Thaindian News

New Delhi, April 28 (IANS) Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi Thursday laid the foundation stone here for a “Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra” - intended for discussions and research on the issues of Indian abroad to strengthen ties with the 27 million strong diaspora in 130 countries.

“This kendra is going to be a major centre of activity for ‘Pravasi Bharatiyas’. The centre will have exhibitions and library and other facilities for the overseas Indians,” Ravi said in his address on the occasion.

The 9,800 square-metre centre, in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, would be used to host a number of seminars, exhibitions and will provide a forum for discussion on the issues relating to the Indian diaspora, he said.

“We want to make this centre a regular place for discussions and seminars on the issues and matters of the overseas India, their contribution and close association to the country,” Ravi said.

The building will also have a research centre on Indian diaspora studies.

“The building will have facilities needed for enhancing connectivity between India and its diaspora. The centre will also have a research centre on diaspora studies with specific research program,” Overseas Indian Affairs Secretary A. Didar Singh told IANS.

The centre is being build by the National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC) at a cost of Rs.80 crore and is expected to be completed by April 2013.

“The NBCC chairman has promised me that that he will complete the building in time and I promise him that I will pay him on time. My idea is to have the building ready by next ‘Pravasi Divas’, if it is possible,” quipped Ravi.

The centre will also host an Indian cultural centre, auditorium, permanent exhibition space, guest rooms and business centre.