Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (January 9) greeted the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day) on January 9. Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi said, “Congratulations to all, especially the Indian diaspora. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.”
Our diaspora has distinguished itself all over the world and has excelled in various fields. At the same time, they remained connected to their roots. We are proud of their achievements.”
What is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
To mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community in the development of India, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is observed on 9 January. PBD conferences are being organized every year since 2003 but since 2015, the format has been modified.
Importance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
According to the Ministry of External Affairs of India, the amendment was made to celebrate the PBD once every two years. Also, it was proposed to organize theme based PBD conferences during the intervening period with the participation of expatriate expatriate experts, policy makers and stakeholders.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, these conferences provide a platform for the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and the people of their ancestral lands for mutually beneficial activities.
These conferences are also very useful in networking among the overseas Indian community living in different parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in different fields.
Why is it celebrated only on 9th January?
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on 9 January since the great expatriate Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915.