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Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) or NRI Day is an annual celebration in India that is held on 9 January every year. The day is marked to recognize and honor the contributions made by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) towards the development of India. The event was first celebrated in 2003 and has since been observed every year to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa on 9 January 1915. The occasion serves as a platform to connect with the Indian diaspora living across the world and engage them in the development of India.
There are 32 million Non-Resident Indians and PIOs residing outside India. To connect with all of them and to ensure their participation in Indian developmental activities, the Ministry of External Affairs introduced the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Through this MEA is aiming to provide a platform for NRI to express their perceptions about India and thereby involve them in various developments. Indian Ministry of External Affairs introduced the Pravasi Bharathiya Divas or NRI day in 2000 and from their onward NRI day is celebrated on every alternative year. MEA has organized Fifteen PBDs have been in various Indian cities.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026 Date – January 9
In this article readers can get a glimpse on
- History and Significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
- Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Theme 2026
- Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Quiz
Pravasi Bharathiya Divas (NRI Day)
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
NRI or Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is observed every year on 9 January to mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community towards the development of India. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the platform to connect Indian Policymakers and NRI’s. PBD’s enables India to showcase its diplomatic standing with countries with a large Diaspora population. Started in 2000, this biennial event is sponsored by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the Confederation of Indian Industries and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. MEA organizes the PBD Conferences every other year in any Indian city with NRIs and other stakeholders. Even the concept of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) was launched during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention at Hyderabad in 2006.
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Start Learning!Why NRI Day on January 09? – History of Pravasi Bharathiya Divas
Indian celebrates the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas or NRI day on January 09 bilingual. But why MEA the organizer selected January 09? On January 09, 1915, is when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa. To commemorate his return, Ministry of External Affairs has chosen January 09 to be celebrated as Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day) in the year 2000.
The very first PBD convention was organized in 2003 at New Delhi. Considering the health emergency, MEA has decided to go virtual for this year’s events. The PBD convention as well as the preceding PBD Conferences will be streamed live across the External Affairs Ministry’s virtual platforms to enable every Indian and Diaspora member to engage and participate in the PBD Celebrations.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026 Theme
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2026, observed on January 9, marks a significant moment for the Indian diaspora. Following the biennial format established in 2015, 2026 serves as an intervening year between major conventions. While the grand 18th Convention took place in 2025 and the 19th is slated for 2027, the 2026 observance continues to build on the momentum of the current national vision.
The Overarching Theme: “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”
As of early January 2026, the Government of India continues to center diaspora engagement around the goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. In the absence of a single “Main Convention Theme” for 2026, the focus remains on how the overseas Indian community acts as a “living bridge” to achieve this vision.
Key Pillars of the 2026 Focus:
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Innovation and Technology: Leveraging the expertise of the diaspora in Silicon Valley and global tech hubs to fuel India’s digital economy.
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Youth Leadership: Engaging the third and fourth-generation diaspora through programs like “Know India” and “Bharat Ko Janiye,” encouraging them to lead in a globalized world.
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Sustainable Development: Utilizing “Green Connections” to involve the diaspora in India’s renewable energy and climate goals.
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Nari Shakti: Celebrating the leadership and influence of women of Indian origin in global politics, science, and business.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Previous Themes
The theme of the event changes every year to reflect the needs and priorities of the Indian community living abroad.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025, themed “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” was celebrated on January 9 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, highlighting the vital role of the Indian diaspora in India’s development journey. This year’s event will showcase exhibitions on the diaspora’s contributions and India’s cultural heritage. It aims to strengthen connections with the global Indian community and celebrate their achievements.
The theme for the 2021 event was “Contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat,” which centered around encouraging the Indian diaspora to contribute towards the vision of self-reliant India. The event aimed to foster a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation among the Indian community abroad to boost the economy of the country.
Similarly, the theme for the 2023 event is “Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India’s Progress in Amrit Kaal.” The theme aims to highlight the role of the Indian diaspora in contributing to the progress of India amidst the current challenging times. The event will focus on strengthening the bond between India and its diaspora and creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026 Significance
This day is specially dedicated to the upheaval of the motherland. The NRIs and the diaspora population has always been the reason for many upheavals in the nation. India remembers the collective sources of income and the profits that flow to the motherland due to the hard work and considerate patience the NRIs has paid. The Nation brings attention to the contributions as well as the innovations that can be done for the growth of the motherland through the celebration. This day hold its significance for the past precious contributions and the future decisions of the Pravasi world.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026 Quotes
- Every life is a journey, regardless of whether you stay in one place, live like a global nomad, or end up being something in between. – Ranjani Rao
- Even in darkness, there is light and that is spiritually illuminated India. – Shubhangi Gopal Kamble
- What is harder to do is breaking the ties to the people, the places, and the version of me that will linger. – Ranjani Rao
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Start Learning!Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Venues
The Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas is celebrated in each state each year. Once in 2018, the venue for the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas was in Singapore, which was the first time celebration outside the Nation.
| Year | Dates | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 9-11 January, 2003 | New Delhi |
| 2004 | 9-11 January, 2004 | New Delhi |
| 2005 | 7-9 January, 2005 | Mumbai |
| 2006 | 7-9 January, 2006 | Hyderabad |
| 2007 | 7-9 January, 2007 | New Delhi |
| 2008 | 7-9 January, 2008 | New Delhi |
| 2009 | 7-9 January, 2009 | Chennai |
| 2010 | 7-9 January, 2010 | New Delhi |
| 2011 | 7-9 January, 2011 | New Delhi |
| 2012 | 7-9 January, 2012 | Jaipur |
| 2013 | 7-9 January, 2013 | Kochi |
| 2014 | 7-9 January, 2014 | New Delhi |
| 2015 | 7-9 January, 2015 | Gandhinagar |
| 2017 | 7-9 January, 2017 | Bengaluru |
| 2019 | 21-23 January, 2019 | Varanasi |
| 2021 | 9 January, 2021 | Virtual |
| 2023 | 8-10 January,2023 | Indore |
| 2025 | 8-10 January,2025 | Bhubaneswar |
Sushma Swaraj Bhawan
Sushma Swaraj Bhawan which was previously known as the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra is another concept you should know about. A Pannel on Indian Diaspora, led by Shri L. M. Singhvi, had suggested in January 2002 that the State must restore and maintain relations of overseas Indians to their area of birth. The panel suggested that a Pravasi Bharatiya Bhavan should be put up to appear as the focal moment for networking between India and its overseas community. Accepting this proposal along in January 2004, at the second Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (PBD) collected in Delhi, then Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee told that the Government will put up the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra in New Delhi. The P.M. Dr Manmohan Singh at 9th PBD in January 2011 laid the foundation stone.
Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Logo
The Logo Depicts:
“the human chain depicts our brotherhood and strength across the world, ‘Ashoka Chakra’ along with the tricolour canopy showing the Worldwide contribution towards development on mankind and peaceful presence of ‘Bharatiya’ and ‘Pravasi Bharatiya’ all around the world”
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Quiz 2026
When is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas observed every year?
A) January 5
B) January 7
C) January 9
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Subhas Chandra Bose
C) Mahatma Gandhi
3. In which year was Pravasi Bharatiya Divas first celebrated?
A) 2000
B) 2001
C) 2003
A) Ministry of Home Affairs
B) Ministry of External Affairs
C) Ministry of Culture
5. Who are referred to as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)?
A) Foreign tourists in India
B) Indian citizens living abroad
C) Foreign nationals of Indian origin
A) Padma Shri
B) Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award
C) Bharat Ratna
A) United States
B) United Kingdom
C) United Arab Emirates
A) NRI
B) OCI
C) Tourist Visa
A) Agricultural exports
B) Tourism promotion
C) Remittances
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Pravasi Bharatiya Divas highlights the deep and lasting bond between India and its global diaspora. It recognizes the vital role overseas Indians play in economic growth, cultural exchange, and international cooperation. The day serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding. It also reinforces the idea that distance does not weaken national identity. Through this observance, India acknowledges the global footprint of its people.
The celebration also encourages future engagement with Non-Resident Indians and people of Indian origin. It opens opportunities for investment, knowledge sharing, and innovation. By bringing diverse voices together, the event strengthens policy discussions and partnerships. It inspires younger generations of the diaspora to connect with their roots. Overall, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas strengthens unity and shared responsibility.
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Start Learning!Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a day dedicated to overseas Indians. It recognizes their contributions to India’s development. The day highlights economic, social, and cultural links. It also strengthens engagement with the Indian diaspora. The event brings NRIs and the Indian government together.
Why is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrated on January 9?
January 9 marks Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa. His return influenced India’s freedom movement. The date symbolizes the role of overseas Indians. It reflects global Indian contributions. This historical connection gives the day significance.
Who organizes Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in India?
The Ministry of External Affairs organizes the event. It works with state governments for hosting. Diplomatic missions support the arrangements. Various Indian institutions participate actively. The ministry coordinates all major sessions.
Who can participate in Pravasi Bharatiya Divas events?
Non-Resident Indians can participate. Overseas Citizens of India are also eligible. Persons of Indian origin often attend. Policy makers and industry leaders join discussions. Scholars and youth representatives also participate.
What is the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award?
It is the highest honor for overseas Indians. The award recognizes exceptional achievements. It also honors service to India’s image abroad. Recipients come from diverse fields. The award is presented during the celebrations.
How do NRIs contribute to India’s economy?
NRIs send significant remittances to India. These funds support families and investments. They contribute to business and startups. Many invest in real estate and markets. Their role strengthens foreign exchange reserves.
What is the difference between NRI and OCI?
An NRI is an Indian citizen living abroad. An OCI is a foreign citizen of Indian origin. NRIs hold Indian passports. OCIs get lifelong visa privileges. Both maintain strong ties with India.
How does Pravasi Bharatiya Divas benefit NRIs?
It provides a platform for dialogue. NRIs share ideas and concerns. They network with policymakers and industries. The event promotes investment opportunities. It also strengthens emotional connections with India.
How often is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrated?
Smaller events may happen annually. The main convention is held biennially. This allows wider planning and participation. State-level programs occur in between. The structure ensures consistent engagement.
Why is the Indian diaspora important to India?
The diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors. They promote India’s values globally. Their skills support innovation and growth. They influence international relations positively. Their global presence strengthens India’s soft power.
