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Context

• The 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is being organized in partnership with the Madhya Pradesh Government from 08-10 January 2023 in Indore.

An Overview and 2024 Theme

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is the flagship event of the Government of India. It provides an important platform to engage and connect with the overseas Indians and to enable the diaspora to interact with each other.
• Pravasi Bharatiya Diva 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.
• The theme of this PBD Convention is "Diaspora: Reliable partners for India’s progress in Amrit Kaal”. Over 3,500 diaspora members from nearly 70 different countries have registered for the PBD Convention.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is an annual event celebrated in India to recognize the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the development of the country.
• The event aims to strengthen the engagement of the overseas Indian community with their homeland and foster a sense of connection and shared identity. Here's an overview of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas:

Background:

Inception:

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was first celebrated on January 9, 2003, to mark the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915. 

Significance:

• The event holds significance in recognizing the global Indian diaspora's achievements, contributions, and involvement in various fields such as business, science, technology, politics, and culture.
• These conventions provide 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.
• These conventions are also very 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.

Key Features:

Conferences and Seminars:

• PBD features conferences and seminars on topics relevant to the diaspora, including issues related to immigration, investment opportunities in India, and collaborations between overseas Indians and the Indian government.

Cultural Programs:

• Various cultural events, performances, and exhibitions showcase the diversity of Indian culture and heritage. These programs help in connecting the diaspora with their roots.

Awards and Recognitions:

• The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards are conferred during the event to recognize individuals of Indian origin who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Networking Opportunities:

• PBD serves as a platform for overseas Indians to network with each other, government officials, and business leaders. It encourages collaborations and partnerships for mutual benefit.

Government Initiatives:

• The Indian government often announces new initiatives and policies related to the diaspora during Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
• These may include initiatives to simplify procedures for overseas Indians, encourage investments, and promote cultural exchanges.

Youth PBD:

• In recent years, a Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has been organized to engage with the younger generation of the diaspora. This event focuses on issues relevant to young overseas Indians.

Importance:

Diaspora Engagement:

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas enhances the engagement of the Indian diaspora with the country, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility for India's development.

Economic Collaboration:

• The event facilitates economic collaboration by encouraging investments and business partnerships between the overseas Indian community and India.

Cultural Exchange:

• Cultural programs and events during PBD promote a deeper understanding of Indian culture and traditions among the diaspora, helping to maintain their cultural ties.

Policy Announcements:

• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a platform for the Indian government to announce policies and initiatives aimed at addressing the concerns and needs of the overseas Indian community.

Showcasing Achievements:

• The event provides an opportunity to showcase the achievements of the Indian diaspora, inspiring others and reinforcing their positive impact on the global stage.
• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas plays a crucial role in strengthening the bonds between India and its diaspora, fostering collaboration, and celebrating the achievements of overseas Indians.
• The event serves as a testament to the enduring connections that bind the Indian diaspora with their homeland.

PRACTICE QUESTION Question: Which of the following statements regarding Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is/are correct? 1.Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated annually on January 26th. 2.The event is organized only in India to recognize the contributions of the Indian diaspora. 3.The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards are conferred during PBD to recognize individuals of Indian origin for their significant contributions. 4.The Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a separate event and is not associated with the main Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebration. Select the correct answer using the codes below: A) 1 and 2 only B) 3 only C) 2 and 4 only D) 3 and 4 only Answer: C) 2 and 4 only Explanation: 1.Incorrect (Statement 1): Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated annually on January 9th, not on January 26th. It commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on January 9, 1915. 2.Correct (Statement 2): Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is organized both in India and in countries with a significant Indian diaspora presence. The venue changes annually, and the event aims to recognize the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the development of India. 3.Incorrect (Statement 3): The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards are indeed conferred during PBD to recognize individuals of Indian origin for their significant contributions. However, this is not the only correct statement. 4.Correct (Statement 4): The Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a separate event associated with PBD. It focuses on engaging with the younger generation of the diaspora and addressing issues relevant to them. Therefore, the correct answer is C) 2 and 4 only.