ABOUT PTBI

Right from its inception nearly a quarter century ago, Asianet News has maintained the warmest of relations with the Malayali diaspora of the Gulf region. We cherish the proud privilege of having brought for the first time through television medium the fragrance and warmth of their home land to the millions of Malayalis living far away from their near and dear. This has made us a part of their families and ensured us a permanent niche in their hearts.

Asianet News’s prestigious Proud To Be Indian (PTBI) is an extension of this intimate mutual relationship. PTBI which provides a rare opportunity for the children of the Non-Resident Indians (NRI) in UAE to know their own country so closely has become the most sought after program for the Indian diaspora. Families and schools eagerly look forward every year to PTBI which is entering its 8 th year now. Students enrolling for PTBI Entrance tests have grown from a few hundred in the beginning to many thousands now. If it had the participation of only Malayali students then, today PTBI attracts enthusiastic children from the entire Indian diaspora. Many schools in UAE begin special preparations to join PTBI from the beginning of the academic year.

PTBI takes the selected children on a 10-day journey to help them discover their own identity, country, its great traditions, culture, history and diversity. It envisages visits to the nation’s landmark places and institutions and meetings with luminaries like the President, Vice President. The PTBI journey which would remain unforgettable for ever for the children culminates in an opportunity to witness the magnificent Republic Day parade at New Delhi.