Regional Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas in Sydney Nov 10 -12, 2013

Regional PBD

High Commission of India

Canberra

The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs of the Government of India has decided to hold the 2013 Regional Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas Convention in Sydney over three days from November 10 -12, 2013.

 Shri Vayalar Ravi, Hon. Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and the Hon. Barry O’Farrell, Premier of NSW, jointly made the announcement at 1530 Hrs AEST via a video link simultaneously in New Delhi and Sydney.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Vayalar Ravi noted that the objective of the event is to reach out to those members of the community who have been unable to participate in the annual PBD in India, and to provide a platform for the Indian community in Australia and the Pacific to contribute to the relationship between countries of the region and India.

Shri Vayalar Ravi also remarked that the Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas (PBD) has been celebrated in India on January 9th each year since 2003 to mark the contributions of the overseas Indian community in the development of India.

Noting the significance of the date of PBD, in his remarks Mr. O’Farrell said that Mahatma Gandhi was a “universal icon”, and not just an Indian one. “Sydney is the perfect location for this conference as it is Australia’s financial and cultural capital”, he said.

Regional PBDs are organised by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs with the collaboration of the host Government, the Indian Mission, Prominent Overseas Indians and Organisations catering to the needs of the Indian Diaspora.

Participation in the event is expected from all States and Territories of Australia and from neighbouring countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Manila, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Fiji and the Pacific Islands.

This convention is not only for the Indian community, but for all persons who are interested in plugging into India’s growing relationship with Australia and other Pacific countries. It is expected that more than a thousand individuals will participate in the conference.

The programme of the event will feature discussions on different aspects of India’s relationship with Australia and countries of the region including resources, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, skills and education, languages, women in business and culture.

Speakers at the event will include Ministers and prominent dignitaries from Australia and India, prominent members of the Indian community, Australian and Indian business representatives and academicians and media persons.

Details regarding the registration, venue and accommodation/logistics will be made available by end-June, 2013.

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