Pravasi Bharatiya Divas - An Experience

Participating in the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is always refreshing and provides a sense of responsibility towards Mother India. Over the years, it has grown as a vast networking event for overseas Indians and Persons of Indian Origin. Undoubtedly, the Indian diaspora brings significant benefits to India in knowledge, skill, investment, and cultural diversity. Perhaps it would become more meaningful if it should focus more on a two-way process. 

I fondly remember mostly all PBD's, but my last participation in Varanasi was unique, as it was a huge celebration first time in my home State of Uttar Pradesh. Many iconic personalities, including Hemamalini, performed beautiful classical dance. First time I have seen that the whole City was well decorated and cleaned by the municipal corporation. When I left City, my only wish was that Varanasi Municipal Corporation could maintain that cleanliness. 

Veteran actor Hema Malini performing at the 'Pravasi Bharatiya Divas' in Varanasi in 2019 Video Courtesy ANI

The celebration of PBD is pivotal for the Indian diaspora as it strengthens belonging and builds stronger connections between people and communities.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in India has been celebrated since 2003 on the 09th of January to commemorate the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to Mumbai, India, in 1915. The freedom struggles and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi not only inspire the Indians but people across the globe.

United Nations Report International Migration 2020 published Indian diaspora is the largest globally, with over 18 million people from India living outside India. 

Ireland historically is a country of emigration and has become a country of immigration where various diasporas from almost every country of the world live here, and it provides a unique mosaic of cultures. Over forty-five thousand people of Indian origin live in Ireland, and they form a strong connection between our two knowledge-based economies. 

Air connectivity between two countries is vital for international trade, and it enables the countries to attract investment and human capital. It also boosts tourism. The Air connectivity between Ireland and India would prove a game-changer for the Indian Diaspora and Irish-Indian trade. 

The Irish Universities Association reported that over 32,000 international students enrolled in the Irish universities, and over 2,000 students are from India. 

Being the only English speaking country in the EU, Ireland is strategically positioned as a gateway for Europe and North America and could bridge India and the western economies.

The Reserve Bank of India, in its report, acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora. In 2017-2018 remittances financed 43% of the country's trade deficit, and in 2018 $80 billion inward remittances were made by the diaspora. 

The young professionals in India are reinventing modern technologies that stimulate knowledge-based industries and social advancement. The regular exchanges between indigenous professionals and the Indian diaspora will play a meaningful role in tapping new opportunities and addressing emerging global challenges. 

(Prashant Shukla is an entrepreneur and Chair of Ireland India Council, holds his degree in Science, pursued MBA specialised in International Law & Diplomacy. Studied Immigration and Racial Studies from TCD. His interests include Irish Indian relations.)