Context: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), also known as Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Day, is an annual event celebrated on January 9th of every year.

About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas or NRI Day

• Inspiration: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas or NRI Day is celebrated to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on 9 January 1915.
• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) provides a platform for the overseas Indian community to engage with the Indian government and people of the land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities. 

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• It’s a day to acknowledge the achievements of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who have made significant contributions to their adopted countries while still cherishing their Indian heritage.
• Appreciation of Contribution: It is a day to appreciate the vast and vibrant Indian diaspora, celebrate their achievements, and strengthen the bonds that connect them to their motherland. 
  • It’s a reminder that the Indian spirit continues to shine brightly on a global stage, and its contributions continue to shape a better future for all.
• Organiser: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs. It is held in different cities, to showcase the diversity and progress of different regions of India.

History of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

• It was first celebrated in 2003. It was an annual event earlier, but in 2015, the government revised its format to celebrate PBD once every two years. 
  • To date, 17 conventions have been held. The last Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was celebrated in the Indore of Madhya Pradesh in 2023.

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Themes of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 

Venues of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)

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Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Its Significance 

• Indian Diaspora: It recognizes and honors the Indian diaspora spread across the globe. 
  • This day marks the contribution and achievements of overseas Indians in various fields, fostering a strong connection between the homeland and its diasporic communities.
• Improving Networking: Such events are useful in networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in various fields.
• Unifying Factor: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrates these contributions and fosters a sense of unity and pride among the Indian diaspora. 
  • It serves as a reminder that regardless of their geographical location, Indians remain connected to their cultural and historical roots.

Contribution of NRIs and PIOs

• Economy: They contribute significantly to India’s foreign exchange reserves through remittances and investments.
• Science and Technology: Many NRIs are leading figures in cutting-edge fields, promoting knowledge sharing and collaboration.
• Culture and Arts: They act as ambassadors of Indian culture and traditions, enriching the global landscape.
• Social Development: Their philanthropic endeavours support various social causes and contribute to India’s development.

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About Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 

• It is the highest honour conferred on overseas Indians.
• PBSA is conferred by the President of India as a part of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Conventions.

What Are the Categories for the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award?

• Better understanding abroad of India;
• Support to India’s causes and concerns in a tangible way;
• Building closer links between India, the overseas Indian community and their country of residence;
• Social and humanitarian causes in India or abroad;
• Welfare of the local Indian community;
• Philanthropic and charitable work;
• Eminence in one’s field or outstanding work, which has enhanced India’s prestige in the country of residence; or
• Eminence in skills which has enhanced India’s prestige in that country (for non-professional workers).

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