New Delhi: To honour the contribution made by the overseas community to the development of the nation, India on Saturday convened the 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention held virtually, that saw the participation of overseas Indians and eminent experts from all across the world.
Held under the aegis of Ministry of External Affairs, under the theme ‘Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the convention was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President of Suriname Chandrikaprasad Santokhi was present as the chief guest at the convention.
Speaking to ETV Bharat in regards to the PBD convention, India’s ex-ambassador to Fiji Padmaja said, “This year's Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas which is being celebrated with the theme Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, will facilitate business opportunities not only for India but also for Indian Diaspora countries participating in the Convention. We can get benefitted from the best practices of each other in agriculture, industry and various other fields".
"During this difficult time of the pandemic, all countries of the world have their specific needs. This convention allows us to explore, share and implement new solutions. India is about to roll out COVID vaccine and this is a suitable opportunity to showcase this achievement and also extend necessary help and assistance to these countries. It would provide a boost to our economy", she added.
She further thanked and congratulated the Indian Diaspora across the world for their achievements and making India proud.
Reflecting on the significance of the convention, ambassador Padmaja stated, “I see the relationship between India and its Diaspora as roots of a tree and it's new leaves & flowers etc. While the tender leaves & flowers get their life from the roots, their beauty and utility contribute to the tree overall, making it complete. PBD which started in 2003 is now celebrated every year on 9 January. This day commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa”.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas holds immense significance as the day not only reconnects NRIs with their roots but celebrates their achievements. This day also acknowledges the difficulties faced by Indian expatriate workers living abroad.
PBD Conventions help in creating a network of NRIs in all the countries of the world and connecting the younger generation with immigrants so that they can evolve and contribute significantly to the development of the country.
Pertinently, this day commemorates the return of the Father of the Nation to India from South Africa, whose. He is known as the greatest Pravasi to free India from the clutches of the British rule.
The 16th PBD convention had two plenary sessions including the role of Diaspora in Aaatmanirbhar Bharat and Facing Post Covid-Challenges- Scenario in Health, Economy, Social and International Relations.
Addressing the PBD convention Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “It is a matter of pride for India that the overseas Indians have contributed largely during such unprecedented times. In the past years, Non-Resident Indians have strengthened their identity in other countries”.
“Today we have been connected with internet from various corners of the world but our minds are always connected with ‘Maa Bharti”, he added.
Focusing on Self-reliant India and its role during the pandemic, Modi further reiterated, “India used to import PPE kits, masks, ventilators and testing kits from outside but today our nation is self-reliant. Today India is ready to save humanity with two ‘Made in India’ COVID-19 vaccines”.
The 16th PBD convention is organized to reconnect overseas Indians with their roots and create a network of NRIs in all the countries of the world to connect the younger generation with immigrants. It provides a platform to engage and connect with the overseas Indians.
The convention also saw the announcement of the winners of the ‘Bharat ko Janiye’ quiz virtual competition organized for the youth overseas.
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