Seeking deeper engagement of the Indian diaspora for the country's growth, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said a whole lot of possibilities are awaiting them in India as it has risen with new strength. In his address at the 13th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in Gandhi Nagar, he said the whole world is looking at India with great expectations and what is needed is confidence and capability. Describing Indian diaspora as great capital for the country, the Prime Minister appealed to the community of over 25 million people living in over 200 countries to help transform the nation. Mr Modi said, he is convinced that people of Indian origin are our capital and strength and if the government focuses on this segment, they can create a lot of respect for the country globally.
Referring to merging of the PIO and OCI cards through a recent Ordinance and extending visa on arrival facilities for several countries, the Prime Minister said his government has fulfilled the promises made to them. Mr Modi said after becoming Prime Minister he had the opportunity to meet over 50 Heads of State and all wanted greater engagement with India.
Minister of overseas Indian and External affairs, Sushma Swaraj said that the Indian diaspora is respected in the countries they live in for their discipline, work culture and contribution to that country's economy. She said that Narendra Modi government is determined to work closely with the diaspora and engage with them for rewarding partnership. Gujarat Chief Minster Mrs. Anandiben Patel also hailed Indian diaspora for their contribution in the development of country. The chief guest of the inaugural session, Guyanese President Donald Ramotar and South African Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane have also spoken on the occasion and reiterated their strong bonding with India. AIR correspondent reports that more than 4 thousand delegates are participating in 13th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas which focuses on enhancing networking and reinforcing commercial linkages.
India will provide 60 million dollars Line of Credit -LoC to Guyana for its road infrastructure projects. This was announced by the Spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry Mr.Saiyad Akbaruddin at a media briefing in Gandhinagar this evening. He said that this line of credit is given for construction of a road project and passenger ferry service to help the country in tackling its transport problem. Prime Minister Narendra Modi today gave the nod for LoC during the bilateral talks with Guyana President Donald R. Ramotar on the sidelines of the 13th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in which Guyana President has been invited as a chief guest.
Former diplomat and eminent international analyst Prof. S.D. Muni has said, this year’s Pravasi Bhartiya Divas is different from the event held so far. Participating in AIR programme spotlight and news analysis, he said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has added new dimension to this year’s Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. These programmes can be heard immediately after this bulletin.
