The 18th PBD Convention was held for January 8-10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The theme for this year is the “Diaspora’s contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Key details about the event include:
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- Significance: It marks the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India from South Africa, marking a significant, proactive phase in India’s freedom struggle.
- Background: Celebrated since 2003, it was inaugurated to foster closer ties between India and its diaspora, acknowledging their roles in technology, investment, and cultural promotion.
- Format: Since 2015, it is celebrated biennially (every two years), featuring conventions with policymakers, experts, and stakeholders.
- Activities: The event features the conferral of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards and is marked by regional conventions, as well as the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana.
- 2025 Convention: The 18th PBD Convention was held in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha from January 8-10, 2025.
The primary goals of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are:
1. To commemorate the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s development
2. To create a better understanding of India abroad
3. To support India’s causes and work for the welfare of local Indian communities worldwide
4. To provide a platform for overseas Indians to engage with the government and people of their ancestral land.
It is designed to connect the Indian community worldwide, encouraging them to share their experiences and participate in India’s growth, often highlighting their role in achieving a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day) is celebrated annually on January 9 to strengthen engagement with the global Indian diaspora, recognizing their contributions to India’s development. The date commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa on January 9, 1915.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs. It is held in different cities, to showcase the diversity and progress of different regions of India. Since 2015, it has evolved into a biennale event, with theme-based conferences held in the intervening years. This format allows for more focused discussions on specific areas of interest and provides opportunities for networking among the global Indian diaspora.
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