India's Diaspora Day: Why January 9 Is Marked As Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?

New Delhi: India has been observing Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) on January 9 every year since 2003. The day was officially introduced after a government committee on the Indian diaspora recommended a special day to recognise the role of Indians living abroad. 

The first PBD convention was held on January 9, 2003, in New Delhi.

Why was January 9 chosen?

January 9 is not just any date on the calendar. It marks the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa. Mahatma Gandhi’s return changed the course of India’s freedom movement and left an enduring imprint on the nation’s history. To honour this connection and symbolise the strong bond between India and its global community, the government chose this date for the diaspora celebration.

What does the observance mean today?

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is India's way of celebrating the Overseas Indian Community (OIC). It recognises the contributions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to India’s growth in fields like business, science, culture and society. The event also acts as a forum where diaspora members can engage with government leaders, share ideas, and strengthen their ties to India.

Over the years, the format of PBD has evolved. While it was an annual gathering until 2015, the event now takes place once every two years. In the intervening years, theme-based diaspora conferences bring together experts, policymakers and community leaders.

What about last year?

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention, focusing on the diaspora's role in building a developed India, was held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in January 2025 with a theme, "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat", following the 2023 event in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, which centered on "Diaspora: Reliable partners for India’s progress in Amrit Kaal," featuring Guyana's President as chief guest, as per Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reports. 

How is the day marked?

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is more than a symbolic date. Conventions run for several days and include plenary sessions, cultural events, discussions and networking. Outstanding achievements by members of the diaspora are recognised with awards like the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. These gatherings are held in different cities across India, inviting delegates from countries around the world.

For many Indians living overseas and their families at home, the day is a reminder of shared roots and contributions, past and present,  to the nation’s story.