Why January 9 Matters to India’s Global Story
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025: Celebrating the Global Indian, Rooted in Pride: Every year, January 9 is a reminder of how deeply India’s freedom movement and global diaspora are connected. It marks the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa in 1915, symbolising how Indians abroad can shape the destiny of the nation. That spirit lives on in Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) — and in 2025, the 18th edition is hosted in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8 to 10. It’s not just a celebration, but a moment to reflect on how 35 million overseas Indians continue to power India’s journey forward.
This Year’s Theme: Global Indians and Viksit Bharat
The 2025 theme, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat,” aligns with India’s ambitious goal of becoming a developed country by 2047. Whether it’s engineers in the U.S., doctors in the UAE, or entrepreneurs in Africa, the diaspora contributes through investment, innovation, and cultural outreach. For example, Indian-origin tech CEOs like Sundar Pichai not only lead global companies but also strengthen India’s reputation in the world.
From Odisha to the World: A Truly Global Gathering
PBD 2025 kicks off with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar. A highlight is the virtual address by President Christine Carla Kangaloo of Trinidad and Tobago, symbolising India’s long-standing ties with the Caribbean, shaped by the migration of indentured labourers during colonial rule. Delegates from over 50 countries, including the U.S., Fiji, Mauritius, and the UK, will participate, reflecting the diverse global face of Indian heritage.
Honouring Excellence: Pravasi Bharatiya Samman 2025
One of the most awaited moments of PBD is the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, given to 27 distinguished NRIs and PIOs this year. Their achievements in education, welfare, business, and diplomacy highlight how Indians abroad continue to uplift global communities while remaining connected to India. President Droupadi Murmu will present these awards during the valedictory session on January 10, bringing the event to a close with national pride.
Exhibitions, Innovations, and Economic Talks
PBD isn’t just about honouring the past — it’s also a platform for building the future. Exhibitions like Vishwaroop Ram trace how the Ramayana influenced cultures in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean. At the same time, Tech for Bharat by Bharat explores how Indian-origin startups are advancing AI, climate tech, and digital health globally. On the business front, Odisha will showcase its mineral wealth, skilled workforce, and port infrastructure, pitching itself as an investment-ready state to global investors.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT FOR COMPETITIVE EXAMS
| Topic | Fact |
| Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 Venue | Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
| Dates | January 8–10, 2025 |
| PBD Commemoration Date | January 9 (Gandhi’s return in 1915) |
| First PBD Held | 2003 |
| 2025 Theme | “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” |
| Inaugurated By | PM Narendra Modi |
| Chief Guest | Christine Kangaloo (Trinidad & Tobago) – virtual address |
| Valedictory Address By | President Droupadi Murmu |
| Pravasi Bharatiya Samman 2025 | 27 awardees (from U.S., Fiji, Mauritius, etc.) |
| Largest NRI Population | UAE – Over 3.5 million |
| Largest PIO Population | USA – Over 2 million |
| India’s Total Overseas Indian Count | 35.4 million (NRIs + PIOs combined) |
