Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Celebrating India Beyond Its Borders
Siddharth Roy
Civil Engineer, Writer and Columnist
Every year on January 9, India celebrates Pravasi Bharatiya Divas to recognise and honour the contribution of Indians living abroad to the nation’s growth and global standing. The day marks the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India in 1915, a symbolic reminder of how the Indian diaspora has long played a role in shaping India’s destiny. Over the years, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has evolved into more than a ceremonial event. It has become a platform to strengthen India’s engagement with its vast and diverse overseas community.
India today has the largest diaspora in the world, with over 35 million people of Indian origin spread across continents. They include professionals, entrepreneurs, workers, students, scientists, artists and policymakers. From Silicon Valley to the Gulf, from Africa to Europe, Indians abroad have made their mark in every field. Their success has not only enhanced India’s image globally but has also created strong economic, cultural and diplomatic links between India and the world.
One of the most visible contributions of the Indian diaspora is economic. Remittances sent by overseas Indians form a critical pillar of India’s economy. India has consistently been the world’s top recipient of remittances, receiving billions of dollars every year. These funds support families, improve living standards, boost consumption and contribute to rural and urban development. Beyond remittances, diaspora-led investments in sectors such as technology, healthcare, manufacturing and startups have helped fuel innovation and job creation in India.
Equally important is the role the diaspora plays as India’s soft power ambassadors. Indian culture, cuisine, yoga, Ayurveda, films and festivals have found global audiences largely due to the efforts of overseas Indians. The growing popularity of International Yoga Day, Indian food chains, and Bollywood across the world reflects this cultural influence. In many countries, members of the Indian diaspora actively engage in public life, contributing to policymaking and strengthening people-to-people ties between India and their adopted homelands.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas provides an opportunity to acknowledge these contributions while also addressing the challenges faced by overseas Indians. Issues such as worker welfare, especially in the Gulf region, visa uncertainties, discrimination, and access to consular services require continuous attention. Over the years, the Indian government has taken several steps to improve support systems for overseas Indians. Initiatives such as the Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana, e-Migrate portal, Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme, and 24×7 helplines have helped address grievances and enhance protection.
The government has also sought to engage the diaspora more strategically in India’s development journey. Programmes like Know India, Study in India, and the promotion of diaspora bonds aim to deepen emotional and economic connections. Indian missions abroad now play a more proactive role in community engagement, cultural outreach and crisis response, as seen during the evacuation efforts in conflict zones and during the Covid-19 pandemic.
At the same time, the expectations from the diaspora are evolving. Many overseas Indians, particularly the younger generation, seek meaningful ways to contribute to India beyond financial remittances. They bring with them global best practices, skills, innovation and networks. Creating structured platforms for knowledge exchange, research collaboration and mentorship can unlock this potential further. India must ensure that engagement with the diaspora is inclusive, transparent and mutually beneficial.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas also serves as a reminder that the diaspora is not a monolithic group. Their experiences vary widely depending on geography, profession and socio-economic background. While highly skilled professionals in developed countries often enjoy influence and recognition, migrant workers in many regions face vulnerabilities. A balanced diaspora policy must recognise these differences and prioritise dignity, safety and rights for all overseas Indians.
As India positions itself as a major global power, the role of the diaspora becomes even more significant. Overseas Indians can help shape global perceptions of India, counter misinformation, and strengthen India’s voice on international platforms. Their participation in business, education, science and diplomacy complements India’s domestic efforts and expands its global footprint.
Ultimately, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is not just about celebrating success stories. It is about reaffirming a shared identity and responsibility. It underscores the idea that while geography may separate Indians, values, culture and aspirations continue to bind them. For India, nurturing this relationship is both an opportunity and an obligation.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, India’s engagement with its diaspora must move beyond symbolism to sustained partnership. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas reminds us that India’s growth story does not end at its borders. It continues wherever Indians live, work and contribute—quietly, consistently, and with enduring pride in their roots.