Dhanada K Mishra, Hong Kong, 8 January 2025
My friend Ashok Paikray ran a tea stall at the gate of Utkal University in Bhubaneswar. He is a post graduate from the same University and we worked together several years ago for the education NGO, Pratham, in the Read Odisha campaign. I have had several stop overs to have a cup of tea early morning on my cycle rides. Recently, Ashok’s tea stall along with several thousand other such roadside stalls were demolished as part of the beautification drive to welcome several thousand Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who were expected in the city to attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD).
The upcoming PBD in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8 to 10, 2025, promises to be a grand celebration of the contributions made by NRIs to India’s development. This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” emphasizes the vital role that the Indian diaspora plays in the country’s growth. The event will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister and concluded by the President of India. Many dignitries including ministers of central and state government will attend. The Chief Minister of Odisha is personally looking after all arrangements so that the guests can have the best experience possible during their visit.
Bhubaneswar all decked up for Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
As someone who has spent significant time in the USA, Australia, and Hong Kong as an NRI, I am compelled to question whether this is indeed the best way to organize such an important event. As an Odia and a local resident, I speak from both a community and diaspora perspective. The preparations for PBD 2025 have been ambitious, with significant investments being made in temporary facilities and infrastructure enhancements. While these efforts aim to create a welcoming environment for the thousands of attendees, there are several concerns that need to be addressed.
One major issue is the allocation of resources. The decision to spend millions (160 crore rupees overall budget by some estimates) on temporary grand facilities could have been better spent. Instead of hosting large events in makeshift venues, smaller gatherings could have been organized across several high-quality hotels in Bhubaneswar and even neighbouring cities of Cuttack, Khordha and Puri. This approach would not only reduce costs but also provide a more intimate setting for discussions and networking among NRIs. Previous initiatives, such as the “Invest Bhubaneswar” event, have successfully connected Odisha entrepreneurs with Silicon Valley, leading to the establishment of the TiE Odisha chapter. This chapter has since played a pivotal role in organizing the ‘Invest Odisha’ event to attract investment from the Odisha government. Such successful frameworks demonstrate that smaller, focused gatherings can yield substantial results.
Additionally, the last-minute redesign of city infrastructure, such as erecting permanent barricades and beautifying public spaces, seems hasty and misdirected. Funds would be better utilized in addressing neglected inner areas like Behera Sahi, where basic roads and drainage systems are in dire need of repair. Investing in long-term urban development rather than cosmetic changes would yield more sustainable benefits for both residents and visitors.
Another troubling aspect is the treatment of local vendors such as my friend Ashok. The demolition of roadside vendors to accommodate visitors visual pleasures is a decision that disregards the livelihoods of local communities. Rather than displacing these vendors, a temporary relocation strategy could have been implemented, allowing for a welcoming atmosphere without sacrificing the economic stability of local families.
Street vendors being evicted for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations.
Recent unseasonal rains have caused considerable anguish for poor farmers in the state, leading to devastating losses in harvested paddy crops and, in some tragic cases, even suicides due to extreme distress. This humanitarian crisis highlights the need for compassion and community support, making it imperative to consider how resources for the PBD could be redirected to assist those in need. Additionally, there are legitimate concerns regarding the spread of flu infections, especially given the ongoing threat of new variants. Large gatherings could exacerbate these health risks, making a different approach not only justified but necessary.
A series of suicides by distressed farmers in Odisha.
While initiatives like wall painting programs intended to beautify the city are commendable, they should not be limited to specific events or VIP visits. A continuous effort to enhance urban aesthetics throughout the year would foster a more genuine appreciation of Bhubaneswar’s culture and heritage. Perhaps one of the most glaring oversights in the current preparations is the lack of attention given to critical infrastructure at key entry points like airports and train stations. The chaotic experience at Bhubaneswar Airport and railway station leaves a negative impression on visitors right from their arrival. Addressing these logistical challenges should have been prioritized to ensure a smooth experience for NRIs arriving for the PBD.
If I were tasked with organizing PBD 2025, my strategy would focus on thoughtful planning and community engagement. Hosting smaller events across various venues would allow for greater participation from NRIs while showcasing different aspects of Odisha’s culture and hospitality. Most such events that have been planned are for entertainment purpose only, such as the ‘Raja Rani’ festival and ‘Pathostav’. Engaging local communities in the planning process ensures that their needs and concerns are addressed while fostering goodwill among residents and visitors alike.
Furthermore, the potential for collaboration between the event and local farmers should not be overlooked. Organizers could implement fundraising and awareness campaigns during the PBD to support local farmers affected by recent agricultural crises. Setting up a farmers’ market within the event for local farmers to showcase and sell their products would not only provide them with a market but also encourage attendees to support local agriculture. Collaborating with NGOs that focus on agricultural support and rural development, such as SEEDS, could lead to workshops and training sessions that educate farmers on best practices and sustainable techniques.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas represents an invaluable opportunity to celebrate the contributions of NRIs while promoting Odisha on a global stage. However, it is crucial to reflect on whether this is indeed the best way to organize such an important event. I as an NRI had registered to attend the event. However, after I noticed that there were no agenda on the official web site other than lot of speeches and various activities to entertain NRIs in the name of showcasing Odisha, I decided not to attend.
By prioritizing the welfare of local farmers, addressing infrastructure needs, and fostering community engagement, the PBD in future can evolve from being merely an event into a meaningful catalyst for change and development in India.
