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.
