The Government of India has unveiled the recipients of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA) for 2025, the highest honour bestowed upon overseas Indians. These awards recognise exceptional achievements and contributions across various fields, including community service, education, medical science, and business. The awards will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, scheduled from 8 to 10 January 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Notable Awardees:
- Prof. Ajay Rane (Australia): Honoured for his impactful community service, Prof. Rane is a distinguished urogynecologist based in Queensland. He has been instrumental in advancing women’s health, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities, and has received recognition for his contributions to medical education and research.
- Dr. Marialena Joan Fernandes (Austria): Celebrated for her contributions to education, Dr. Fernandes is a renowned pianist and academic. She has played a pivotal role in promoting Indian classical music on international platforms and has been involved in various cross-cultural educational initiatives.
- Dr. Philomena Ann Mohini Harris (Barbados): Honoured for her work in medical science, Dr. Harris has made significant strides in healthcare services in Barbados, focusing on improving medical facilities and community health programmes.
- Swami Sanyuktanand (Fiji): Recognised for his tireless community service, Swami Sanyuktanand has been a spiritual leader dedicated to social welfare activities, including education and disaster relief efforts in Fiji.
- Saraswati Vidya Niketan (Guyana): This institution has been acknowledged for its efforts in community service, providing quality education and preserving Indian cultural heritage in Guyana.
- Dr. Lekh Raj Juneja (Japan): Awarded for his contributions to science and technology, Dr. Juneja is a prominent figure in the pharmaceutical industry, known for his research and development work that bridges India and Japan.
- Dr. Prem Kumar (Kyrgyz Republic): Recognised for his work in medical science, Dr. Kumar has been pivotal in enhancing healthcare services and medical education in the Kyrgyz Republic.
- Mr. Soukthavy Chowdhury (Laos): Honoured for his entrepreneurial achievements, Mr. Chowdhury has significantly contributed to the business landscape in Laos, fostering economic ties with India.
- Baroness Usha Kumari Prashar (United Kingdom): Recognised for her influential role in politics, Baroness Prashar has been a member of the House of Lords and has actively worked towards strengthening UK-India relations.
- Mr. Ravi Kumar S. (United States): Honoured for his impact in IT and consulting, Mr. Kumar is the CEO of Cognizant, a leading multinational corporation, and has been instrumental in driving technological innovation and fostering India-US business relations.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards highlight the overseas Indian community’s dedication to excellence and their contributions to both their countries of residence and India. The upcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention will serve as a platform to celebrate these achievements and strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora.
