Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

Definition

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a celebration that honors the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India and promotes engagement between India and its overseas citizens. It serves as a platform for discussing issues faced by the diaspora, strengthening bilateral relations, facilitating knowledge transfer, and influencing India's foreign policy through active participation of overseas Indians.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was first celebrated in 2003 and is typically observed on January 9th to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa in 1915.
2. The event gathers members of the Indian diaspora, government officials, and other stakeholders to discuss economic, cultural, and social issues that impact both India and its overseas citizens.
3. PBD has played a significant role in enhancing India's image globally and fostering collaboration with countries hosting large Indian communities.
4. The event features various sessions, workshops, and exhibitions that encourage knowledge sharing and networking among participants.
5. By celebrating PBD, India aims to leverage the skills and resources of its diaspora for national development and strengthening ties with foreign nations.

Review Questions

• How does Pravasi Bharatiya Divas facilitate bilateral relations between India and other countries?
  • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas facilitates bilateral relations by bringing together members of the Indian diaspora with Indian government officials and foreign diplomats. Through discussions and networking opportunities, PBD helps identify common interests, promote trade relations, and foster cultural exchanges. This interaction enables countries to collaborate on various fronts while also addressing the concerns of the diaspora, ultimately strengthening ties between India and host nations.
• In what ways does Pravasi Bharatiya Divas contribute to knowledge transfer and brain circulation among the Indian diaspora?
  • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas contributes to knowledge transfer by organizing workshops, seminars, and panels that allow participants to share their expertise and experiences. This sharing of knowledge fosters connections between skilled professionals in the diaspora and their counterparts in India. As a result, it promotes 'brain circulation,' where ideas, innovation, and talent flow between countries instead of resulting solely in brain drain. This dynamic exchange benefits both the diaspora and India's development goals.
• Evaluate the influence of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on India's foreign policy strategies regarding its diaspora.
  • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has significantly influenced India's foreign policy by emphasizing the importance of engaging with the Indian diaspora as a strategic asset. By acknowledging their contributions to economic growth, cultural diplomacy, and international relations, India has tailored its foreign policy to prioritize collaboration with countries that host large Indian communities. This approach not only enhances bilateral ties but also encourages Indian expatriates to play an active role in promoting India's interests abroad, shaping policies that reflect their needs and aspirations.

Related terms

Diaspora: The dispersion of people from their original homeland; in this context, it refers to Indians living outside India.

Bilateral Relations: The diplomatic relations between two countries, focusing on cooperation in areas like trade, culture, and security.

Brain Drain: The emigration of highly trained or qualified individuals from one country to another, often seen as a loss for the home country but can lead to brain circulation.