GS2 🤝 International Relations

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

/prəˈvɑː.siː bʰɑːˈrə.tiː.jə diːˈvʌs/

A biennial (since 2015) celebratory event organised by the Government of India on 9 January to honour the contributions of the overseas Indian community to India's development, featuring the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards — the highest honour for overseas Indians.

Context & Background

Announced by PM Vajpayee on 9 January 2002; first convention held 9 January 2003; date commemorates Gandhi's return from South Africa on 9 January 1915; organised by MEA with FICCI and CII.

UPSC Exam Relevance

GS2 (International Relations). Prelims: date (9 January), started (2003), biennial (since 2015), Gandhi connection (return from South Africa 1915). Mains: useful in answers on diaspora engagement policies and soft power.