Remarks
by Ambassador of India to Venezuela Shri Abhishek Singhon PravasiBhartiya Divas
2021
My
dear PravasiBhartiya,
Happy
New Year
Let me at the outset, convey my
greetings on the occasion of PravasiBhartiya Divas, 2021. I am indeed privileged to virtually meet all
of you on this important day. As you know, PravasiBhartiya Divas is
being celebrated since 2003. The day, 9thJanuary was chosen to mark the return of Mahatma
Gandhi from South Africa on this day in 1915.
2. It
is a day to celebrate the deep bonds that you have with India and also an occasion
to celebrate your achievements and contributions towards strengthening the
bonds of friendship with Venezuela.
3. We
are meeting at a time of unprecedented challenges due to the COVID
pandemic. There has been huge disruption
all over the world including Venezuela due to this pandemic. Though vaccine have been approved in several
countries including India, we are still some distance from getting back to
normalcy. Government of India and its
various Embassies have worked throughout the pandemic. For me it is a matter of satisfaction to
share that despite the challenges, members of the Embassy reported on duty
throughout the pandemic and performed their respectivework at the Embassy.
Friends,
4. The
Indian diaspora around the world has made significant contribution to the
political, economic and social context of their adopted country. In the process they have strengthened the
bonds of friendship leading to strong linkages between India and many other
countries.
5. The
Indian diaspora which is now more than 30 million have become part and parcel
of the country they or their ancestors adopted but they have not forgotten
their roots. The Indian diaspora has
remarkably preserved their tradition and culture and are known throughout the
world to celebrate our festivals with great fervour. I must add that in Venezuela the Indian
diaspora is relatively small but each one of you and many others who have not
been able to participate today, have contributed in their field and thereby further
strengthened India Venezuela relationship.
6. The
16thPravasiBhartiya Divas Convention was held in virtual format on 9th
January (midnight here), in New Delhi. PBD convention is the flagship event for
the Government’s engagement with the Indian Diaspora and for recognizing their
contribution in the development of India. The primary theme of the 16th
PBD Convention 2021 is “Contribution to Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, and Facing
Post-Covid Challenges – Scenario in Health, Economy, Social and International
relations.
Friends,
7. Hon’ble
Prime Minister addressed the inaugural session in the morning and Hon’ble Rashtrapatiji
delivered the valedictory address in the evening.In between the two sessions,
“Role of Diaspora in Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “Facing post-Covid challenges”
were held. Mr. ChandrikapersadSantokhi, President of Surinam was the Chief
Guest of the event. Awards including “PravasiBhartiyaSamman Award” and “Bharat
Ko Janiya Quiz” were announced. Also a PBD conference on Youth took place on 8th
January.
Friends,
8. Government
of India from time to time announces flagship initiatives for the Indian
Diaspora population around the world. A few of them, just to recall, are:
a)
Overseas Citizenship of Indiawas introduced by The Citizenship
(Amendment) Act, 2005 in response to demands for dual citizenship by the Indian
diaspora, particularly in developed countries. The
OCI is a multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India; exempted from
reporting to Police authorities for any length of stay in India; and enjoying
parity with NRIs in financial, economic and educational fields except in the
acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.
b) Madad Portal - All
NRI/PIOs/Students may register themselves as MADAD user of the Madad Portal of
Government of India, for any grievance related to consular services offered by
Indian Missions/Posts abroad or any other kind of grievance needs to be
attended.
c) Know-India
Programme for the Indian Origin Youth from 18-30 years of age who have
never visited India before. All expenses except 10% of the air-fare are covered
by the Government of India. The Diaspora Children who have participated in the
Programme till now have benefitted from it.
d) Bharat
koJaniye Quiz is being organized every year by Government of India for NRIs
& PIOs. The aim is to create awareness amongst the Indian Diaspora from the
age 15 to 35 years, about India and to inspire them to contribute to the growth
and development of the land of their roots;
e) ADhaiAkhar Letter
Writing Campaign is held for the Indian Diaspora with 02 categories upto 18
years and above 18 years by the India Post. The theme was ‘Letter to my
Motherland’. The objective again was to provide a platform to the Indian
Diaspora to connect with India and express their feelings in a free manner.
Friends,
9.
I am reiterating some of the schemes of the Government of India today to
emphasize how much the Government of India cares for its people abroad and
would like them to always be in touch with their nation.
10. It
is important to mention here that our Embassy and the Consular Wing did not
close even for a single day during the entire period of Covid and has
facilitated repatriation of Stranded Indians/students from Caracas and the
Dutch islands under the consular jurisdiction of the Embassy. Our Embassy was one
of the first to manage repatriation flights from Curacao and Sint Maarten
amongst the South American countries.
11. Soon our Mission will be part of Global
Passport Seva Project, an endeavour of the Government to create a common
platform for all passport and consular services seeker.
12. Government
is also working towards creating a Mobile App for foreigners facilitation
involving e-Visa, regular visa and visa on arrival.
Friends,
13. Last
but not the least, on 30th December 2020 Government of India has
launched Global Pravasi # Rishta Portal & Mobile App. ‘Rishta’ will act as
a dynamic communication platform between our Pravasis& Ministry of External
Affairs/Missions abroad and will help in engaging our diaspora.
14. Before
closing, I would like to assure all the members of the Indian diaspora
community in Venezuela that you are always welcome in the Embassy of India,
Caracas and it is indeed your “Home away from Home”.
Thank you all.
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