Recession behind high turnout for Pravasi fest?

NEW DELHI: The global economic crisis and loss of opportunities abroad has translated in overseas Indians making a beeline for India. Not only is the 9th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas expected to draw about 1,500 delegates — as opposed to 1,300 last year — the applications for overseas citizens' cards have also gone up by 30% in one year.

"India is witnessing a reverse migration and this is to a large extent dependent on the shrinking economic opportunities abroad. This has contributed to reverse migration to the country,'' Didar Singh, overseas Indian affairs secretary, said.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2011 will kickstart on January 7 and will primarily focus on showcasing the Northeast as an attractive investment destination and enhancing two-way engagement with young Indians living abroad.

Nearly 1,500 overseas Indians from 51 countries, including top businessmen, economists and scientists, will participate in the three-day conclave. Incidentally, Malaysia is expected to send the largest delegation of over 200 people followed by about 90 delegates from US, 25 from Singapore and 20 from UK.

According to overseas Indian affairs minister Vayalar Ravi the promise made in the last Pravasi Bharatiya Divas of giving Indians living abroad voting rights would soon be realized. The ministry is currently in discussion with the Election Commission over the creation of electoral rolls. While the ministry would like overseas citizens to be enrolled online, the EC has stressed on physical verification. "We are talking to the EC and a resolution will be reached soon,'' Ravi said.