World Tamil Diaspora Day 2025: Celebrating global Tamil unity and progress

Chennai, January 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The fourth annual World Tamil Diaspora Day 2025, organized by the Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils, was held at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nandambakkam, on January 11 and 12. The event, which was themed ‘Ethisaiyum Tamizhanangey’ meaning Tamil in Every Direction, brought together over 2,500 attendees from 70 countries, including 1,500 global Tamils and 500 entrepreneurs and professionals, to celebrate Tamil heritage and chart pathways for socio-economic progress. Editor of Australia India News Dr Ram Mohan was one of the delegates at the event.
Inauguration and key highlights
The event was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Thiru. Udhayanidhi Stalin, alongside Ministers SM Nazar, TM Anbarasan, Anbil Mahesh, Ma Subramaniam, R Rajendran, MP Saminathan, and other dignitaries. In his address, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the adaptability of the Tamil diaspora, their historical contributions to education, trade, and global integration, and the state’s focus on advancements in science, technology, engineering, and medicine. He appealed to global Tamil citizens and business leaders to invest in Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure, alma maters, and economic growth, leveraging the talent of local youth.
Exhibition showcasing Tamil excellence
An exhibition featuring over 200 stalls highlighted Tamil Nadu’s advancements in technology, agriculture, publications, realty, food, and culture. Departments of the Tamil Nadu government showcased welfare initiatives for the diaspora, while stalls from global Tamil associations displayed their contributions to enhancing diaspora well-being.
Engaging sessions and expert discussions
The two-day event featured 12 thematic sessions, with over 100 speakers addressing topics such as Tamil education worldwide, fintech, e-commerce, EV technology, Tamil-Indic linguistic connections, and diaspora welfare initiatives. A special focus was given to the Naan Mudhalvan scheme, which aims to elevate Tamil youth’s skills globally.
On the second day, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin addressed attendees, underscoring the collective achievements and unity of Tamils worldwide. He announced a ₹10 crore grant to train teachers in Tamil language and folk arts for global dissemination and emphasized the state’s role in assisting Tamils during crises in Ukraine, Israel, and Bangladesh.
Milestones and collaborations
The event facilitated 43 MoUs worth ₹70 crores, including partnerships for job creation through the Naan Mudhalvan scheme and skill development initiatives with TANSAM. A tri-partite MoU established Tamil Nadu desks in 10 countries, focusing on trade, education, culture, and healthcare.
Cultural celebrations and global impact
World Tamil Diaspora Day 2025 also showcased Tamil music, dance, and theatre, celebrating the community’s rich cultural heritage. With its comprehensive approach to fostering connections and advancing Tamil culture and innovation, the event exemplified its theme, leaving an indelible impact on global Tamils and Tamil Nadu’s future.