During the event, 15 NRIs were awarded by President A P J Abdul Kalam for their meritorious contributions to furthering India's interests and causes. In his address, the Presient called upon overseas Indians to provide leadership for transforming India's villages with their experiences and knowledge.

Chief ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Kerala elaborated upon the progress made by their states over the years in a bid to attract NRI investments.

However, the event had its own share of controversies. Some delegates protested against an award being given to Dr Sudhir Parikh, a practicing consulting allergist, who they claimed was a hardcore supporter of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi. "He is a Modi supporter. He is a Godhra supporter," shouted Shaktinath Chaudhury, a US citizen, as President Kalam was conferring the award on Dr Parikh.

The first Overseas Citizenship India cards were also presented during the 3-day event. The first two cards were presented to Nirvruti Rai and Iftar Ahmed Sherief.

In Picture: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Photograph : Jewella C Miranda

Also See:
How chief ministers woo NRIs
Lessons from the Pravasi Mela
Complete Coverage: PBD 2006