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Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) - UPSC International Relations
What is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in UPSC International Relations?
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a key topic under International Relations for UPSC Civil Services Examination. Key points include: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a biennial event on Jan 9, celebrating the Indian diaspora's contributions.. It commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa in 1915.. The first PBD Convention was held in 2003 under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.. Understanding this topic is essential for both UPSC Prelims and Mains preparation.
Why is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) important for UPSC exam?
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a Medium-level topic in UPSC International Relations. It is tested in both Prelims (factual MCQs) and Mains (analytical answer writing). Previous year UPSC questions have frequently covered aspects of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), making it essential for comprehensive IAS preparation.
How to prepare Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) for UPSC?
To prepare Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) for UPSC: (1) Study the comprehensive notes covering all key concepts on Vaidra. (2) Practice previous year questions on this topic. (3) Connect it with current affairs using daily updates. (4) Revise using key takeaways and mind maps available for International Relations. (5) Write practice answers linking Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) to related GS Paper topics.
Key takeaways of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) for UPSC
- Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a biennial event on Jan 9, celebrating the Indian diaspora's contributions.
- It commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa in 1915.
- The first PBD Convention was held in 2003 under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
- PBD aims to foster engagement, support diaspora welfare, and leverage their contributions to India's development.
- Recent conventions highlight initiatives like Pravasi Bharatiya Express and acknowledge historical groups like Girmitiyas.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)
Medium⏱️ 9 min read
international relations
📖 Introduction
Introduction to Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a significant biennial event that celebrates the immense contributions of the Indian diaspora to their homeland, India.
It serves as a crucial platform for engagement between overseas Indians and the Indian government and people.
Observance: Biennially on 9th January.
18th PBD Convention (2025): Hosted by Odisha from 8th to 10th January.
Theme: 'Diaspora: Contribution to a Vibrant Bharat' (Developed India).
Historical Significance: Mahatma Gandhi's Return
The date 9th January holds profound historical significance for PBD.
It commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi, often hailed as the "greatest Pravasi" (migrant), to India from South Africa in 1915.
His return marked a pivotal moment, as he subsequently led India's freedom struggle.
Primary Goals of PBD
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was established with several key objectives to foster stronger ties with the Indian diaspora.
- To commemorate the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s overall development.
- To foster a better and more accurate understanding of India abroad among the global community.
- To garner support for India’s causes and work towards the welfare of local Indian communities across the world.
- To provide a robust platform for overseas Indians to actively engage with the government and the people of their ancestral land.
Evolution of PBD Conventions
The concept of PBD Conventions was formally institutionalized to facilitate structured engagement with the overseas Indian community.
First PBD Convention: Established in 2003.
Initiated by: Government under then Prime Minister Late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Purpose: To recognize and actively engage with the global Indian diaspora.
Highlights of the 18th PBD Convention (2025)
The recent 18th PBD Convention, held in Odisha, featured several significant initiatives and discussions.
- The Prime Minister of India inaugurated the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train designed for the Indian diaspora.
- This express service was part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana, an initiative by the Ministry of External Affairs.
- An exhibition was also inaugurated, showcasing rare historical documents of people who migrated from Mandvi in Gujarat to Muscat in Oman.
The Prime Minister emphasized the historical significance of Girmitiyas. These were indentured labourers in pre-independent India who were sent to various countries.
Key destinations included Fiji, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, among others, highlighting their enduring legacy.
💡 Key Takeaways
- •Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is a biennial event on Jan 9, celebrating the Indian diaspora's contributions.
- •It commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa in 1915.
- •The first PBD Convention was held in 2003 under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
- •PBD aims to foster engagement, support diaspora welfare, and leverage their contributions to India's development.
- •Recent conventions highlight initiatives like Pravasi Bharatiya Express and acknowledge historical groups like Girmitiyas.
🧠 Memory Techniques
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