The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), celebrated annually on the 9th of January, recognises the significant role that the Overseas Indian community plays in India’s development. The day is marked with several events including the PBD Convention, the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award and the Bharat ko Janiye Quiz.
Historical Relevance
The choice of 9th January as PBD is to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa to India in 1915. This singular event proved pivotal as he spearheaded India’s fight for freedom, thus altering the course of history for Indians.
PBD Conventions
PBD conventions are held biennially, the most recent being the 16th PBD convention that took place virtually in New Delhi in 2021. The theme was “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” This convention was attended by the Chief Guest, President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi.
Response to the Pandemic
One of the major highlights from the convention was India’s response to the pandemic. Despite dependence on essential items like PPE kits, masks, ventilators, and testing kits, India moved from being a consumer to an exporter of these critical items. Furthermore, India gave its approval to Oxford’s Covishield, developed by Serum Institute, and Covaxin, designed by Bharat Biotech, for Emergency use.
Technological Primacy
India’s use of technology to fight corruption through Direct Benefit Transfer and its investments in space programs and tech start-ups were highlighted during the convention. These initiatives positioned India as a leading player in global tech spheres.
New Initiatives
Several initiatives including the New Education Policy 2020 and the Production Linked Subsidies Scheme were introduced.
Support for Indian Diaspora
Various programs were initiated by the Indian Government for overseas Indians. These included the Vande Bharat Mission, a repatriation exercise during the pandemic. The SWADES initiative was launched to help returning immigrants from the Gulf and other regions. A new Global Pravasi Rishta Portal was also unveiled to improve communication with overseas Indians.
75th Anniversary of India’s Freedom
India’s Prime Minister requested members of the diaspora and people in Indian Missions globally prepare a digital platform to document contributions of Overseas Indians to India’s freedom struggle.
Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award
This award is the highest honour given to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), People of Indian Origin (PIOs) and organisations run by NRIs/PIOs who have significantly contributed to India’s image abroad, supporting Indian causes, engaging in community work, philanthropic activities and charitable works. Some of the winners for 2021 included Suriname’s President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi; Curacao’s Prime Minister, Eugene Rhuggenaath; and New Zealand’s Minister, Priyanca Radhakrishnan.
Third Edition Bharat ko Janiye Quiz
Launched in 2015-16, this quiz encourages young Overseas Indians to learn more about their country of origin. The 2021 edition had fifteen winners who will be invited to tour India post-Covid.
Last Modified: February 10, 2024