The 10th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has concluded in Jaipur on Monday. The President Mrs Pratibha Devisingh Patil addressed the valedictory function and conferred Pravasi Bhartiya Samman for 2012 to 14 eminent personalities and Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce, for their excellent work in various fields overseas.

Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago , Ms Kamla Prasad Bissessar, the chief guest of this year's Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, also received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for her public service.

The President said that Health, Education and Skill Development are the focus areas of the government and these sectors need more private investment. She said that overseas Indians can play their role in progress of the country by contributing knowledge and experience.

The President said that government is keenly interested in well being of the people living abroad. She said that over 27 million overseas Indians have done very well in their areas and India always look forward to learning from their rich experiences.

Mrs Patil said that Indian Community welfare Fund has now been extended to all Indian Missions. She also praised the “Know India ” programme and said that exchange of youth must continue to maintain the tradition of close bonds.

Addressing the veledictory session, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Kamla Prasad Bissessar said that education is must for development of any country.

She said that gender inequality is a challenge and it should be addressed. Ms. Bissessar said that India is emerging as a cultural and economic power and Mining and Oil are the areas where Trinidad and Tobago can develop partnership.

On this occasion, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Vaylar Ravi announced that next Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will be organized in Dubai this year.

He said that government is committed to take action on partnerships made between Overseas Indians and Indian entrepreneurs during Pravasi Bhartiya Divas.

He said that a programme for skill development for youth to get employment abroad will be launched next year. Rajasthan Governor Shivraj Patil and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot were also present in the concluding session.