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Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, also popularly known as the NRI Day, is a popular biennial event that is held on 9 January. On this day, people across India pay their respects and tribute to the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa. He is the greatest Pravasis of all time who dedicated his life to liberating India from imperial power. Additionally, the day also highlights the contribution of the Overseas Indian community in fostering and promoting the development of India.
| Event Name | Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India’s Progress in Amrit Kaal |
| Observed on | 9 January |
| Type of event | Observed once in every two years |
| Objective | The date is specifically chosen to pay tribute to the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India from South Africa. |
| 2026 Theme | Observed once every two years |
History of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Here are a few key points about the history of this important day:
- The NRI Day or the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was first observed in the year 2003.
- It was declared a biennial event in 2015 and has been celebrated since then in 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025.
- So far, India has celebrated a total of 17 PBDs, with the year 2026 marking the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on 9 January.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Celebrations
- On this occasion, a wide range of theme-focused PBD seminars are organized, witnessing enthusiastic involvement from international diaspora specialists, key influencers, and government decision-makers.
- These events and gatherings act as an ideal forum for Indians living abroad to interact directly with authorities and collaborate on initiatives that are beneficial to all parties involved.
- In addition, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas offers many chances for individuals to build connections with members of the global Indian diaspora settled across various countries.
- Furthermore, individuals who demonstrate outstanding contributions are recognized and presented with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. In 2019, the Indian Community Association in Egypt (ICAE) received this honor for its community service efforts during the 15th PBD Convention held in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
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What is the Theme of NRI Day 2026?
The official theme of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas or the NRI Day 2026 has not been declared by the official sources yet. However, the previous year’s theme of 2023, as specified by the Ministry of External Affairs, is Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India’s Progress in Amrit Kaal. As it suggests, the theme prioritizes the importance of the Indian diaspora in the overall development and growth of the country. Here are the previous years’ themes:
| Year | Theme |
| 2026 | Tentative |
| 2023 | Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat |
| 2019 | Role of Indian Diaspora in building a New India |
| 2017 | Redefining Engagement with the Indian Diaspora |
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What is the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award?
The Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award is the highest honor bestowed on:
- An NRI
- Person of Indian Origin
- An organization/institution established and run by Non-Resident Indians or Persons of Indian Origin.
In simple words, it appreciates and pays respect to their significant contributions in supporting the growth and development of the country. Moreover, it also acknowledges their efforts to support the cause and concerns of India and the welfare of the local Indian community.
Pravasi Bhartiya Divas 2026: Wishes, Messages, and Quotes
- “Even in darkness, there is light and that is spiritually illuminated India.” Shubhangi Gopal Kamble.
- “Non-resident Indians (NRI) are natural and bright rays of spiritually enlightened India to illuminate the rest of the world.” Shubhangi Gopal Kamble.
- “We have so much to give to the world. What is needed is the confidence in ourselves.” Narendra Modi.
- “I know the problems you faced. That is why visa-on-arrival facilities are being made available for several nations.” Narendra Modi.
- “Be patriotic every day not just a day.” Shubhangi Gopal Kamble.
- “The Indian community is admired all around the world. It is not due to the money but the values the Indian community is living with” Narendra Modi.
- Pravasi Bharatiya Divas brings together all the NRIs and creates an environment of love and patriotism. Happy Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026.
- 9th January 2026 special day is a day that brings together all the NRIs and creates a space of love and patriotism. Happy Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2026.
FAQS
Ans: Every year, 9 January has been chosen as the official date for the NRI Day or the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. On this day in 1915, Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa.
Ans: The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award has been awarded to numerous influential people such as Dr. Kannan Ambalam, Mr. Joginder Singh Nijjar, and Prof. Jagadish Chennupati. Science & Technology/Education, Prof. Ramjee Prasad, and so on.
Ans: The 17th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas convention was held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
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