PM Narendra Modi to Inaugurate the Convention; President Droupadi Murmu to Confer Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards
New Delhi: The 19th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention will be held from January 7 to 9 next year in Kolkata, West Bengal. The three-day convention will be organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in partnership with the Government of West Bengal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the convention, while President Droupadi Murmu will confer the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards and preside over the valedictory session.
The PBD Convention brings together the Indian diaspora from across the world, along with policymakers, business leaders, academics, professionals and other stakeholders, to discuss the diaspora’s contribution to India’s development and strengthen their engagement with the country.
Background of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is observed to recognise and celebrate the contribution of the Indian diaspora to India’s development and to provide a platform for overseas Indians to connect with their country of origin.
The first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention was organised in 2003. The date of January 9 was chosen to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915. Gandhi subsequently played a historic role in India’s freedom movement.
Since its inception, the PBD Convention has evolved into an important platform for dialogue between the Government of India and the Indian diaspora on issues concerning overseas Indians, as well as opportunities for their greater participation in India’s economic, social and developmental journey.
The convention also provides an opportunity to honour individuals who have made significant contributions through the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, one of the highest honours conferred on overseas Indians and organisations working for the welfare and interests of the Indian diaspora.
The PBD Convention is generally organised around January 9, while the format and frequency have evolved over the years. The event has emerged as a major forum for celebrating the global Indian community and strengthening its links with India.
The upcoming 19th PBD Convention in Kolkata is therefore expected to bring together members of the diaspora from different parts of the world and further deepen the relationship between India and its overseas community.