Recently, the 18th PBD Convention was held in Odisha from January 8th to 10th, 2025, under the theme ‘Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).

Strengthening the Indian Diaspora

• PM’s Tribute to the Indian Diaspora: At the inauguration of the 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Indian diaspora as India’s “ambassadors to the world”, having “seamlessly assimilated” into the local society, served the community, and contributed to India’s growth and prosperity.
• Impact of the Indian-Origin Community: The strength of the India-origin community worldwide, with over 35 million members — about 15.85 million NRIs and 19.57 million PIOs — lies in their ability to adapt and thrive in various fields, including politics, where Indian-origin individuals have become leaders in more than 30 countries.
• Contributions of the Indian  Diaspora: Where they retain their Indian passports, the diaspora is known for its distinguished services in many professional spheres.
• Purpose of PBD: The PBD’s purpose is to celebrate this success and discuss issues of importance. President Droupadi Murmu handed out about 27 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards.
• Background:  The event, first held in 2003, was organised around January 9, when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915.
• Role of Diaspora  in India’s Development: The latest event, held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, brought together more than 3,000 delegates from across 70 countries, with much of the focus on how the diaspora can help in developing India under the Viksit Bharat programme.

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Challenges Associated with the Indian Diaspora

• Addressing the loopholes: The achievements of the Indian diaspora are, no doubt, a matter of pride for all Indians, but it is important that the event is not limited to a simple self-congratulatory or laudatory exercise.
• Rising Far-Right Populism: The increase in far-right populist governments, particularly in the West, is making visa and entry conditions for Indians more difficult, and it is important for the government to address such issues.
• Impact of Global Conflicts on Diaspora: Intractable global conflicts, especially in West Asia where more than nine million Indians live and work, are also putting lakhs of Indians in peril. 
  • The PBD engagement would benefit from discussions on how best to increase awareness and enhance safeguards for them.
• Inclusive Ties with the Diaspora: Given the broad spread of the diaspora, it is necessary to ensure that India’s ties with its diaspora be inclusive, and non-partisan on political issues.
• Issue of Revocation of OCI Cards: Recent actions by the government to deny or revoke OCI cards for those perceived to be critical of the government bely this necessity.
• Impact of Economic Migration : it is important to acknowledge that one of the biggest drivers of Indians migrating is the lack of economic opportunities within India. 
  • While there are no easy fixes for this, the loss to India of some of its most talented people must be counted, even as the country celebrates their incredible success and impact on the global stage.

Conclusion

Ensuring inclusive, non-partisan engagement, safeguarding their interests, and creating more opportunities within India will help strengthen the bond between the diaspora and the nation.

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