Indian youth and their diaspora counterparts should come together in developing strong networks for partnerships in trade , industry, entrepreneurship and social work. This will lead to the creating of wealth and employment which will benefit the masses at large. This was stated by the Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi while inaugurating the 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in New Delhi today.
He said that government is trying to further expand various programmes for youth diaspora so that they could continue to benefit and stay connected to their mother land. These programmes are Know India Programme, Study India Programme, and Scholarship programme for Diaspora Children. Mr. Ravi said that in times of distress and strife, India's heritage represented by the diaspora has to reiterate its tolerance and set an example to the whole world.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Jitendra Singh said that government is in the process of introducing a new National Youth Policy with the vision of empowering the youth of the country. He said the policy aims at developing the youth into a productive work force by providing them the right education and skills besides promoting entrepreneurship.
Mr. Singh said that in the past few years a number of young Indians have started returning home in view of opportunities created by the fast growing Indian economy.
Our correspondent reports that this year the theme of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is Engaging Diaspora : Connecting Across Generations. Around one thousand delegates are participating in the three day convention and 60 speakers are expected to share their knowledge and expertise on various issues concerning overseas Indians and their vision for India. The first day of the convention is dedicated to youth with a view to open new horizons of a strong network of young overseas Indians. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will formal inaugurate the main event tomorrow. The Chief Guest this year's Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas is Malaysian Minister of Natural Resource and Environment, Datuk Seri Palanivel.
