HIGH COMMISSION OF INDIA ABUJA, NIGERIA (CONCURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO BENIN AND THE ECOWAS)

1. The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) is the highest honour recognising the contribution and achievements of Indian diaspora. PBSA in conferred by the President of India during valedictory session of the PBD Convention held biennially. The next Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is likely to be held in January 2027.

2. PBSA is awarded to a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO), or an organization or institution established and run by a PIO/NRI who has made significant contribution, in any one of the following fields:

For Achievements Abroad

2. 1. Better understanding abroad of India;
3. 2. Support to India’s causes and concerns in a tangible way;
4. 3. Building closer links between India, the overseas Indian community and their country of residence;
5. 4. Social and humanitarian causes in India or abroad;
6. 5. Welfare of the local Indian community;
7. 6. Philanthropic and charitable work;
8. 7. Eminence in one’s field or outstanding work, which has enhanced India’s prestige in the country of residence; or
9. 8. Eminence in skills which has enhanced India’s prestige in that country (for non-professional workers).

For Achievements within India

1. 1. Philanthropic investments and charitable work in India;
2. 2. For contribution made towards India’s development.

Self Nominations:

• Those Indian diaspora members/organizations who wish to self-nominate may send their completed nomination directly by email to pbsaward[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in latest by 28 February 2026. The nomination should include a covering letter stating the achievements listed above that justify nomination; nomination form; and summary of PBSA nominee.
  The Forms can be downloaded from below:
• Nomination form
• PBSA Award Gazette Notification
• Format for Summary of PBSA Nominee