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0 commentsThe 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) will take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8-10, 2025. This landmark event, hosted at Janata Maidan, marks the biennial gathering of the global Indian diaspora to celebrate their invaluable contributions to India's growth and development. Instituted in 2003, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915, recognizing the pivotal role of Indians abroad in supporting India’s progress.
A Historic Event in Bhubaneswar
This year’s PBD will be held in collaboration with the Odisha government, offering delegates a unique opportunity to experience the state’s rich culture. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who approved the event proposal, shared his optimism, saying, "Odisha will benefit immensely from hosting the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, and we are committed to making it a grand success."
Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s Minister of External Affairs, also expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “India not only has one of the largest diaspora populations but also one of the most closely connected to its motherland. Our PBD gathering every two years is a long-standing occasion to renew bonds and strengthen global ties.”
Key Highlights and Program Agenda
The three-day event is expected to draw over 7,000 participants, including foreign dignitaries, prominent Indian leaders, and international delegates. The agenda for PBD 2025 is as follows:
- Day 1 (January 8): Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas with discussions focused on diaspora youth leadership.
- Day 2 (January 9): Main inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by cultural programs celebrating Odisha’s heritage.
- Day 3 (January 10): Valedictory session featuring the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, presided over by President Droupadi Murmu.
The event will also include five plenary sessions addressing critical issues such as sustainable development, cultural connections, and diaspora contributions. Attendees can enjoy cultural showcases, including the Rajarani Music Festival and the Mukteshwar Dance Festival, highlighting Odisha’s artistic heritage.
Launch of the New PBD Website and Registration
In preparation for PBD 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs recently launched a dedicated website (pbdindia.gov.in) to streamline event registration and provide updates. Dr. Jaishankar and Chief Minister Majhi officially inaugurated the website, emphasizing its role in facilitating global participation.
Past PBD Locations
Since its inception, PBD has been held every 2 years across cities India:
- 2003 - New Delhi
- 2004 - New Delhi
- 2005 - Mumbai
- 2006 - Hyderabad
- 2007 - New Delhi
- 2008 - New Delhi
- 2009 - Chennai
- 2010 - New Delhi
- 2011 - New Delhi
- 2012 - Jaipur
- 2013 - Kochi
- 2014 - New Delhi
- 2015 - Gandhinagar
- 2017 - Bengaluru
- 2019 - Varanasi
- 2021 - Virtual (Amid COVID-19)
- 2023 - Indore, Madhya Pradesh
A Call to the Global Indian Community
With the theme “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will spotlight the diaspora’s role in realizing India’s vision for progress. In Dr. Jaishankar's words, “Developments at home—be they achievements or challenges—are always closely followed abroad.” This event promises to renew these bonds and inspire a deeper commitment to India’s growth.
For more information and to register, visit the official website: https://pbdindia.gov.in
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