Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2026 is observed on 9 January to honour the contributions of the Indian diaspora worldwide. The day commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India in 1915, symbolising the historic and emotional bond between overseas Indians and the motherland. PBD serves as India’s flagship platform to engage and honour its 35-million-strong global diaspora.
Background & Evolution
- Flagship diaspora outreach programme of the Ministry of External Affairs
- Instituted in 2003 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee
- Since 2015: Conducted as a biennial, theme-based convention for focused engagement, dialogue and networking
- Historical Significance: Marks Mahatma Gandhi’s return in 1915, reflecting the diaspora’s role in India’s freedom struggle and nation-building
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026
- India hosts the world’s largest diaspora — 35+ million people across 200+ countries
- Diaspora engagement is strategically vital for:
- Diplomacy & soft power
- Trade and investment
- Technology and skills transfer
- Cultural exchange
Objectives of PBD
- Strengthen long-term India–diaspora bonds
- Provide a common platform for interaction with Indian leaders and policymakers
- Encourage NRIs and OCIs to invest, start businesses and support development projects
- Promote knowledge, skills and global best practices for India’s growth
- Preserve Indian culture, languages and traditions abroad
- Recognise and honour outstanding achievements of overseas Indians
Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA)
- Highest civilian honour for the diaspora
- Conferred on NRIs, OCIs and diaspora organisations
- Recognises:
- Contributions to India’s global image
- National causes
- Community welfare and social service
Impact on Indian Diaspora
- Reinforces a shared global Indian identity
- Enhances direct government–diaspora engagement through dialogue and policy interaction
- Economic significance:
- Indian diaspora contributes USD 120+ billion annually in remittances
- India is the world’s largest remittance recipient
- Boosts diaspora investment in:
- Start-ups
- Infrastructure
- Healthcare
- Education
- Strengthens cultural continuity among second- and third-generation overseas Indians