PRAVASI BHARTIYA DIWAS 2006 TO BE HELD IN HYDERABAD

The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs will host the Fourth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas (PBD) in Hyderabad from January 7–9, 2006. Shri Jagdish Tytler, Minister of State (Independent charge) for Overseas Indian Affairs, made this announcement while he was present today.

The Minister claimed that Hyderabad was picked because it is a significant historical, cultural, and commercial city in Southern India as well as a top location for high-tech, biotech, and IT. The State of Andhra Pradesh is home to a sizable population of Indians who have emigrated, most of whom work in the Gulf and are highly skilled professionals who have made significant contributions to the socioeconomic development of India.

The Indian government has made the decision to annually move PBD from one State to the next, using the event as a platform to highlight the accomplishments of that State and its Region, as well as to project the federation’s strengths and emphasize its diversity while also highlighting its unity.

The Shilpakala Vedika in nearby Madhapur will serve as the primary venue for plenary and other sessions, while the Shilparamam Art Complex will host cultural events and exhibits of art and crafts from different Indian States. The opening session will take place at the Cyberabad Convention Center. The trade, business, banking, and investment stalls as well as pavilions set up by various States depicting their developments and showcasing leading projects inviting Overseas Indian participation will be located at the HITEX Complex or the Shilpakala Vedika Complex.

The event will once again be launched on January 7 by the prime minister, as it has in the past. On January 9, Rashtrapatiji will present the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman awards. A plenary session with the minister of overseas Indian affairs will take place, as well as a special session on a chosen subject. In addition, there will be sessions on investments, healthcare, education, and rural development, among other topics. There will also be a discussion with three to four state governments. The event will feature four cultural evenings, including performances by Diaspora youth cultural groups, Indian folk music and dance ensembles, a movie-themed show, and a light and sound show.

The occasion will mark the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs’ second direct interaction with members of the Indian Diaspora and give the government a chance to reaffirm its commitment to developing enduring relationships with the overseas Indian community.