Why in Broadcast?

• The Central government marked the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD), also known as the day for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), on January 9 with events in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
• A digital exhibition on the contribution of the diaspora in the freedom struggle was inaugurated as well the commemorative stamp, ‘Surakshit Jaayen, Prashikshit Jaayen’ was launched on the occasion.

About the Day

• LM Singhvi committee put forth the idea before the government, of renewing and strengthening linkages of overseas Indians to their place of origin, and with each other.
• The committee recommended the establishment of Pravasi Bharatiye Bhawan as the focal point for networking between India and it’s overseas Indian community.
• It is from this recommendation that the idea of day to government to recognise the community flowed.
• The day came into effect in 2003, but in 2015 it was revised and was decided to be celebrated every two years.
• January 9 was selected as it was the date when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915
• This year’s theme is “Diaspora: Reliable partners for India’s progress in Amrit Kaal”.

Major contributions of the day

• The day has contributed greatly to growth of the Indian economy by attracting foreign investments and promoting the export of Indian goods and services.
• It has helped in creating jobs and encouraged skilled Indian workers and entrepreneurs to return.
• The day highlights the opportunities that are available for Indians working abroad to invest, work and study in their home country.

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award

• It is the highest honour given to a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO), organisation, or institution founded and operated by an NRI OR PIO.
• It is awarded to the person who has made a substantial contribution to a deeper understanding of India overseas and actively supports India’s interests and concerns.

Major initiatives by India

• The Indian prime minister called Emigrant Indians the brand ambassadors of India on foreign soil and that they have a significant place in the country’s journey.
• Following are some of the major initiatives by India:

• VAJRA (Visiting Advanced Joint Research Faculty) Scheme: This scheme formalizes a rotation program wherein top NRI scientists, engineers, doctors, managers and professionals serve Indian public sector organizations for a brief period, lending their expertise.
• Know India Program (KIP): The programme aims to familiarize Indianorigin youth (18-30 years) with their Indian roots and contemporary India.
• Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY): This scheme seeks to institutionalize the process of skill development of emigrant Indian workers.
• E-migrate System: It is a foreign employers database. It ensures the welfare and check on exploitation met to emigrants.