Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)

News: The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is taking place in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025, to honor the remarkable contributions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and the global Indian diaspora to India’s progress.

About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), or Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Day, celebrates the achievements and contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s development.
• It is observed on January 9, commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa to India in 1915, which marked the beginning of India’s freedom struggle.
• Inception:
  • The first PBD was celebrated in 2003.
  • It is the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
• Frequency: Initially an annual event, PBD has been celebrated biennially since 2015.
• Objective:
  • To connect the Indian diaspora with their roots.
  • To encourage their engagement in India’s socio-economic and cultural development.
• Themes:
  • Each PBD focuses on a specific theme highlighting diaspora contributions.
  • The 2025 theme is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
• Host Cities:
  • PBD is hosted in different Indian cities to showcase the regional diversity and opportunities for investment and collaboration.
• Recent Conventions:
  • 17th PBD: Held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, in 2023 with participation from over 70 countries.
  • 18th PBD: Scheduled in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8 to 10, 2025.

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA):

• • The PBSA is the highest honor for NRIs, Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and diaspora organizations.
  • It recognizes exceptional contributions in fields such as philanthropy, development, and enhancing India’s image globally.