Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 16th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on Saturday in a virtual event. The theme of the convention, aimed at encouraging Indian diaspora to be part of socio-economic development in India, is “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.


Addressing the people, PM Modi said, " Today we have been connected with the internet from various corners of the world but our minds are always connected with Maa Bharti."

Here are the key takeaways of PM Modi's speech



  • PM Modi's address focused on India's strength and capacity to deal with the Covid 19 pandemic. PM Modi congratulated people for the Made in India vaccines and said that this shows how the country is heading towards 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

  • PM Modi also said that India is not only ready to serve its country but to the world with its 2 vaccines and the world awaits how India handles the largest inoculation drive.

  • PM Modi also spoke about how India is handling terrorism and said, " When India stood in the face of terrorism, a world too got the courage to face this challenge. Today, India is using technology to end corruption. Money worth lakhs & crores are directly being credited to account of beneficiary.

  • Today, India is using technology to end corruption. Money worth lakhs and crores are directly being credited to account of beneficiary

  • In the past years, Non-Resident Indians have strengthened their identity in other countries.

  • India used to import PPE kits, masks, ventilators and testing kits from outside but today our nation is self-reliant.

  • The ongoing campaign in India to empower the poor of the country is being discussed around the world.


Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas


The Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas is held in the country every year to sustain and nurture the symbiotic relationship between India and its diaspora, and to address the development challenges that the country faces.

The convention has three segments, the official statement read. It also features a keynote address by the Chief Guest.

The PBD Convention includes two Plenary Sessions -- ‘Role of Diaspora in Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Facing Post Covid Challenges-Scenario in Health, Economy, Social and International Relations’.