Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the legacy of Emperor Ashoka inspires India to tell the world that the future lies in Buddha, not in war.
Inaugurating the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, Modi highlighted the rich heritage of Odisha, describing it as a reflection of India’s glorious past.
He noted that Dhauli, a significant historical site in Odisha, symbolizes peace, as it was here that Emperor Ashoka chose the path of non-violence while others expanded empires through the power of the sword.
The Prime Minister urged that this legacy should inspire India to promote the message of peace and harmony globally. He also expressed his pleasure in welcoming everyone to Odisha, a land close to his heart.
Modi remarked that visitors to Odisha would be filled with pride when exploring its historical treasures, such as the caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, the magnificent Sun Temple of Konark, or the ancient ports of Tamralipti, Manikpatna, and Palur.
He recalled that centuries ago, traders and merchants from Odisha undertook long marine voyages to places like Bali, Sumatra, and Java, a tradition commemorated even today through the Bali Yatra festival.
The Prime Minister lauded Indians for their ability to embrace diversity and integrate seamlessly into societies around the world while respecting local customs and traditions. He emphasized that Indians serve their host countries with honesty and dedication, contributing to their growth while keeping India close to their hearts.
Highlighting India’s remarkable progress in the 21st century, Modi mentioned that in just a decade, the nation had lifted 250 million people out of poverty and risen from the 10th to the 5th largest economy in the world. He expressed confidence that India would soon become the third-largest economy.
Emphasizing India’s achievements, such as the Chandrayaan mission reaching the Shiv-Shakti point and the global recognition of Digital India’s strength, the PM stated that every sector in the country is advancing to new heights.
He cited records being broken in renewable energy, aviation, electric mobility, metro networks, and bullet train projects. Modi proudly noted that India is now manufacturing “Made in India” fighter jets and transport aircraft and envisioned a future where people would travel to Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in “Made in India” planes.
“India is not just the mother of democracy; democracy is an integral part of Indian life,” the PM declared.
He emphasized that modern India firmly asserts its voice on the global stage and amplifies the concerns of the Global South. Modi highlighted the unanimous support for India’s proposal to make the African Union a permanent member of the G-20, underscoring India’s commitment to the principle of “Humanity First.”
