With the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention just days away, the number of registrations has seen a significant rise, reflecting growing interest for the event set to take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 9 to 11, 2025.
Officials from the Department of Home, Government of Odisha, have noted that daily registration requests have increased to over 150, compared to just 40-50 requests a week ago. The state is aiming to attract 3,500 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from around 50 countries, with total attendance expected to reach around 7,500, including local participation.
“The majority of our tour and travel partners have confirmed increased cab and vacation stay bookings during the convention period. The numbers will only rise as the convention day nears,” said Gagan Sarangi, Chairman, Odisha Chapter of Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO).
The majority of registrations have come from NRIs in Southeast Asia, followed by those from Gulf countries and Europe. More than 30 countries are represented among the participants, with significant interest from Kerala, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.
This year marks the first time Bhubaneswar will host the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention. To coincide with the event, the state government has planned several cultural activities, including a night flea market, an Adivasi fair, and a food festival, designed to add to the cultural experience of the attendees.
Odisha aims to use the event as an opportunity to attract investments in sectors such as tourism and port-based infrastructure development.
The convention will begin on January 8 with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, followed by the official inauguration on January 9, 2025, by Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event will conclude on January 10, 2025, with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards ceremony, attended by Honourable President of India, Shrimati Droupadi Murmu, who will deliver the valedictory address.
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar is expected to highlight Odisha’s potential for growth and development, with a focus on tourism and infrastructure.
