January 22, 2019
The theme of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas 2019 is “Role of Indian Diaspora in building New India”, with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Jugnauth, as the chief guest
PM said that the NRIs are not only Brand Ambassadors of India but also represent the nation’s strength; He urged the diaspora to participate in building a New India
MEA celebrates Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, or Overseas Indians (OI) Day, to mark contribution of OIs in India’s development. Indian missions and consulates also celebrate PBD
During PBD convention, selected OIs are honoured with the famed Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award to recognise their contributions in various fields in India and abroad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 15th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) in Varanasi on January 22. The theme of PBD-2019 is “Role of Indian Diaspora in building New India”, with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Jugnauth, as chief guest. India celebrates PBD, or Overseas Indians Day, to mark the contribution of the OI (NRI and PIO) community in India’s development. Indian missions and consulates worldwide also celebrate the day. In his address, PM Modi said it was the love and affection of the diaspora for the land of their forefathers that has brought them to India.
PM said that the NRIs are not only Brand Ambassadors of India but also represent the nation’s strength, capabilities and characteristics. He urged the diaspora to participate in building a New India, especially in research and innovation. PM Modi said that with its rapid progress, India is being seen on a high pedestal across the world and is in a position to lead the global community. Meanwhile, he urged OIs to invite five non-Indian families to visit India. Speaking on the occasion, Chief guest Mauritius PM Jugnauth invoked memories of Indian diaspora and their connect with the land of their forefathers.
A day earlier, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had inaugurated the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas on the first day of the event that is being held over January 21-23. In her address, Smt Swaraj said that India is a land of vast opportunities and Pravasi Bharatiyas continue to be partners in India’s progress. The summit gives the opportunity to renew connections with Indians worldwide, while celebrating OI’s achievements and contributions. During the PBD convention, selected OIs are honoured with the famed Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) to recognise their work in India and abroad.
The PBSA, conferred by the President of India, is the highest honour conferred on NRIs and PIOs. On the closing day January 23, President Shri Ram Nath Kovind will confer Pravasi Bharatiya Samman.