The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra (PBK) will be the prominent centre for Overseas Indians. It will serve as the focal point of the institutional framework to benefit from networks with and among overseas Indians. Addressing on the occasion of Ground-breaking ceremony of the Kendra here today, Shri Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and Civil Aviation said that the Kendra is expected to develop into the hub of activities for sustainable, symbiotic and mutually rewarding economic, social and cultural engagement between India and its Diaspora. He further said that the Kendra would have the facilities such as library/research centre, flexible capacity meeting rooms, Indian Cultural Centre, art auditorium and full fledged business centres etc.
The PBK is going to be established on three plots of lands, measuring about 9800 sq. mts. at Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. The cost of construction of the Kendra has been estimated at about Rs. 80 crore. The National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC) has been appointed as the Consultant and Project Manager on a turn-key basis from concept to completion of the building.The Indian Diaspora constitutes a significant economic, social and cultural force in the world today. Overseas Indians estimated at over 27 million are spread across every region of the world. Their industry, enterprise, education, expertise and economic success are widely recognized. There has been a persistent demand for over a period of time for establishing a Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra to commemorate the trials and tribulations, as well as the subsequent evolution and achievements of the diverse Indian Diaspora. Appreciating the benefits of the Kendra in strengthening linkages between Indians and the Overseas Indian community, the then Prime Minister, in his inaugural address during the 2nd Pravasi Bharatiya Divas-2004, had announced setting up of a Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in Delhi. The idea of establishing the PBK has, however, now translated into reality. The Prime Minister unveiled the foundation stone of the building on 8th January, 2011 during the inauguration of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas-2011 in New Delhi.