It is now known that the Government of India will hold the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on a biennial basis. Does the OIA department have a plan for holding Regional PBDs in between the PBDs? If so, in which countries are we likely to see such engagements?

Right after the January PBD convention we will have to chalk out a programme in order to determine what we need to do between now and the next PBD which is two years away. Currently we are brainstorming on that. Mini PBD will be on the agenda. At the same time we will be looking at how we can energize and invigorate more diaspora philanthropic activity, economic engagement, tourism, yoga, holistic health, education. At present we are chalking out a very balanced and rational system that can engaged diaspora in different parts of the world.

Please let us know what facilities and opportunities are available at the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra for overseas Indians…

The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra is a unique facility, intended to bring diaspora in one place. It will provide space for intellectual, cultural, educational activities. Besides, it will be able to showcase exhibitions and galleries. Smaller conventions and meetings can take place there. There is a small residential facility for visiting members of diaspora which will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. We are currently formulating guidelines on how best to put it to use.