- greensea
- 10 Jan 2025 03:07 AM
- NRI News
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2025: A Detailed Overview
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) will take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8-10, 2025. This biennial convention celebrates the invaluable contributions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) towards India's development. Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Government of Odisha, the event provides a platform for engagement between the Indian diaspora and the nation, fostering global cooperation.
Key Highlights
Theme
The theme for PBD 2025 is:
“Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”
(विकसित भारत की संकल्पना में प्रवासी भारतीयों का योगदान)
This theme underscores the diaspora’s critical role in building a developed India, aligning with the government’s vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Venue
For the first time, Bhubaneswar will host this prestigious event, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure to welcome participants from across the globe. Known as the "Temple City," Bhubaneswar symbolizes India’s blend of tradition and progress.
Significance of the Dates
The convention will be inaugurated on January 9, 2025, a date of historical importance as it marks the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa in 1915. This event commemorates the beginning of Gandhi’s pivotal role in India’s freedom movement.
Key Guests
Inauguration by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Chief Guest: Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad & Tobago (addressing the event virtually)
Event Schedule
Day 1: January 8, 2025 – Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Focus: Youth leadership and empowerment.
Keynote Speaker: Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek.
Discussions will center around young diaspora leaders’ roles in shaping a globalized world.
Day 2 & 3: January 9-10, 2025 – Plenary Sessions and Awards
The event will feature five thematic plenary sessions, offering insightful discussions and expert perspectives:
Beyond Borders: Diaspora Youth Leadership in a Globalized World
Focus on youth leaders’ contributions to innovation, leadership, and global engagement.
Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Stories of Migrant Skills
Highlights how migrant communities are driving global and national growth through skills and talent.
Green Connections: Diaspora's Contributions to Sustainable Development
Discussions on the diaspora’s efforts in advancing sustainability and combating climate change.
Diaspora Divas: Celebrating Women's Leadership and Influence – Nari Shakti
Focus on the role of women in leadership and their influence on global development.
Diaspora Dialogues: Stories of Culture, Connection, and Belongingness
Exploration of cultural ties and the diaspora’s sense of identity and belonging.
Awards and Recognition
The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, the highest honor conferred upon the Indian diaspora, will be presented by the President of India during the event. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to:
Community service
Philanthropy
Science and technology
Arts and culture
India’s economic and developmental initiatives
Significance of PBD 2025
The 18th PBD will:
Strengthen diaspora relations: Build stronger ties with NRIs and PIOs worldwide.
Showcase India’s development vision: Highlight initiatives and opportunities where the diaspora can contribute.
Promote cultural exchange: Celebrate India’s heritage while embracing the diversity of its global community.
With over 50 countries participating, PBD 2025 promises to be a grand celebration of India's global citizens and their contributions. It will also pave the way for future collaborations, reinforcing the vital link between India and its diaspora community.
