India (Commonwealth Union)_ The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA), the highest distinction for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and organizations established by them, was presented during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, taking place from January 8 to January 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This prestigious recognition acknowledges the significant contributions of overseas Indians in a variety of fields, both in India and their host countries. Odisha is hosting the PBD Convention for the first time, highlighting the state’s rich cultural, historical, and spiritual heritage.
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The event has attracted more than 5,000 delegates from over 50 countries. The theme for the convention, “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), highlights the crucial role that the Indian diaspora plays in shaping India’s future. During the event’s valedictory session, the Honorable President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards to 27 distinguished members of the global Indian community. These awardees have been selected for their exemplary work in fields such as community service, education, science, medicine, business, and public affairs. A Jury-cum-Awards Committee, chaired by the Vice-President of India and supported by other eminent members, reviewed the nominations and unanimously chose the awardees.
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The inauguration of the convention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the significant role the diaspora plays in India’s ambition to become a developed nation. He also launched the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train for the diaspora, which will travel across India’s cultural and religious landmarks for three weeks. Additionally, a virtual address by Christine Carla Kangaloo, the President of Trinidad and Tobago, further emphasized the global importance of the event. The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards 2025 recognized individuals and organizations for their outstanding efforts. The awardees are:
- Prof. Ajay Rane from Australia was honored for his contributions to community service.
- Dr. Marialena Joan Fernandes from Austria was recognized for her work in education.
- Dr. Philomena Ann Mohini Harris from Barbados was celebrated for her achievements in medical science.
- Swami Sanyuktanand from Fiji was awarded for his exceptional community service.
- Saraswati Vidya Niketan from Guyana was also honored for community service.
- Dr. Lekh Raj Juneja from Japan was acknowledged for his contributions to science and technology.
- Dr. Prem Kumar from Kyrgyz Republic was awarded for his achievements in medical science.
- Soukthavy Chowdhury from Laos was honored for his contributions to business.
- Krishna Savjani from Malawi was also recognized for his business acumen.
- Tan Sri’ Dr. Subramaniam K.V. Sathasivam from Malaysia was honoured for his political contributions.
- Dr. Sarita Boodhoo from Mauritius was recognized for her community service.
- Mr. Abhaya Kumar from Moldova was honored for his entrepreneurial spirit in business.
- Dr. Ram Niwas @ Hla Tun from Myanmar was celebrated for his contributions to education.
- Jaggannath Shekhar Asthana from Romania was recognized for his business leadership.
- Hindustani Samaj from Russia was honored for its continuous community service.
- Sudha Rani Gupta from Russia was honored for her work in education.
- Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed from Saudi Arabia was acknowledged for his contributions to medical science.
- Atul Arvind Temurnikar from Singapore was honored for his work in education.
- Robert Masih Nahar from Spain was recognized for his impactful community service.
- Dr. Kaushik Laxmidas Ramaiya from Tanzania was celebrated for his achievements in medicine.
- H.E. Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT from Trinidad & Tobago was honored for her role in public affairs.
- Ramakrishnan Sivaswamy Iyer from the UAE was recognized for his business contributions.
- Bonthala Subbaiah Setty Ramesh Babu from Uganda was acknowledged for his community service.
- Baroness Usha Kumari Prashar from the UK was honored for her political leadership.
- Dr. Sharad Lakhanpal from the USA was celebrated for his work in medicine.
- Dr. Sharmila Ford from the USA was recognized for her community service.
- Ravi Kumar S. from the USA was honored for his significant contributions to IT & consulting in business.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention offers a unique platform to strengthen ties between India and its diaspora. This year’s event in Odisha highlights the state’s growing global presence while reinforcing the importance of the Indian diaspora in India’s ongoing development. The exchange of ideas and experiences at the convention helps foster a shared vision for a prosperous and developed India. As the global Indian community continues to grow and evolve, the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards 2025 serve as a reminder of the significant and lasting impact of the diaspora on both India and the world. By celebrating their exceptional achievements, the awards inspire others to contribute toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
