Bhubaneswar (Odisha), January 8:
During the Joint Business Session held alongside the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored Odisha’s vital role in India’s global growth narrative. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the state’s untapped economic potential and positioned it as a critical driver in the nation’s developmental journey.
Referring to the concept of a “double engine” propelling progress, Jaishankar noted how Odisha’s strategic location, resources, and talent pool make it indispensable to India’s rise on the global stage. The External Affairs Minister called India’s diaspora a “living bridge” connecting the nation to the world, stating, “India will be unique as a major power rising by using its diaspora as an important pathway to globalisation and its ascent in the international order.”
Jaishankar emphasised three fundamental pillars of economic growth—Trade, Technology, and Tourism—urging Odisha to leverage these sectors for a transformative future.
Trade: Unlocking Odisha’s Potential
The Minister underlined the need for investments, infrastructure, and connectivity to capitalise on Odisha’s abundant resources. He stressed the importance of adding value to raw materials and strengthening trade ties, particularly with Southeast Asia, by utilising the state’s prime location along India’s eastern seaboard. “Resources need investments, facilities, and connectivity,” Jaishankar remarked, emphasising the importance of integrating Odisha’s economic strengths into India’s broader trade strategies.
Technology: Driving a Digital Economy
Focusing on the role of technology, Jaishankar pointed to Odisha’s young and skilled population, alongside its robust educational infrastructure. In the digital age, trust in technology has become synonymous with skilled talent, he observed. The Minister encouraged Odisha to harness its talent pool to create a thriving tech-driven economy, highlighting the potential for collaborations and advancements in the sector. “Technology is increasingly associated with trusted talent,” he noted, urging the state to prioritise its tech ecosystem.
Tourism: A Transformative Force
Describing tourism as a “multiplier” and a significant job generator, Jaishankar urged Odisha to capitalise on its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Investments in tourism, he argued, could drive sustainable economic development while creating long-term opportunities for local communities. He emphasised that tourism not only boosts the economy but also enhances Odisha’s global appeal, positioning it as a key player in India’s cultural and economic diplomacy.
Odisha and Purvodaya: Eastern India’s Renaissance
The Minister reaffirmed the Modi Government’s commitment to the “Purvodaya” initiative, which aims to revitalise Eastern India, with Odisha at its core. He assured that practical policies and infrastructure development would ensure the state’s growth aligns with the broader vision for Eastern India.
The Role of Leadership in Driving Growth
Jaishankar also spoke about the critical factors influencing business investment decisions, such as ease of doing business, political stability, and robust infrastructure. He commended the leadership of “Team Odisha,” expressing confidence in their ability to inspire trust among investors.
“Today, you have Team Odisha’s leadership in front of you. I am confident that it inspires as much confidence in you as it does in me,” he concluded, striking an optimistic tone for the state’s future.
This address at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas reinforced the integral role of India’s diaspora, Odisha’s potential, and the strategic direction of the Modi Government in driving the nation’s global aspirations.
