The government of India has set Oct. 14 as the last date for receiving applications for scholarships from children of expatriates under its scholarship scheme for diaspora children. The scholarship program enables children of persons of Indian origin (PIOs), non-resident Indians (NRIs) and children of Indian workers in ECR countries to pursue undergraduate courses in Indian universities and institutes in various fields except medical and related courses, according to a press release issued by the Consulate General of India. The scholarship amount is given for payment of tuition fee, admission fee and post admission services including hostel fee but excluding payment of food charges. In the first year partial financial assistance is up to 75 percent of the total institutional cost subject to a maximum of $4,000 per annum in respect of NITs and other institutions covered under Direct Admission of Students Abroad (DASA) Scheme. Interested candidates can log on to www.spdcindia.gov.in for details and apply on the portal by Oct. 14 with supporting documents. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas The 14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention will be organized at Bangalore International Exhibition Center (BIEC) on Jan. 7-9, 2017, the consulate announced in a separate press release. "Redefining the engagement with the Indian Diaspora" will be the theme of the convention, which will have plenary sessions, an exhibition, cultural programmes and opportunities to interact with other overseas Indians, policy makers and the political leadership. The highlight of the convention will be the inaugural address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chief ministers of several states will also participate and address the delegates on opportunities available in their respective states. The last day of PBD will feature a valedictory address by the president of India, who will also confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards on Overseas Indians for their achievements and contributions both in India and abroad. The Youth PBD is a new feature added recently. The daylong program will provide a platform to connect with young overseas Indians and discuss subjects of relevance to them. Non-resident Indians and PIOs are encouraged to participate in the upcoming PBD and register online at pbdindia.gov.in at the earliest. The deadline for registration is Dec. 7. There is a special registration fee for young overseas Indians, groups registrations and GOPIO members. Registration fee includes transportation, lunch, dinner and cultural programs. Further details can be obtained by contacting [email protected] or logging on to Facebook page: Pravasi Bhartiya Divas 2017.
