Bhubaneswar, Jan 10 (Reporter) Odisha has become the focal point of the Indian Government's 'Look East-Act East' policy, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday stated. Addressing the valedictory ceremony of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention here, Pradhan remarked, “Today, we have two significant milestones ahead of us." In 2036, Odisha will celebrate the centenary of its formation as a separate linguistic state, and in 2047, India will celebrate 100 years of independence. At that time, our collective aim is to make India a developed country." He emphasized, "India will only develop if Odisha develops." Pradhan described Odisha as "the land of Buddha and the land of peace," noting that the principles of Buddhism emerged and spread worldwide through Odisha. He highlighted Odisha’s ancient democratic traditions, stating, "When there were no kings in Odisha, we had democracy. Our collective sacrifices transformed Emperor Ashoka from 'Chandashoka' (Ashoka the Fierce) to 'Dharmashoka' (Ashoka the Righteous)." The Union Minister further explained that Odisha has been a focal point of globalization since ancient times. For thousands of years, Odias from Odisha engaged in trade with Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. "The civilization, culture, and traditions of Odisha are still visible across the world, especially in Southeast Asia," he added. Pradhan extended a warm welcome to all members of the Indian diaspora who had come to the holy land of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath and congratulated those who received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. He noted that the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention had brought global recognition to Odisha and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for successfully organizing the event...////...