As a flagship event of the Indian government, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention remains a pivotal platform for fostering connections with the global Indian community and reinforcing the shared vision of India’s growth and prosperity
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has invited members of the Indian diaspora to register for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, scheduled to be held in January 2025. The event, launched via the newly introduced website on November 12, aims to encourage global Indian communities to connect and engage with India’s development journey.
During the website launch at the Indian Embassy, Ambassador Naveen Srivastava addressed the gathered guests and urged the diaspora to participate in the convention. Reflecting on the previous PBD in Bhopal, Srivastava highlighted the active participation from Nepal, where a large delegation joined, visiting key sites like Indore and the Mahakal Temple. “We anticipate similar enthusiasm this year and encourage our diaspora to register through the official website,” Srivastava emphasized, adding that the embassy will actively support and address participant queries.
A special Youth PBD session will also be held in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, emphasizing the engagement of young overseas Indians
The website launch was officiated by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, with Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh also in attendance. The newly launched platform, accessible at pbdindia.gov.in, allows online registration for PBD 2025, provides accommodation options in Odisha, and includes comprehensive event information. Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India prioritizes the welfare of its over 35-million-strong diaspora, recognizing their critical role in the nation’s progress. He expressed confidence in the diaspora’s ongoing contributions to India’s mission of achieving a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
The PBD Convention, scheduled from January 8-10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is co-organized by the Government of India and the Odisha State Government. This year’s theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” aligns with India’s vision for development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the convention, while President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the closing session and confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.
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