Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is an annual celebration that plays a crucial role in connecting the Indian diaspora with their homeland. It is designed to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between India and its vast overseas community. The 16th edition of this significant event is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through a virtual ceremony on January 9. Reflecting the government’s vision, the theme for this year’s convention is “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” which translates to “self-reliant India.” This central theme underscores the Indian government’s initiative to engage the global Indian community in the nation’s journey towards socio-economic transformation and self-reliance.
History and Significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was first celebrated in 2003 and since then has been held every year to mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community to the development of India. The date, January 9, was chosen to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India in 1915, symbolizing the return of the greatest ‘Pravasi’ to his motherland and his subsequent contribution to India’s freedom struggle. PBD serves as a platform for the Indian government to acknowledge the achievements of the Indian diaspora and involve them in the country’s growth trajectory.
Inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
The 16th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas holds great significance as it will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The virtual nature of the event ensures wider participation amidst the ongoing global health concerns. Prime Minister Modi’s involvement highlights the importance the Indian government places on its relationship with the diaspora and its commitment to engaging them in national affairs. The inauguration by the Prime Minister is expected to set the tone for the event and outline the government’s expectations from its diaspora.
Theme: Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The theme for the 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is in line with the Indian government’s current push towards creating a self-reliant nation. “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat” aims to mobilize the global Indian community to become active participants in India’s self-reliance journey. The theme emphasizes the role of the Indian diaspora in contributing to the country’s economic development through investments, knowledge, and skills transfer, as well as fostering international partnerships.
Engagement of Indian Diaspora in Socio-Economic Development
The Indian diaspora, estimated to be over 31 million people spread across the globe, is recognized as an important contributor to India’s development. The government aims to harness this potential by encouraging Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to invest in Indian enterprises, start-ups, and contribute to various development projects. The PBD serves as a forum to discuss opportunities and policies that can facilitate greater involvement of the diaspora in India’s socio-economic growth.
Conclusion of the Event
While the article does not require a conclusion, the wrap-up of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas event typically includes a series of sessions where delegates from the Indian community worldwide engage in discussions on various issues concerning the diaspora. These sessions are aimed at formulating recommendations that can enhance the partnership between India and its global community. The outcomes of the event are expected to contribute significantly to policy formulations concerning the Indian diaspora.
