Qatar-based delegates had a successful participation in the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), held in the city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, from January 8 to 10. In a statement, the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) said the journey of the 17th PBD began on October 13 with a live telecast of the website's inauguration and declaration of the timeline by India External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
The PBD was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an emphasis on the role of youth and Indians living abroad "in the inclusive growth of India and the Indian diaspora across the globe". The presentation of the PBD awards for 2023 and speech of Indian President Droupadi Murmu at the valedictory session was well-received, the statement noted.
The ICC lauded the Madhya Pradesh chief minister for managing the arrangements, making each delegate feel special, as well as his speeches. The plenary sessions on various subjects were well-attended by delegates. The cultural shows and presentations across Indore highlighted Indian traditions and values.
From the Qatar-based delegates' point of view, the "success story looks simple - involving three months of preparation, 300 registrations (including withdrawals) and three days of celebrations". The statement also stressed hard work put in by volunteers, advisers and supporters behind the scenes.
"On behalf of the ICC and all apex body presidents, the management and co-ordination committees, our sincere thanks to Dr Deepak Mittal, Indian ambassador, for the guidance and encouragement to the team. Special thanks to Xavier Dhanaraj, first secretary at the Indian embassy and co-ordinating officer, ICC, for the support extended on a daily basis to move forward in the planning," the statement said.
The ICC thanked all PBD delegates from Qatar, comprising past PBD awardees, senior community leaders, heads of associated organisations and Indian community members, especially Indore residents based in Qatar, who came together to represent Qatar in large numbers. The Qatar delegation was the third largest among the 70-odd contingents of non-resident Indians participating in the event.
