External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who inaugurated this year's 'Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas' in Gandhinagar on Wednesday, said the Indian economy is showing new dynamism under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre.
"What excites the world today is India's economy, which is showing new dynamism under the new government. Swacch Bharat movement, Make in India programme, Digital India Initiative; young pravasis can contribute to the country," she said while speaking on the occasion.
Swaraj said the government's 'Make in India' initiative indicates the commitment to turn India into a manufacturing hub.
"Swachh Bharat campaign for cleanliness has become a mass movement. You will always be considered one of us, our own, regardless of the colour of your passport. Even though situated 1000 miles away, you have kept the spirit of India alive. Young global Indians, should come, connect, celebrate and be a part of our initiative to build 'ek Bharat shrestha Bharat'," she added.
Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who was also present on the occasion, lauded the contributions made by Indians across the world.
"A large number of young Indians have moved to many parts of world and made huge contributions," said Sonowal.
'Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas' is the world's largest annual gathering of people of Indian origin aimed at enhancing networking and reinforcing the economic and cultural bonding.
The prestigious annual event of Indian diaspora will be formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. The Prime Minster will also inaugurate Dandi Kutir- a permanent exhibition on life and message of Mahatma Gandhi at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.
The closing ceremony will be attended by Vice President Hamid Ansari on January 9. He will also be presenting the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards.
The President of Guyana Donald Ramotar will be the chief guest at the event. He would be presented with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the highest honour conferred on overseas Indians and people of Indian origin.
South African Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane is also attending the event to mark Mahatma Gandhi's return from South Africa 100 years ago.
Gujarat is the partner country for the event. Other states participating in the event are Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Maharashtra, Kerala and Nagaland.
