The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is being held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025, celebrating the significant contributions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and the global Indian diaspora to India’s development.
This year’s theme, ‘Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,’ highlights the vital role the diaspora plays in shaping a prosperous and progressive India.
PBD is celebrated every two years to strengthen the connection between the overseas Indian community and the Government of India while providing a platform for cultural reconnection and collaboration.
The event commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on January 9, 1915. His return kindled the nation’s freedom struggle, marking a turning point in Indian history.
The first PBD Convention was held in 2003, and since 2015, the Ministry of External Affairs has organised the event biennially, featuring key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers.
The convention offers a forum for meaningful discussions on issues relevant to overseas Indians while creating opportunities for investments, collaborations, and partnerships that contribute to India’s growth.
In recent years, the PBD Convention has been hosted in partnership with various state governments, offering them a chance to showcase their strengths and attract investment and technology from the diaspora.
The 17th PBD Convention, held in Indore in 2023, attracted over 3,500 participants from 70 countries, making it the first physical gathering after the pandemic.
External Affairs Minister praises Indian Diaspora
In his inaugural address at the Convention on Wednesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar praised the Indian diaspora as “one of the largest and most tightly-knit communities worldwide,” emphasizing the importance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) as “a special opportunity to strengthen connections and foster new networks.”
In his message, Jaishankar reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. He said, “In 2025, the theme is ‘Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.’ In response to Prime Minister Modi’s call, the entire nation is determinedly moving towards this goal, and the diaspora’s involvement is crucial. We are confident that the discussions at PBD will strengthen your commitment to this journey.”
Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA)
A key highlight of the PBD Convention is the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA), presented by the President of India to approximately 30 distinguished members of the Indian diaspora, including NRIs, Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and diaspora-run organisations.
The PBSA recognizes exceptional contributions in areas such as social and humanitarian work, India’s development, and enhancing India’s global image.
By the 17th PBD Convention, 296 PBSA awards had been conferred, honouring the remarkable achievements of the diaspora across various fields.
