Regional PBD ends; India keen to harness growing power of diaspora

MELBOURNE: India is keen to harness the growing power of its diaspora, their contribution to homeland and the progressing ties with Australia fostered by strong trade and investment links as the three-day Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas concluded today in Sydney.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was an initiative to recognise the 4,50,000 people of Indian origin in Australia and those in New Zealand and Fiji, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Valayar Ravi said.

"India wishes to harness the growing power of its Diaspora, their contribution to homeland India and the progressing relationship between the two countries (India and Australia), fostered by strong trade and investment links," he said.

The Minister also assured overseas Indians that the government of India would continue to look out for and serve the interests of the growing Indian diaspora that is more than 25 million around the world.

"I am very enthused with the participation and I hope to take back a lot of shared experiences that will help enhance the engagement with overseas Indians," Ravi, who launched the Seventh convention with New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell on Monday, said.

The event initiated several important discussions during bilateral business sessions.

Indian High Commissioner for Australia Biren Nanda said: "Participation in the event was from all states and territories of Australia and from neighbouring countries including New Zealand and Fiji, attracting about 500 delegates from the Asia Pacific region."

The convention has been overall appreciated by several participants as a positive initiative for the Indian diaspora living in the region. However, many attendees criticised the registration fee of 425 Australian dollar and the event being held on working days.