PBD 2012 concludes in Jaipur

PBD 2012 concludes in Jaipur

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas(PBD) 2012 concluded in Jaipur with President Pratibha Devisingh Patil's call to Indian diaspora worldwide to play a decisive role with their knowledge, talent and resources to meet the challenge of sustainable development with full safeguards to interest of future generations. Delivering valedictory address at the concluding ceremony at the Birla Auditorium here, Ms Patil said, "In this century, human society faces the daunting yet inspiring task of forging 'sustainability,' in all its activities, so that while meeting current human needs, requirement of future generations are also safeguarded". "It is a great challenge and you all can play a decisive role with the knowledge and experience you have gained as academics or scholars, scientists and technologists, professionals or businessmen," the President exhorted.
She also sought greater role from overseas Indians for development and prosperity in India and said,'' we would continue to actively engage with the overseas Indian community as partners in the development and progress of India.'' Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar was the Chief Guest, while Rajasthan Governor Shivraj Patil, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Overseas Indians Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi, President Patil's husband Devi Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister Mahadev Singh Khandela were also present on the occasion. The President also presented Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards to 15 distinguished NRIs, PIOs for their outstanding contributions in different fields that enhanced India's prestige