Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is an event observed on January 9 every two years to honor the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the nation. Established in 2003 under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, PBD serves as a platform for meaningful engagement between India and its overseas communities. It is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and rotates between cities to showcase the cultural and regional diversity of the country.

 

Originally an annual celebration, the format was revised in 2015 to a biennial event, interspersed with theme-based conferences in alternate years. These conferences provide targeted discussions and networking opportunities for the global Indian community.

 

The event has historical significance, as it marks the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, a moment pivotal to the country’s freedom struggle. It underscores the enduring bond between the diaspora and their ancestral homeland.

 

The 18th PBD Convention is scheduled to take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8 to 10, 2025, with a central focus on the diaspora’s role in a developed India. The program includes key events across three days.

 

The first day features the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, bringing together young members of the diaspora to explore their cultural and historical roots. The session will be jointly inaugurated by the External Affairs Minister, the Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, and the Chief Minister of Odisha.

 

The second day marks the official inauguration of the convention by the Prime Minister of India. It will include the launch of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a tourist train designed for the diaspora, under the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. This train will visit religious and tourist sites in India during a three-week journey. Additionally, the Prime Minister will inaugurate exhibitions showcasing topics such as the legacy of the Ramayana, the diaspora’s contributions to technology, migration histories, and Odisha’s heritage.

 

The valedictory session on the third day will feature remarks from the President of India, alongside the presentation of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards. Various plenary sessions will take place during the second and third days, focusing on themes such as youth leadership, migrant experiences, sustainable development, women’s leadership, and cultural dialogue.

 

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas aims to recognize the role of the Indian diaspora in the nation’s development, build international understanding of India, and strengthen global networks supporting India’s causes. It provides a platform for members of the diaspora to connect with the government and people of their ancestral country, fostering collaboration across fields such as technology, education, and culture.

 

The official website for the 2025 convention was launched on November 12, 2024, enabling online registration for participants.