Bengaluru: On Saturday, all roads will lead to Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) on Tumakuru Road, the inaugural day of three-day 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
State government's representative for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Minister for Medium and Small Scale Industries R.V. Deshpande on Thursday inspected ongoing works for the mega event.
Along with representatives from BBMP, BDA, NHAI, PWD and other government agencies, Mr Deshpande toured the roads on which the delegates will be brought to the venue.
He exhorted them to speed up works on beautifying the stretch from KIA to the venue, via Hebbal. The replica of traditional sculpted Indian stone pillars and elephants will be key attraction at the event.
Briefing media persons after the inspection, Mr Deshpande said, “Majority of the works relating to the event is nearing completion. VVIPs will reach the venue via helicopters from KIA and HAL. Four new helipads have be set-up at the venue."
In addition, he requested the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to make necessary arrangements so that the delegates need not wait in queues to get money. He also directed MEA to set up stalls, mobile ATMs at the venue and arrangements for the delegates to exchange their foreign currencies.
Dnyaneshwar Mulay, secretary, Ministry of External Affairs and Overseas Indian Affairs said "We have received 6,346 registration in total for the event, out of which 1,500 individuals are from overseas and 400 NRIs have registered. This is an excellent participation when compared to previous years."
Apart from sessions on issues concerning Indian diaspora, there will be cultural events where over 240 artistes across India will participate, he added.
Except for special invitees, delegates have been provided a list of 5-star, 4-star and 3-star hotels where they can directly book their accommodation.
