PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate Pravasi Bhartiya Divas on January 8

GANDHINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) at Mahatma Mandir here on January 8.

"On the morning of January 8, the Prime Minister will first inaugurate the 'Salt Mound' structure near Mahatma Mandir before officially inaugurating the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. He will be accompanied by MoS for External Affairs, General (retd) V K Singh and many dignitaries," state Finance Minister Saurabh Patel told reporters here.

The day is held to mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community to the development of the country.

Patel said Modi is expected to hold one-to-one interactions with various dignitaries including chief ministers of different states, after delivering the inaugural address.

"At present, we expect that at least 15 CMs will be here to take part in this event. The prime minister will also take a round of the special exhibition organised at Mahatma Mandir," said Patel.

The exhibition will have stalls and display pavilions of various states, besides of schemes launched by the prime minister recently like the Skills India, Swachh Bharat, Ganga Rejuvenation, Smart Cities, Digital India, etc. added Patel.

"The Prime Minister will be here for just one day, as he is expected to leave during the evening on the same day. We expect that at least 5000 visitors, including NRIs will take part in the event, which will conclude on January 9," the minister added.