The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards continue to symbolize the deep connection between India and its global diaspora
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By celebrating the achievements of overseas Indians, the awards inspire others to pursue excellence while strengthening ties that transcend borders
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The 2025 awards and the 18th PBD Convention highlight the immense potential of the Indian diaspora to shape a better world, honoring their contributions as a beacon of global Indian excellence
The Ministry of External Affairs has announced the recipients of the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA) 2025. As the highest civilian honor for overseas Indians, the PBSA celebrates exceptional contributions to India and abroad. This year’s awards will be conferred by President Droupadi Murmu during the valedictory session of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, scheduled from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
A Platform for Diaspora Engagement
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention serves as a flagship event for connecting with the Indian diaspora. It honors the achievements of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and diaspora-led institutions, showcasing their diverse accomplishments across fields such as science, technology, business, education, politics, and community service.
Distinguished Recipients of PBSA 2025
The selection process, led by a Jury-cum-Awards Committee chaired by India’s Vice-President and the External Affairs Minister as Vice-Chair, was rigorous. The 2025 recipients exemplify outstanding achievements across disciplines:
- Community Service: Prof. Ajay Rane (Australia), Swami Sanyuktanand (Fiji), and Hindustani Samaj (Russia).
- Education: Dr. Marialena Joan Fernandes (Austria), Saraswati Vidya Niketan (Guyana), and Mr. Atul Arvind Temurnikar (Singapore).
- Medical Science: Dr. Philomena Ann Mohini Harris (Barbados), Dr. Prem Kumar (Kyrgyz Republic), and Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed (Saudi Arabia).
- Science and Technology: Dr. Lekh Raj Juneja (Japan).
- Business: Mr. Soukthavy Chowdhury (Laos) and Mr. Krishna Savjani (Malawi).
- Politics: Baroness Usha Kumari Prashar (United Kingdom).
- IT and Consulting: Mr. Ravi Kumar S. (United States).
The awards also highlight institutional contributions, with Saraswati Vidya Niketan and Hindustani Samaj being recognized for their efforts in promoting education and community service, respectively.
Celebrating Global Contributions
The PBSA underscores the enduring impact of Indian excellence worldwide, recognizing both individual achievements and collective efforts. Awardees have not only advanced their respective fields but have also fostered goodwill and cultural promotion on a global scale. Their contributions reflect India’s rich legacy and its dynamic engagement with its diaspora.
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention
This year’s convention in Bhubaneswar promises to be a landmark event, uniting members of the Indian diaspora for three days of cultural programs, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. It aims to deepen the bonds between India and its global community by fostering dialogue and collaboration.
The valedictory session on January 10, 2025, will culminate in the presentation of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards by President Murmu. This momentous occasion will reaffirm India’s commitment to celebrating its diaspora and recognizing their invaluable contributions.
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