Tuesday, January 09, 2007: The second day of the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in New Delhi on 9th January, 2007 saw the plenary session on Developmental Challenges of the States: Partnership Opportunities being addressed by the External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee.

Mukherjee stressed on the need for a poised economic growth across the country, and urged states lagging behind to create the right investment environment for investors. State Governments should take specific initiatives and devise strategies to derive the maximum benefit from the talent, enterprise, enthusiasm and commitment of the overseas Indian community.

The minister thanked the efforts of the NRIs in participating in India’s progress, and called for a stronger partnership in the emergence of India. He cited the role of the Chinese diaspora in pushing China’s economy forward.

Infrastructure, agriculture, education, research and development, energy and social sectors were identified as vital areas where the overseas Indian community could focus its efforts.