PM Modi to inaugurate the Pravasi Bharatiya Express on Wednesday: Here's everything you need to know about the special train

PM Modi to Launch Pravasi Bharatiya Express: Strengthening the Diaspora Connection

On Wednesday, January 9, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the much-anticipated Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a specially designed tourist train aimed at fostering a deeper bond between India and its diaspora. The launch will take place at New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station, aligning with the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Express is a key initiative under the 'Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana' (PTDY), a government program curated to offer a spiritual and cultural tour of India to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). Designed for individuals aged 45 to 65, the train promises an immersive journey across India’s historical, cultural, and religious landmarks, including destinations like Ayodhya, Varanasi, Rameswaram, Mahabalipuram, Agra, and Goa.

The fully air-conditioned train, with a capacity of 156 passengers, features modern amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. It is managed by the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and aims to provide participants with a unique blend of Indian heritage, tradition, and hospitality.

The timing of this launch is symbolic, as January 9 marks the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa in 1915, a milestone that set the stage for India’s freedom movement. The event will also coincide with the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention, where delegates from across the globe will engage in discussions on the Indian diaspora’s role in the country’s development.

In his address, PM Modi is expected to emphasize the importance of India’s cultural roots and highlight the invaluable contributions of the global Indian community. The Pravasi Bharatiya Express represents a key effort to connect the diaspora with their homeland, offering them not just a glimpse but a deep dive into the soul of India.

Ahead of the event, Bhubaneswar has been fortified with heightened security measures, including the deployment of over 2,700 police personnel. The state government has also ensured logistical preparations for the influx of international delegates attending the convention.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Express stands as more than just a train—it’s a moving embodiment of India’s cultural ethos, a bridge connecting the past with the present, and a tribute to the enduring ties between India and its diaspora. As the first journey begins, this initiative promises to leave a lasting imprint on the hearts of participants, reinforcing their connection to the land of their heritage.