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The government will introduce amendments to the People's Representation Act to give all Indian passport holders the right to vote regardless of whether they are resident in India.This issue of allowing non-resident Indians to vote has been raised repeatedly at earlier PBDs. Constitutionally, only Indian citizens are allowed to vote.Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is aimed at promoting a better understanding between the Indian diaspora and the country's political leadershipIn addition, the Divas' theme, Rooting for the Roots, has been developed to inculcate a sense of pride about their Indian origins among the new generation of overseas Indians.The delegates include six ministers from abroad and large delegations of over 200 NRIs are coming from Malaysia and USA. The event will feature a three-day convention and trade and industry exhibition.
Several eminent overseas Indians have been invited to attend PBD 2007. Some of the notable names who have since confirmed their participation are Knowledge Commission chairman Sam Pitroda, Tie UK chairman Apurv Bagri, IBP (UK) co-chairman Karan Billimoria, Social Strategic executive director Denison Jaisurya and Malaysia's deputy minister of women, family and community development, Dato G Palanivel.The convention will focus on education, healthcare, youth development, women's empowerment, technology, media, private international law, etc. Special focus will be directed on attracting $1.5 trillion capital investment to India.