Indian community leaders and businessmen in Bahrain will take part in a major conference that brings together thousands of non-resident Indians (NRIs) from around the world.

The 13th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) will be held from January 7 to 9 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

The annual gathering coincides with the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa in 1915.

More than 1,500 delegates are expected to attend the convention, which will feature sessions on investment opportunities in India and meetings with political leaders.

A special session on employment in Gulf countries will take place on January 9.

On the same day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the annual event of the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, while President Pranab Mukherjee will deliver an address.

"The PBD convention has become an annual fixture on the calendar and has great significance as this time the newly elected government will engage with the Indian diaspora," said Indian Ambassador Dr Mohan Kumar.

"The new government will intensify and expand its engagement with NRIs during this convention.

"I would like to encourage the Indian community in Bahrain to participate in this convention and join hands in several new initiatives such as the Make in India," he said.

A delegation from the Bahrain India Society will be led by businessman Mohammed Dadabhai and other members are expected to attend the conference next month.

"We would like to see even Bahraini businessmen taking part in this annual event along with their Indian counterparts as it gives insight into different investment opportunities in India," said Dadabhai.

Various Indian states will also be present to promote themselves as business destinations and participate in an exhibition.

The convention has been held annually in India since 2003 and provides a platform for the overseas Indian community to engage with the government.

Outstanding individuals are also honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award for their role in India's growth.

Those planning to attend should register online at www.pbd-india.com. - TradeArabia News Service