Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit
January 9th is celebrated every year as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas to mark the significant contribution of the Overseas Indian community in the development of India. This day was chosen to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, from South Africa in 1915, who led India’s freedom struggle and transformed the lives of Indians forever.
The first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention was held in January 2003 in New Delhi, and since then, 18 editions of the PBD Convention have been organized. The PBD convention is the flagship event of the Ministry, aimed at connecting India with its vast Indian Diaspora and bringing their knowledge, expertise, and skills onto a common platform. Also known as ‘Non-Resident Indian Day’, it acknowledges the contribution of the Indian community living abroad in India’s development. The three-day celebration from January 7-9 provides an opportunity for Indians worldwide to come together, share experiences, and work towards strengthening India’s economy.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, Indian immigrants once went abroad seeking opportunities, but today, India has emerged as a nation with immense strength and capital. The PBD serves as a platform for extensive networking among the Indian community, fostering collaboration, and showcasing India’s unity and transnational identity. With a 30-million strong Diaspora, India has the potential to become a spiritual and cultural hub, and a superpower. The event provides a chance for the Indian community to share their valuable experiences in various fields, be it economic or social, and contribute to India’s growth story.
The PBD has become a significant event in showcasing India’s soft power and cultural heritage, facilitating partnerships and collaborations between Indian businesses and the global Indian Diaspora. The Indian government has introduced initiatives like the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) scheme to strengthen ties with the Diaspora. The event has also provided a platform for discussing issues affecting the Indian Diaspora, such as safety, security, and welfare. Additionally, the PBD has led to the establishment of various institutions and programs aimed at promoting Indian culture, education, and economic development.
The PBD has also played a crucial role in promoting tourism and investment in India, with many delegates exploring opportunities for business and cultural exchange. The event has become a significant platform for young entrepreneurs and professionals to connect with established leaders and industry experts, fostering mentorship and innovation. As India presents new opportunities for earning a good living, it’s essential to make the most of this gathering and work towards long-term results, particularly for the working class who bring in foreign remittance.
On this Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, let’s pledge to contribute to India’s development process, celebrate our shared cultural values, and strengthen our connections with the global Indian community. By doing so, we can make India a beacon of hope and prosperity for the world. The government has also been working towards creating a conducive environment for NRIs to invest in India, with initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’. With the PBD, India is poised to tap into the potential of its Diaspora and emerge as a global leader in various fields.
(The author is a freelancer and can be reached at [email protected])
