London:
London will host this year's three-day Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (RPBD) convention from October 16, Asian Lite, a leading newspaper for British-Asians in London, reported.
The main events will take place at Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre (QEIICC) at Westminster in London. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will inaugurate the event on October 17.
The topics for the panel discussions include role and contribution of the Indian diaspora to the British/European societies and economies; how the Diaspora and the Indian government can leverage each others' strengths to mutual benefit in the framework of India-Britain strategic partnership; opportunities and challenges in India-Britain collaboration in trade and investments, including in third countries; NRI/PIO businesses in European countries; and scope and potential of the diaspora's engagement in education, research and innovation in India.
The three-day event will end with a gala dinner hosted by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) on Saturday.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), the annual conclave of the Indian disapora, is held in India in January every year to mark the contributions of the overseas Indian community in the development of India.
Regional PBDs are organised by the MOIA with the collaboration of the host government, the Indian mission, prominent overseas Indians and organisations catering to the needs of the Indian diaspora.
The objective is to reach out to those members of the community who have been unable to participate in the annual PBD in India and to provide a platform for the Indian community in Britain and Europe to contribute to the relationship between countries of the region and India. Participation in the event is expected from all part of Britain and other countries of Europe.
This convention is not only for the Indian community, but for all people who are interested in plugging into India's growing relationship with Britain and Europe. Over 1,000 delegates are expected to attend.
The programme of the event will also feature discussions on different aspects of India's relationship with Britain and other countries of Europe, including resources, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, skills and education, languages, women in business and culture.
Speakers at the event will include dignitaries from Britain and India, prominent members of the Indian community, British and Indian business representatives, academics and mediapersons.