External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on November 11 launched the official website for the 19th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention alongside West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, setting the stage for a three-day event in Kolkata from January 7 to 9, 2027. The convention will be organised in partnership with the West Bengal government under the theme, “From Roots to Return: Reigniting Diaspora Connect with Bharat”.
The event is expected to strengthen India’s engagement with its overseas community and create opportunities for greater cultural, economic and knowledge exchanges. Speaking at the launch, Jaishankar described the Indian diaspora as a “living bridge” between India and the world, highlighting its contribution to innovation, enterprise, culture and the global exchange of ideas and knowledge. He said overseas Indians were important stakeholders in India’s present and future.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the theme seeks to reinforce the civilisational, cultural and emotional bonds of the diaspora with India, while encouraging younger generations to rediscover their roots and engage with contemporary Bharat.
The convention will open with Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Prime Minister NarendraModi will inaugurate the event, while President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the valedictory session and confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, recognising outstanding contributions by overseas Indians across various fields and their role in strengthening India’s global engagement.
