NEWS  – Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Bhubaneswar

HIGHLIGHTS

Introduction

• Definition: Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) is a biennial event to honor the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
• Theme for 18th Edition (2025): ‘Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat’.
• Historical Significance:
  • Commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915.
  • Symbolic of Gandhi’s role as a “non-resident Indian” who influenced India’s freedom struggle.

Objectives of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas

• Strengthen links between India and its diaspora.
• Celebrate the economic, political, and cultural contributions of overseas Indians.
• Promote diaspora engagement in India’s development agenda.

Categories of Overseas Indians

• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): Indian citizens residing in foreign countries.
• Overseas Citizens of India (OCI):
  • Registered foreign nationals of Indian origin under Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955.
  • Exclusions: Citizens of Pakistan and Bangladesh.
• Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs):
  • Category abolished in 2015 and merged with OCI.

History and Evolution of PBD

• 2002: LM Singhvi Committee recommended closer linkages with overseas Indians.
• 2003: First PBD celebrated.
• Date Selection: Chosen to honor Gandhi’s return to India on January 9, 1915.
• 2015 Format Change: PBD transitioned to a biennial format during Gandhi’s centenary celebrations.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award

• Overview:
  • Highest honor for NRIs, OCIs, and organizations led by the diaspora.
  • Recognizes contributions to India’s global image, welfare of overseas Indians, and bilateral ties.
• Selection Process:
  • Jury chaired by the Vice President of India with members from diverse fields.
  • Awardees selected unanimously.
• 2025 Edition:
  • 27 awardees to be honored by President Droupadi Murmu.

Contribution of the Indian Diaspora

• Economic Contributions:
  • Remittances of $125 billion in 2023, a key driver for India’s economy.
  • Major contributors: USA, UAE, Canada, Saudi Arabia.
• Political Influence:
  • Increased representation in countries like the USA and Canada.
  • Active participation in local and national politics.
• Cultural and Social Impact:
  • Preservation and promotion of Indian culture abroad.
  • Diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors of India.

Government’s Outreach to the Diaspora

• Political Events:
  • “Howdy Modi” event in Texas (2019): Showcase of India’s global leadership with PM Modi and US President Trump.
  • Efforts to engage diaspora during elections and policy-making.
• Economic Engagement:
  • Initiatives to attract diaspora investments in infrastructure, startups, and technology.
  • Platforms like the Pravasi Bharatiya Bhavan for networking and collaboration.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Challenges:
  • Ensuring the welfare of Indian workers in Gulf countries.
  • Balancing diaspora expectations with national priorities.
• Opportunities:
  • Leveraging the diaspora’s expertise in education, technology, and healthcare.
  • Strengthening India’s global soft power through cultural diplomacy.

Recent Data on Indian Diaspora

• Global Spread:
  • USA: 54 lakh
  • UAE: 35 lakh
  • Canada: 28 lakh
  • Saudi Arabia: 24 lakh
• Remittances: $125 billion in 2023, highlighting the diaspora’s economic significance.