The library is a valuable repository of material about the Indian Diaspora including books about India and other countries written by overseas Indians in different languages. A good start has been made with books sent by Indian missions abroad; and more will be added, said Dr. O. N. Chaubey, the librarian. With an emphasis on extensive digital reference material, the library provides access to researchers, journals and scholars.

One of the first conferences at the centre was held by PIOCCI on the sidelines of the BRICKS summit that brought together country coordinators from Brick countries to discuss investment in India, said Mr. Vanlal Huma, the centre’s director. No less than two cabinet meetings have been held in this centre in the very first month. This enabled all ministers to tour the centre later on. Inquiries for bookings are flowing in, he said. The ultra-modern 500-seat auditorium and multi-purpose conference and meeting rooms are major attractions.

It took around 12 years to inaugurate it. In January 2004, during the second Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee announced that the Government will set up the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra in New Delhi. The foundation stone was laid seven years later by the then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in January, 2011 and construction started in April, 2013.

Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra located at the heart of Chanakyapuri, the capital’s diplomatic enclave, at 15A, Dr. Rizal Marg. This is a sparkling tribute to the overseas Indian community; and commemorates their migration to over 150 countries. While visiting this centre’s exhibition and library, the overseas Indians can experience the challenges they faced abroad, their achievements and contributions.