WHEELS Global Foundation Receives Grants From RIST Foundation To Impact Lives In Madhya Pradesh

President of WHEELS Global Foundation’s President Ratan Agarwal is pleased to announce ‘WHEELS receiving a major grant of $400,000 from RIST Foundation to address pervasive newborn malnutrition and impact 10m lives in the State of Madhya Pradesh’.

WHEELS Health Council’s Chairman Dr. Raj Shah, MD, along with the partners IIT Bombay’s Health Spoken Tutorials, CSIS, RIST Foundation and State of Madhya Pradesh’ has launched a strategic initiative to address pervasive newborn malnutrition across the entire State of Madhya Pradesh, one of the largest States in India. It is built upon the pioneering work of HST’s lead researcher Dr. Rupal Dalal and groundbreaking mass communication innovation ‘Spoken Tutorial’ by Professor Kannan Moudgalya at IIT Bombay. RIST Foundation is providing the grant to support the first phase deployment in 7 districts, which will eventually impact the entire health infrastructure of MP and >10 million babies and mothers.

What is this Grant About?

It is part of our broad strategic MOU with State of M.P. Health Department signed in June 2022 to collaborate and deploy technology-driven interventions to improve health outcomes.

We are grateful for the great partnership and support from the CSIS team to jointly drive the dialog with M.P. Health leaders (Additional Commissioner and team) and grateful to the RIST Foundation for their large grant to ensure the success of this highly strategic and high-impact initiative, which would open the doors to many other States deploying this proven solution.

Where is the intervention implemented?

Phase 1 covers seven districts of Madhya Pradesh for a duration of 12-18 months and Phase 2 will cover the remaining 46 districts and is expected to start as Phase 1 comes to a close.

Why the initiative?

After very strong results in five rural and tribal districts like Nandurbar (in Maharashtra) where malnutrition rates came down from 67% to low single-digits and weight gain went up as much as five-fold, this initiative would accelerate the intervention at State level. Grant is supporting phase-1 deployment in seven strategically chosen districts to enable capacity building for State (through Training-the-trainer model) to then scale the program to remaining 46 districts, impacting 10m babies and mothers.

The pioneering research by Dr. Rupal Dalal identified the cause of newborn malnutrition as poor breastfeeding techniques that often limit babies to getting only about 28% of the available milk supply from the mother.

This initiative validates WGF’ unique model and ability to bring strategic partners and achieve impact at scale in line with its stated mission of impacting ‘20% of Rurban population in India by 2030’.

How is the intervention planned? 

It is built upon pioneering work of HST’s lead researcher Dr Rupal Dalal and groundbreaking mass communication innovation Spoken Tutorials by Professor Kannan Moudgalya at IIT Bombay. RIST Foundation is providing the grant to support the first phase of seven district deployment, which will eventually impact the entire health infrastructure of M.P. and >10 million babies and mothers.’

The initiative is leveraging an innovative training and communication platform, called Spoken Tutorials, developed at IIT Bombay, to overcome tough scaling challenges of communicating new behaviors and practices across highly distributed, remote, and under-resourced target populations with needed speed and very low cost to match the affordability in the system.

This is a great example of public-private partnership involving several mission-aligned partners, leveraging on-the-ground vast public resources (in this case thousands of PHCs and CHCs, tens of thousands of Asha and Aanganwadi workers), integrated with power of technologies (Spoken Tutorials) and original thinking and research (by Dr. Rupal Dalal) and business creativity (train-the-trainer model) to create necessary long-lasting capacity-building in the public health system to sustain the change and impact.

The teams will be using our Health Spoken Tutorials, created at IIT Bombay in the field. Sharing a short video! Health Spoken Tutorial Promo Video (youtube.com). 

FIA Joins Indian Consulate in New York Celebrating International Women’s Day

The heavily attended event saw several accomplished women being honored. The Chairwoman of FIA IWD committee Smita Micky Patel addressed the gathering, thanking all those involved in making the event a success —  the Consulate and Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan, and Deputy CG Dr. Varun Jeph, leaders of FIA like Chairman Ankur Vaidya and President Dr. Avinash Gupta and the whole Women’s Empowerment Team.

The FIA President Dr. Avinash Gupta briefly addressed the gathering stressing values women bring to the family and society. he called the inspiration of the women as a “nutritional source” and called for standing together to build a society where every woman and girl gets the chance to achieve. He also thanked the women in FIA who :stand shoulder to shoulder” with the rest of FIA for every event. “Except, today, they did it all on their own,” Dr. Gupta said.  The sponsors of the event included Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media.

FIA Joins Indian Consulate in New York Celebrating International Women’s Day 2The celebration commenced with a welcoming Meet & Greet, followed by a digital showcase of the FIA’s history of furthering diversity and gender equality. Payal Shah, Co-chair of International Women’s Day, emceed the event.

The Consulate noted on X, formerly Twitter, that the occasion, “celebrated the achievements & indomitable spirit of women.”

Indian Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan presenting awards to women recipients at March 8, 2024, IWD celebrations hosted by FIA-NYNJCTNE. Clockwise, Megha Desai, Indu Lew, Neena Singh. PHOTO: X @IndiainNewYork.

The four women honored and recognized for their contributions included Radhikaraje Gaekwad, who was not present and had been presented the honor in her hometown in India; Mayor of Montgomery township Neena Singh, the first Indian American Sikh woman to win that position; Indu Lew, executive vice president and Chief of Staff of Robert Wood Johnson Barnabus Health; and Megha Desai, president of the Desai Foundation which has the goal of elevating health, livelihood and menstrual equity for women and children through community programs in rural India.

A portrait of awardee Radhikaraje Gaekwad broadcast on screen March 8, 2024, at the FIA event in the Indian Consulate. PHOTO: videograb Facebook @India in New YorkRadhikaraje Gaekwad was presented the honors from FIA in India. Seen with her are FIA representatives Ankur Vaidya,left and Srujal Parikh, right. PHOTO: FIA

India’s Consul General, Binaya Srikant Pradhan, in his speech, shared insights on the achievements of Indian woman and the government’s commitment to empowering them and India’s women-led development. He presented a sash with the honorees’ name, a trophy, as well as a bouquet to each woman, recognized.

The three awardees present in person, spoke to the audience about their ideas and vision, and all of them spoke about lifting the second generation of Indian American youth, and youth in India.

Mayor Singh, among other things, discussed one of the programs her administration is engaged in which encouragesFIA Joins Indian Consulate in New York Celebrating International Women’s Day 3 youth to be mentored in various departments in the Township “Representation matters,” Singh said, adding, “We are making a mark in this country.”

Indu Lew praised the other recipients of the FIA awards and thanked the organization for choosing her as one. In any industry, from entertainment to technology, she said, women bring a unique perspective, experience, and intelligence to bear on the issues. And in all cases, “Outcome far exceeds the expectation,” when a woman is leading. They are balancing so many balls, that even if by some chance, they drop one of them, it will be the one that bounces back, she said. Her motto “As we raise, we must rise,” emphasized that everyone has a responsibility to mentor and guide the next generation, and also their own colleagues. “I am proud to be an Indian American and to have this honor,” Lew said.

Megha Desai spelt out the goals of the Desai Foundation and its goal of achieving dignity for women. “What we mean by women’s empowerment is we shouldn’t have to be extraordinary in order to be empowered.” One can be ordinary and empowered, she emphasized, poor and empowered. She cited an example of a young woman who felt empowered in one of the Foundation’s projects. According to her, if the millions of women in India could be empowered, it would raise the GDP, improve healthcare, and other aspects of life.

IOC Inaugurates Karnataka Chapter to Further Bolster INC Efforts in Upcoming Lok Sabha Elections

On February 24, 2024, the Indian Overseas Congress USA confirmed the appointment of new officers for the Karnataka Chapter during their inaugural dinner ceremony held at the Five Star Banquet Hall, Long Island City, New York. This chapter will work under the leadership of Sri Rajiv Gowda, an experienced advocate who has dedicated his life to fighting for equality, fairness, and democratic principles.

Sri Harbachan Singh, Secretary General, IOC USA, opened the event with greetings and remarks, “Congratulations to Sri Rajiv Gowda, today marks a momentous occasion as we embark on this journey under your capable leadership. Your ability to assemble such outstanding team speaks volumes, and I am eager to witness the remarkable achievements that await us, especially with the Lok Sabha elections in the horizon. The upcoming Elections are particularly important, and we will communicate with each other to ensure we are in sync with the voters of India and support their yearnings for a change in the status quo. We need every voter to participate and support the Indian National Congress so democracy can be saved for everyone today and future generations.”

Vice Chairman of IOC USA, Sri George Abraham, addressed the gathering and highlighted India’s dire current political situation and the apparent threat to democracy and free and fair elections. Sri Abraham introduced the new president of the Karnataka Chapter and said, “It is my distinct pleasure to have the Karnataka Chapter officially on board to help us in the people’s fight to retake our beloved country from those who want to foster and facilitate discrimination, division, and a blatant disregard for freedom in our motherland.”

In his address via Zoom, IOC Global Chairman Sri Sam Pitroda offered a heartwarming congratulations and introduction. He said this chapter’s presence marks a particular moment in our collective mission, “I stand with unwavering pride to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and your team. Your dedication has formed a new bedrock for the INC and is poised to be a loyal advocate for democracy in India. The Karnataka Chapter will resonate as a powerful voice, upholding the fundamental principles of democracy, justice, freedom, equality, fraternity, and secularism, regardless of caste, language, or religion.” Sri Pitroda specifically commented on the crucial timing as the INC is poised to shape the future of India, particularly in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said, “the recent Supreme Court ruling on electoral bonds, farmer unrest, and encroachments on civil liberties serve as stark reminders of the challenges facing Indian democracy. Yet, united as a cohesive force, we possess the power to cause meaningful change. Through our collaboration, we will thwart any further attempts to erode the democratic fabric of India.”

In a taped video message, Dr. Arathi Krishna, charge secretary of the All-India Congress Committee IOC, offered a warm welcome and congratulated Sri Rajiv Gowda. She said, “You are bringing a unique experience to the IOC USA family, and we are confident that the newly organized chapter will soar to success under your leadership. Karnataka’s decisiveness in the state elections sent a powerful message to the nation under the leadership of CM Sri Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Sri D.K. Shivakumar. Our democracy is in crisis, and we must stand shoulder to shoulder to fight for a win in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.”

IOC USA President Sri Mohinder Singh Gilzian, who is in India on an important INC work via phone, congratulated Sri Rajiv Gowda and wished him and his team a successful inaugural event as you earnestly start working this election year.

Senior leaders Sri John Joseph- Sr. VP/IOC USA, Sri Baldev Randhav – VP/IOC USA, Malini Shah, VP/IOC USA, Sri Sharat Vemuganti- General Secretary/IOC USA, Rajeshwara Reddy – President Telangana Chapter, Ram Gadula -Chair Telangana Chapter, Amer Sing Gulshan- President Haryana Chapter, Leela Maret- President Kerala Chapter and Dr. Joshua Jaya Singh-President Tamil Nadu Chapter addressed the gathering and congratulated Sri Rajiv Gowda.

Sri Rajiv Gowda, the newly appointed president, thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve Indians everywhere and the tremendous responsibility he is ready for. In his remarks, Sri Rajiv Gowda said, “India is the largest democracy in the world and must stand as a beacon for all others who dream of living in a democratic country. As a democracy, we cannot be afraid of those who abuse the power given to them by the people. Instead, when they abuse that power, the people must take it back from them and give it to those that will strive to create a unified India, an India that can truly emerge on the global stage as a rights-respecting democracy.”

Yamuna Nagaraj and Thomas Matthews were appointed as General Secretary and Treasurer, while Manoj Mulki assumed the role as Joint Secretary. Abhishek Harish, Nivedita Chandrappa, Mohammad Sahada were appointed as members of the Executive Committee. Newly appointed Nikhil Thagdur- Joint Secretary, Indira Reddy – President, Mahila Congress, Govindaraj and Madhu Iyer – executive board members were unable to attend the event.

The event was packed with senior party officers, Kannada Association leaders and media outlets including Sakshi TV and TV Asia, progressed into lamp lighting, enchanting classical dance, Mysuru Jathi and Varaha Roopam by Mayuri Karanth, release of souvenir and vote of thanks by Thomas Matthews.

Tamil Nadu Foundation Celebrates Golden Jubilee

Tamil Nadu Foundation (TNF), established in 1974 in Baltimore, stands as the oldest and largest U.S.-based humanitarian organization dedicated solely to Tamil Nadu. Over the last 50 years, TNF has evolved as a social organization impacting the lives of less privileged children and families through Education, Women Empowerment, Rural Development and Health & Hygiene.

Over the past five decades, TNF Life Members, TNF Chapters, and TNF Convention donors have collectively supported over 700 projects, positively impacting more than 500,000 underprivileged individuals across Tamil Nadu. This includes providing aid to over 200,000 students in government schools through TNF’s flagship ABC education initiative, assisting over 60,000 victims of the 2015 floods, aiding more than 20,000 victims of Cyclone Gaja in 2018, and donating over 1 million USD during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic.

To commemorate TNF’s Golden Jubilee, a significant milestone, we are delighted to announce our celebratory event scheduled from May 24 to 26 in Rosemont, IL (Chicago), marking fifty years of our Foundation’s impactful journey.

TNF lifetime members and the Tamil diaspora are eager to celebrate their accomplishments, reflecting on our journey from a small group of visionaries to impacting over 250,000 children and families across 650 villages in Tamil Nadu. The event promises a rich blend of music, dance, and informative sessions, providing an opportunity to engage with our Youth Force, the future bearers of our mission, and to minimize administrative costs through event profits, ensuring that 100% of donor dollars directly benefit the beneficiaries in Tamil Nadu.

Event Highlights:

  • Grand Music Concert: Featuring the legendary “Isai Gnyani Illayaraja.”
  • Therukoothu: By Sangagiri Rajkumar with 260 participants (Attempting to make Guinness record).
  • “EGAI” Tamil Symphony: A spectacular musical event by Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran featuring over a hundred artists.
  • Fusion Dance Performance: Showcasing 150 local talents.
  • Tamil Isai – Featuring traditional Tamil musical instruments.
  • The Renowned YouTube – Village Cooking Channel Team.
  • Emerge 2024: An all-day Entrepreneurs Event sponsored by TNF and ATEA.
  • Youth Conference: Organized by young adults.
  • College Alumni Gathering: Expecting participation from over 25 colleges.
  • Districts Parade: Representing 38 districts from Tamil Nadu.
  • Other high-quality programs from TNF Chapters and local organizations.

Guests from various parts of North America and at least 50 other countries will converge to witness this mega event. Visit www.tnfusa.org for more details.

Kolkata Dancer Shot Dead In Missouri

The Consulate General of India in Chicago promptly responded, expressing deep condolences and ensuring support for Ghosh’s family.

An Indian classical dancer was fatally shot on the evening of Feb. 27 in the St Louis Academy neighborhood in Missouri.

Amarnath Ghosh, a Bharatnatyam and Kuchupudi dancer from Kolkata, was reportedly shot mutiple times by an unknown assailant during his evening walk in the neighborhood. He was pursuing an MFA in Dance at the Washington University in Saint Louis.

The news was initially shared by noted television actor Devoleena Bhattacharjee, who expressed deep sorrow and urged the Indian Embassy to assist in claiming the body.

“Well, the reason, accused details, everything are not revealed yet or perhaps no one left in his family to fight for it except his few friends. He was from Kolkata, an excellent dancer, was pursuing a Ph.D., was taking an evening walk, and suddenly he was shot multiple times by an unknown,” her post on X read.

“Some friends in the US are trying to claim the body but still no update about it. @IndianEmbassyUS kindly see to it if you could. At least we should know the reason for his murder,” she added, tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

The Consulate General of India in Chicago promptly responded, expressing deep condolences and ensuring support for Ghosh’s family. “Taken up the case strongly with St Louis police and the University for investigation of the reprehensible gun attack,” the consulate’s post said.

This tragic incident adds to a concerning trend of attacks against Indian nationals and people of Indian origin in the United States. The country witnessed a surge in such incidents, including the brutal killing of Haryana’s Vivek Saini in Georgia and the mysterious deaths of students Sameer Kamath, Akul Dhawan, and Neel Acharya.

The White House addressed the alarming situation, with John Kirby, coordinator for strategic communications at the National Security Council, stating, “There is no excuse for violence, certainly based on race or gender or religion or any other factor. That’s just unacceptable here in the United States.”

President Joe Biden’s administration is reportedly working tirelessly to prevent and disrupt such attacks, emphasizing the commitment to holding perpetrators accountable. In this context, the Consulate General assured that they are extending all possible help to the relatives of the deceased Amarnath Ghosh.

According to Ghosh’s website, he was pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Dance at Washington University in Saint Louis. As investigations unfold, the artistic community mourns the loss of a talented dancer, and authorities work towards unraveling the circumstances of this tragic incident.

The Indian Panorama Celebrates 18th Year Of Publication At “Gratitude Gala”

The Indian Panorama, a weekly publication from New York, celebrated its 18th anniversary by hosting a Gratitude Gala on February 25 in Hicksville Long Island, NY.

Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj  honored four eminent Indian American, and Congressman Tom Suozzi, felicitated The Indian Panorama and its contributions.

The Indian Panorama Celebrates 18th Year Of Publication At “Gratitude Gala”For the news weekly’s Founding Editor and Publisher Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, it was a double celebration as he also cut a cake for his 80th birthday. Editor-Publisher Indrajit S. Saluja thanked the patrons for their support and loyalty.

In a busy evening program, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Amb. Ruchira Kamboj presided and presented awards to the four honorees. Congressman-elect Tom Suozzi thanked Prof Saluja and the Indian community for their support. The Indian Panorama also lent its platform to launch Blitz India’s US edition.

Even as Prof Saluja expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the guests present in the chandeliered ballroom of Pearl Banquet Hall, as well as his readers and the Indian community for their loyal support all these years, he chose to honor four eminent Indian Americans at the event. All were honored with a citation scroll, a shawl, and a model of the Golden Temple.

The four honorees are well-known in the community. Dr. V.K. Raju (Life Achievement Honor) is on a mission to eliminate childhood blindness through his Eye Foundation of America.

Ranju Batra (Excellence in Promotion of Diplomacy Award) honors diplomats at the Diwali Stamp – Power of One awards after securing the Diwali Stamp from USPS.

Harry Singh Bolla (Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award)  runs a billion-dollar chain of gas stations and has started a charity to support good causes here in New York and India. He could not be present in person.

The Indian Panorama Celebrates 18th Year Of Publication At “Gratitude Gala” 1Purnima Desai (Excellence in Culture Award) is the founder of Shikshayatan Cultural Center and Sriniketan Foundation which encourage and support Indian music and arts through training and events.

They were also presented citations from Nassau County Executive  Bruce Blakeman.

Introducing the Chief Guest, eminent attorney Ravi Batra said Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj joined her post when India was already a Member of the UN Security Council and she took it to a higher trajectory.

Amb Kamboj, in her address, commended The Indian Panorama for not only being a mirror of the vibrant roots of our culture but also showcasing the journey of the Indian diaspora. She also called the US diaspora the best in the world.

The new Consul General of India in New York, Amb. Binaya S. Pradhan could not make it because of a conflict in scheduling.

Blitz India Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Deepak Dwivedi and CEO Sandeepp Saxena flew in from New Delhi for the US launch of their news weekly, which is India’s first chronicler of development news and already has a UK edition. The duo was joined by Prof Saluja and other dignitaries and mediapersons to release printed copies of the paper.

Two more media events followed. Journalists Beyond Borders (JBB), a fraternity organization founded by Prof Saluja in 2022, was formally launched. Local publishers and editors joined in to reveal its logo. Through journalism, JBB  aims to protect and promote human rights, human values, and world peace. Prof Saluja used the occasion to facilitate his friend Parveen Chopra on the first anniversary of his ALotusInTheMud.com, a wellness and spirituality web magazine.

The Indian Panorama Celebrates 18th Year Of Publication At “Gratitude Gala” 2The guests at the gala included Padma Shri Dr Sudhir Parikh, Publisher of Parikh Media Worldwide, and Dilip Chauhan who represented NYC Mayor Eric Adams. Prominent Community organizations were represented: Gobind Munjal and Dr Jagdish Gupta from AIA, Dr Avinash Gupta, Srujal Parikh, and Alok Kumar from FIA-Tristate, and Thomas Abraham from GOPIO. IOC-USA was represented by George Abraham.

Veteran Sikh community leader Master Mohinder Singh, a former president of Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society, Richmond Hill, and a founder President of Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Sikh Center was present with Gurmej Singh, a former president of Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lobana.

The media fraternity stood in solidarity with Prof. Saluja. They included: Sunil Hali (Promoter, Radio Zindagi, and Publisher, The Indian Eye), Sharanjit Singh Thind (Editor-Publisher, South Asian Insider), and Varinder Bhalla  (Publisher, Bollywood Insider).

The standing-room-only audience was hooked to the show beginning with the very first item when two lithe dancers from Battery Dance took to the floor. The last item was the adrenaline-pumping bhangra dance. In between, dancers trained by Shilpa Jhurani and Rimli Roy showed their classical moves. The artists were profusely applauded by the audience and thanked by Prof. Saluja.

The evening’s program was dexterously emceed by Piya Jyoti Kachroo, ITV anchor and producer.

The sumptuous dinner with a top-of-the-shelf bar was enjoyed by the guests.  Prof. Saluja expressed his heartfelt thanks to Pearl CEO Gary Sikka and his staff for the excellent food and hospitality.

The Indian Panorama Celebrates 18th Year Of Publication At “Gratitude Gala” 3Those at the event from the electronic media included Pardeep Gill from Global Punjab, Munish Byala, and Gurinder Hothi. Photographers included Mohammed Jaffer, Vijay Shah and Kripa Prasad.

Guests came from various parts of the US and even India. They included  Bidisha Roy, Assistant Editor of The Indian Panorama (TIP) from Tampa, Florida, Zia Khan, a celebrated photographer who looks after TIP’s Dallas edition, and Parminder Singh Aujla, TIP’s California representative, from Sacramento.

Politician Puneet Ahluwalia came from Virginia, social activist Murtaza from Pennsylvania. Harry Singh Panaser, Mrs. Manjit Kaur Panaser,  Harvenderpal Singh, Seema Jagtiani, Nutan Dabholkar, Dave Makkar, Mrs. Rashmi Makkar, Prachi and Surya Makkar, Rimli Roy, Rupinder Singh, and many more from New Jersey.

From India came Arminder Arora and his wife Tript Arora, Sparsh and Bhola.

Prof Indrajit Saluja has become synonymous with The Indian Panorama, a labor of love. He is not only an eminent editor but also a well-respected community leader who has forged links across the ethnic, ideological, and political spectrum.

For Prof Saluja, his paper is an expression and extension of his love for India as well as a platform to project the rich South Asian culture and how our successful community has made a place in the melting pot of America. A trilingual, he has also helped start newspapers in Hindi and Punjabi.

Indefatigable Prof Saluja’s spirit and intensity of work belie his years. He came to the US over 20 years ago after having a long career as a Professor of English Literature at leading colleges in India. Alongside, he founded a prominent monthly magazine titled ‘Punjab Beat’.

Prof Saluja feels proud that The Indian Panorama has remained true to its motto, EVER TRUTHFUL”. “This commitment is not just a slogan but a guiding principle, a promise to our readers, and a testament to the collective effort that sustains the publication,” he insists.

(Parveen Chopra is the founder-editor of ALotusInTheMud.com, the premier wellness and spirituality magazine started in 2022.)

8 March, 2024: The Plaque set in Arijejen, Nauru

When Father was called into the office of the Republic of Nauru Hospital, he had no idea he was being given an award that had been bestowed on him by the government of Australia. In major countries like Australia or the US, or even in relatively bigger countries like Fiji, in comparison to Nauru, it was common to give awards or titles to doctors to commemorate their hard work and improve their morale. Father knew of these things happening in practice, but he had never expected getting anything like that himself because it wasn’t customary in Nauru. People weren’t really recognised in general. They spent their time watching the sunset from the silty coastline outside of their houses, fishing, chatting for hours with their relatives or neighbours, and getting drunk when they were younger or getting high off of the Gospel when they were older.

They lived their life, let it be lived, and didn’t think much about what they were doing.

So, when Father came into the office and noticed one of the people who worked for administration unwrapping bubble wrap off of a plaque, he was curious. The plaque appeared to be made out of wood, but it was covered with a gold plating. Whether it was fake or real, Father did not know. But then he saw what was written in a black font at the top.

Community Care Excellence 2023, Dr Bruno Neneiya 

His name was Bruno Neneiya. And underneath that was a signature of a Mr Robin White and the name of a medical association based in Australia. Father felt a pang in the deepest parts of his chest, but then the emotion that followed after was resounding, filling, warm. He was being recognised, and from a foreign institution, and it had all been unprompted, unasked for. The happiness that was flooding Father was almost overwhelming. He thought he was going to cry, though he didn’t.

The hospital administrator handed him the plaque, saying with a dull smile, ‘Congrats.’ Father noticed how glassy his eyes were. It was the same lifeless look he had had last year when Father had given his presentation, arguing how the hospital could improve their services by buying more modern medical equipment and giving salary increases to workers. Father always remembered how the administrator had put on a smile, thanked Father for his hard work, then waddled away to close the door on him after saying that the administration would take the time to think about it. They never gave a response, and Father accepted that this was the most likely outcome. But it certainly felt good, seeing a plaque coming from one of the NGOs Father had been writing to to ask for advice on how to improve the medical infrastructure for his island country.

Father touched the plaque. The written imprint felt rough on his fingers, almost like he were touching pebbles. Yet the wooden frame was so smooth, as if it hadn’t been made out of real wood or the kinds of woods Father was used to touching. He turned the plaque to see his name written in gold. He couldn’t help but smile. Then he just as quickly turned off his smile when his administrator came over to his side, his three double chins melting into one mass of fat as he glared at it.

There was no fancy celebration or ceremony. This was the only hospital on the island, and they didn’t really celebrate things like this. The administrator asked his assistant to take a picture of the two of them holding the plaque and smiling so that he could send it back to the organisation who had awarded him. They would make a social media post on behalf of the hospital. Father and the administrator held hands for the photo, but the moment after the agreeable picture was taken, the administrator let go of his hand. The fake smiles went away, and the administrator’s face returned to being lifeless. He was probably wondering when he would have his next sandwich, Father thought. Father only wished he could become a little more inspired, have a little more jealousy so as to wonder how he could do better and improve his service to the hospital to win awards like this in the future.

It bothered Father, but it also did not. He let himself enjoy the smoothness of the plaque in his hands. He thought about how his wife would feel upon seeing the plaque. She would smile at him all night and give him a warm kiss on the neck and cuddle with him in bed as they beheld the plaque on the wall.

And then he thought about how his own mother, who was now staying at home with them, would react. His mother had always been proud of him for being the most educated person in their household, and for generously sending money back home to support her and his brothers. But he had never won an award, had never been recognised so publicly for his work. Now his mother had dementia and probably wouldn’t understand the importance of it.

But Father imagined a version of his mother from a few years ago, that beautifully active, bronzed woman who kept her grey hair in a tightly knit bun and her full body in a red flower dress. This was the version of his mother who’d pace up and down the kitchen waiting for a call from her grandson. This was the version of his mother who’d spend all morning flipping the fish on the grill to make sure it would not get burnt, only toasted. He imagined this version of his mother holding the plaque, crying because she was so proud of her son, holding him in a way she had never done when she was lucid enough to do such things. Father imagined himself telling this version of his mother that he would have never been able to do any of this without her support, and that he loved her.

How he wished he could have had this moment with his mother.

Father held this plaque for some time, then he put it back in its bubble wrap. The time to celebrate was over. It wouldn’t be until the evening when his shift ended and he would be able to show it to his loved ones.

Student-Curated Exhibition Celebrates South Asian American Youth Voices in Connecticut

The Indian Cultural Center (ICC) of the University of Connecticut’s Asian and Asian American Studies Institute (AAASI) recently presented its second annual student-curated exhibition at the Historical Society Museum Lobby in collaboration with the Greenwich Historical Society.

Entitled ‘My Story Our Future: South Asian American Youth Voices in Connecticut’, the exhibition showcased personal oral family histories and associated artifacts. Mihir Shah, a sophomore at Greenwich High School, shared, “My grandparents lived in India, and they made a lot of sacrifices to be sure my father would have a better life in America,” as reported by Greenwich Time.

Shah and his peers undertook an extensive oral history initiative, conducting interviews with family members and gathering significant items and mementos for display.

The exhibit premiered on February 4, attended by families, community members, and various government officials, as noted by Greenwich Sentinel. It was open to the public from February 13 to February 25.

At the opening reception, ICC founders Nisha Arora, Mudita Bhargava, and Meera Gilbert served as guest speakers. They elucidated the ICC’s mission and activities aimed at fostering cultural education and community engagement. Arora underscored the significant contributions individuals of Indian heritage were making to American society, citing leading roles in major corporations such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Starbucks.

The exhibition sought to gather and share narratives pertaining to the identity of South Asian American youth in Connecticut, aligning with the state’s mandated K-12 Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) curriculum.

During the autumn of 2023, student participants engaged in learning sessions focused on interviewing family members regarding their experiences as immigrants from South Asia to North America. These sessions were conducted under the guidance of faculty from the AAASI at UConn.

Moreover, students deliberated on their own identities as South Asian Americans, reflecting on how their family narratives of life in India and migration to the United States influenced their sense of self. These interviews, central to the ‘My Story Our Future’ initiative, will also inform the development of the K-12 AAPI curriculum, slated for introduction in 2025.

GAPI Volunteer Clinic in Atlanta Expands Healthcare Services In Collaboration With SEWA

“There are several chronic diseases that if identified at initial stages can prevent catastrophic life-threatening events among people,” says Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, current national Treasurer of the American Associations of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), past President of Georgia Associations of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPI) and the Director, GAPI Volunteer Clinic. Dr. Gangasani, who is a cardiologist by profession, understands the risks to individuals, their families, the nation, and the larger community by unidentifying and preventable illnesses such as Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, various Cancers, Heart Disease, Stroke, and Liver Disease.

With the objective of helping and supporting the local community in Atlanta, especially those who are uninsured, living in poverty, and immigrants with no way of finding quality and affordable healthcare, GAPI has decided to collaborate with SEWA to expand the GAPI Volunteer Clinic in Atlanta and make its services available to maximum number of people who need healthcare.

GAPI“GAPI Volunteer Clinic in Atlanta recently started working with SEWA volunteers to serve Hispanic and other underserved communities along with Indian and South Asian patients,” says Dr. Gangasani. “At present, the clinic is open first and third Saturdays, and we have plans to open the clinic every Saturday if volunteer physicians are available,” says Dr. Gangasani.

Dr. Gangasani while describing the origins of the Clinic said, “Following the astounding success of the SAI Health Fairs initiated by Dr. Sujatha Reddy, where thousands of poor, uninsured, and underinsured in the community received free and effective health care, GAPI’s past Presidents thought of extending the services through the GAPI Volunteer Clinic.”

GAPI Volunteer Clinic was started in 2010 at the Global Mall to help uninsured patients in the Metro Atlanta region after the GAPI Executive Committee decided in 2009 and was opened by then-congressman Tom Price. GAPI was established in 1987 and it has more than 800 members and over 300 Life members. It is well known for rendering sterling services in health care to the community.

GAPI CLINIC 2As the director of the GAPI volunteer clinic since 2010, Dr. Gangasani says, “I just wanted to take a moment to express how grateful I am to work at the GAPI clinic. It is truly a blessing to be able to provide medical care to those who may not otherwise have access to it. The gratitude that our patients express when they are seen is truly heartwarming and makes all the hard work worth it. I feel good knowing that I am making a positive impact in the lives of others. Thank you to all the dedicated staff and volunteers who make this possible.”

Dr. Gangasani says, on average over a dozen patients turn up at the clinic. All of them are uninsured or underinsured or visitors to Atlanta or seniors from India visiting their family members. Some seek urgent help during emergencies and are recommended to seek the clinic’s help. He is hopeful that he would like more people to come to the clinic. Spring is already here, so there will be many visitors and visiting relatives from India. It is vital that the community knows about GAPI Volunteers Clinic and makes good use of it.

Recalling the many lives he was able to touch during his 15-year-long association with the Clinic, Dr. Gangagasni said, “One of my best moments was identifying a tongue cancer in a clinic patient without insurance, who subsequently traveled to India and got the surgery done with a cure.”

GAPI CLINIC 1During Covid, the clinic was closed and referred for free telehealth consultations by telehealth companies like Eglobaldoctors who helped many patients during difficult times. Now that the pandemic is behind us, the organizers of the Clini want to expand the services and help more patients who are in need of healthcare.

In addition to 2-3 physicians being available at the clinic on Saturdays, the collaboration with SEWA, which has a wider network of volunteers will help in having adequate staffing to the clinic with Nursing, Managing Front Desk, and Follow-up services/referrals.

Talks are on with the Georgia Indian Nurses Association (GINA) who provide volunteer nurses to the clinic. If each of the GAPI’s more than 800 members volunteer his or her services for four hours a month, the Clinic will run smoothly.

The clinic has been approved for free EMR by clinical works. EMR (Electronic Medical Record) was installed and updated so that physicians can use it to provide better patient care. Run by GAPI volunteer physicians with the state of Georgia community health program support, Malpractice Insurance coverage to the physicians is covered by the Georgia state.

GAPI CLINIC 3Dr. Gangasani urged GAPI physicians and nurses to step up to the plate and volunteer for a few hours at the clinic. GAPI volunteer free clinic is available at the Global Mall for people with no Insurance and low income. Free Primary care consultation is available for the family. The leaders of the Clinic are working on getting discounted rates at pharmacies.

Services Available:

Minimal cost for lab work
Discounted rate for medications and Flu shots (in season).
Referral to Specialists at a discounted fee.

Address:

5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd
Suite 736
Norcross, GA. 30071
(Inside the Global Mall)

Time of Operations:

Open on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Dr Gangasani requests the members of the community to come forward to help with successfully running the clinic. If anyone with a Georgia license wants to help and be part of this noble initiative, please contact Dr. Gangasani via email at: [email protected]

5 Eminent Indian Americans To Be Honored At The Indian Panorama’s 18th-Year Gala

The Indian Panorama is celebrating its 18th year of publication with a Gratitude Gala on February 25 in a grand way. Says its Founding Editor and Publisher Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, “I want to say my heartfelt thanks to our readers, friends, supporters, and advertisers for the love and support they have blessed us with all these years.”

Prof Indrajit Saluja has become synonymous with his weekly newspaper, a labor of love. He is not only an eminent editor but also a well-respected community leader who has forged links across the ethnic, ideological and political spectrum. His friends, supporters, and who’s who of the community are set to grace the gala at the glittering Pearl Banquet Hall in Hicksville not only to felicitate The Indian Panorama but also to wish him a long life on his 80th birthday.

Dignitaries

Presiding the delightful event will be Hon. Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Ambassador to the United Nations, the first woman diplomat to hold that position.

The new Consul General of India in New York, Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan will be offered a welcome toast by the community at the event.

The newly elected Congressman, Mr Tom Suozzi, whom the Indian Panorama endorsed on the first day of his campaign, has promised ‘my loyal friend’ Prof Saluja that he will be there to personally thank Long Island’s Indian community, with whom he has forged bonds over the years.

Honorees

The four eminent people to be honored at the gala with whom The Indian Panorama has had a long association, are:

  • Dr V.K. Raju – Life Achievement award. The President and Founder of the Eye Foundation of America, he has a mission to eliminate childhood blindness from the world. He has helped start two eye hospitals in India and held free eye camps in 30 developing countries.
  • Ms Ranju Batra – Excellence in Promotion of Diplomacy Award.  She is the Chairperson of Diwali Foundation USA which holds the Diwali Stamp – Power of One awards event at the UN every year to honor diplomats. She also led the campaign to get USPS to release the Diwali stamp.
  • Mr Harry Singh Bolla – Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award. He is the Founder and CEO of Bolla Oil Corporation which runs a chain of gas stations and convenience stores in the New York area. Through his Bolla Charity Foundation, he gives back to the community here and extends help to the needy in India.

·         Mrs Purnima Desai — Excellence in Culture Award. As Founder and President of Shikshayatan Cultural Center and Sriniketan Foundation, she has been instrumental in encouraging and supporting Indian culture through music and arts training and events. She has also produced and directed over a thousand cultural programs.

US launch of Blitz India

The Indian Panorama’s gala event will also get an international sheen. The US edition of Blitz India will be jointly launched by its Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Deepak Dwivedi, CEO Sandeepp Saxena, and Prof Saluja. Blitz India, the country’s first chronicler of development news, has several editions in India and was launched in the UK last year.

At the event for the ages, Prof Saluja will also introduce ALotusInTheMud.com, launched by his friend, Parveen Chopra, exactly a year ago at the Indian Consulate. Lotus is a web magazine presenting free content on wellness and spirituality, a first by an Indian American.

The attendees at the gala will also be welcomed and entertained with both traditional Indian and contemporary touches.

Indefatigable Prof Saluja

For Prof Saluja, The Indian Panorama is an expression and extension of his love for India as well as a platform to project the rich South Asian culture and how our successful community has made a place in the melting pot of America. A trilingual, he has also helped start newspapers in Hindi and Punjabi.

Started 18 years ago in New York, The Indian Panorama also has a Dallas edition now. It reaches the Indian diaspora in the entire US and the world. Its editorial content is the right mix of community news as well as Indian and American current affairs.

Indefatigable Prof Saluja’s spirit and intensity of work belie his years. He came to the US over 20 years ago after having a long career as a Professor of English Literature at leading colleges in India. Alongside, he founded a prominent monthly magazine titled ‘Punjab Beat’.

Robert Frost’s words “The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have miles to go before I sleep”, aptly characterize Prof. Saluja’s journey in life.

(Parveen Chopra is a seasoned journalist with an entrepreneurial spirit. He founded ALotusInTheMud.com in 2022 as a social enterprise.)

Report On India Exposes Transnational Repression and Online Censorship of Minorities

On World Social Justice Day this year, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) unveiled a pioneering report titled, Virtually Vulnerable: Exposing the Human Cost of Digital Harassment. This in-depth study examines the escalating problem of online harassment and censorship, specifically targeting the Sikh diaspora and allied communities like secular Hindus, Indian Muslims, and Dalits.

The report traces the evolution of digital censorship against all non-Hindu supremacist advocates and leaders in the 2020s, offering a detailed analysis of the sophisticated methods used to silence minority voices online. It highlights the troubling practices of Big Tech, specifically social media firms in censoring content under the guise of preserving national integrity, often resulting in the shadow banning and deletion of community-based social media accounts.

Key sections of the report include:

  • Online Harassment and the BJP IT Cell: Analyzing the role of the Bharatiya Janata Party in controlling online narratives.
  • Censorship of the Sikh Diaspora: Documenting the trends in misinformation and suppression of Sikh voices on significant dates and events–by SALDEF.
  • Silencing Dissent: Examining the strategic misinformation campaign against various minority groups, including Indian Muslim and progressive Hindu communities–by the Indian-American Muslim Council (IAMC) and Hindus for Human Rights (HHR).
  • Big Tech’s Failure to Protect Caste Equity: Discussing the manipulation of technology by nationalist groups and the implications for caste equity–by Equality Labs.

In addition to detailing these critical issues, SALDEF and our co-authors of “Virtually Vulnerable” present a series of policy recommendations aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and collaboration between tech companies and democracy-oriented nonprofits. These recommendations are geared towards mitigating international censorship and supporting the rights of free speech for diasporic communities.Report On India Exposes Transnational Repression and Online Censorship of Minorities

“This report goes beyond simply highlighting the challenges faced by the Sikh diaspora; it serves as a clear call to action,” said Kavneet Singh, SALDEF Acting Executive Director. “We must urgently address the lack of transparency and accountability in the digital realm to safeguard the fundamental human and civil rights of all communities.”

“As the US government grows increasingly concerned about India’s escalating transnational repression, it is important to understand that this issue has roots in India’s ongoing abuse of online platforms against religious minorities and dissenters,” said Safa Ahmed, Associate Director of Media and Communications for IAMC. “This report offers critical recommendations to the US government on how to better protect Indian Americans from being targeted by the Modi regime online.”

“’Virtually Vulnerable’ sheds crucial light on the insidious ways digital harassment is employed against minority voices, including those in the Hindu community who stand for secular and democratic values. This report not only exposes these harmful practices but also provides vital policy recommendations. It’s essential that we come together to ensure that digital platforms are spaces of free expression and not tools of oppression.” said Sunita Viswanath, Executive Director, HFHR.

“We are currently witnessing the digitization of caste apartheid, violent disinformation campaigns, and an era of surveillance capitalism exacerbated by right-wing authoritarianism. Caste-oppressed people have a right to advocate for their communities without the fear of being attacked and targeted by foreign state actors. This report is a critical look into the correlations between Big Tech, civil rights advocacy, and repression of dissent, and anyone concerned with free and ethical digital spaces should pay attention to it,” said Thenmozhi Soundararajan, Executive Director of Equality Labs, the nation’s leading Dalit civil rights organization.

The report is available for download on the SALDEF website, as well as those of our partners, and is a must-read for policymakers, human rights activists, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, human rights, and minority representation.

For more information or to request an interview with the authors of the report, please contact Amrita Kular, Communications Director at (202) 393-2700 | [email protected]

NY Consulate Celebrates India’s 75th Republic Day

The 75th Republic Day of India was celebrated in Consulate General of India, New York with a flag hoisting ceremony on Thursday, January 26th 2024.

Consul General Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan unfurled the national flag. Over 150 members of Indian American community and friends of India joined as the national anthem were sung. Consul General then read out the Address of the President of India which she had delivered on the eve of India’s Republic Day. A short cultural program of patriotic songs was presented by Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.

A large number of members of Indian diaspora and friends of India participated in the
celebration filling the hall with patriotic fervor. New Jersey State Senator, Mr. Raj Mukherji graced the occasion with his presence and spoke about the strong US-India partnership.

Artists from Bharatiya Vidya bhavan presented Patriotic songs. The event was webcast live through the Consulate’s social media platforms.

NY Consulate Celebrates India’s 75th Republic DayIn the evening, Consul General hosted a reception which was attended by prominent members of the diaspora, elected officials, members of the diplomatic corps, friends from media and people from different walks of life. Among the esteemed guests were Congressman Michael Lawler, Mayor of Edison Township Mr. Sam Joshi, and senior diplomats and officers from NYC Mayor’s office and NY State Governor’s office.

A video messages conveying congratulations on the 75th Republic Day were played from notable figures, including New York State Governor Ms. Kathy Hochul, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, etc.

The program included a video showcasing the Consulate’s activities across the ten states in the northeast U.S. The event also saw vibrant cultural performances from young but very talented artist, Ms. Maheshwari Jagabattula and a captivating performance from Grammy award winner, Ms. Falu Shah. Guests were then treated to a delightful Indian dinner, featuring a diverse array of regional cuisines from various parts of India. The celebration embodied the spirit of unity, diversity, and shared heritage, marking a memorable Republic Day for all in attendance.

GOPIO-CT Chapter Raises Funds For CIRI, FUTURE 5 And Women’s Mentoring Network

GOPIO-CT chapter organized a fundraiser at its Holiday Party on December 15th to benefit Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI), a statewide nonprofit organization that assists refugees and immigrants. It was one of most successful Holiday Party and fundraising for charities. With a full house and overflowing, the chapter raised $5,000 and the check was presented to CIRI President and CEO Susan Schnitzer.

GOPIO-CT also presented checks to two other charities with similar amounts, Future 5 and Women’s Mentoring Network. These two later groups have been supported by GOPIO-CT since 2016.

The Holiday Party started with President Dr. Jaya Daptardar with a welcome speech. GOPIO-CT Board Member Prof. Sujatha Gadkar-Wilcox, who is a professor Quinnipiac University, was recognized for being appointed by Governor Ned Lamont as a Commissioner at Connecticut Human Rights Commission. constitution and international law.

GOPIO-CT honored its Past President Anita Bhat at the Holiday Party with Liberty Award 2023 for community leadership and for her services to GOPIO for over a dozen years. This was to be presented earlier at the India Independence Day Celebrations in August but she was not available at that time. Anita said that GOPIO-CT is doing a great job in community service.

GOPIO-CT has reelected the team for 2024 at the General Body Meeting held before the Holiday Party. The new team members are President Dr. Jaya Daptardar, Executive Vice President Mahesh Jhangiani, Vice President Prachi Narayan, Secretary Sushanth Krishnamurthy, Associate Secretary Ashvini Persaud and Treasurer Srinivas Akarapu. The General Body also elected Dr. Thomas Abraham and Totty Narang to the two open positions of Trustees. Continuing Trustees are Shelly Nichani (Chair), Joe Simon, Shailesh Naik and Prasad Chintalapudi. Up to 11 new Board Members will be appointed by the Executive Council.

A musical evening followed and was organized by GOPIO-CT President Daptardar and was compered by Board Member Sonali Gannu.
Singers at the evening were Raashmi Sathe, Anant Nimkarde, Sachin and Shilpa Kulkarni, Leena Damle, along with DJ Ryan Persaud. A sumptuous Indian dinner followed.

Photo below:
Top left: Anita Bhat (in the middle) being presented with Liberty Award 2023. From the left, Past Presidents Sangeeta Ahuja and Shelly Nichani along with in the right GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham and GOPIO-CT President Dr. Jaya Daptardar; Top right: CIRI President Susan Schnitzer accepting a check from GOPIO-CT Trustee Chair Shelly Nichani, flanked by GOPIO EC and Board Members and Trustees; Bottom left: Future 5 Executive Director Amanda Dubois-Mwake receiving a check from GOPIO-CT Treasurer Srinivas Akarapu; and Women’s Mentoring Network Executive Director Lana Gifas accepting a check from GOPIO-President Jaya Daptardar and Treasurer Srinivas Akarapu.

GOPIO International Announces Convention to be Held in April

Executives of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) and representatives of community and professional organizations, held a kick-off planning meeting to launch GOPIO 2024 Global Convention of People of Indian Origin which is scheduled to be held in April 26-28 in Royal Albert’s Palace in Fords, NJ. The planning meeting was held Jan. 28, 2024, at the same venue.

The April convention will focus on “India’s Present and the Future” and what role the diaspora Indians can play in helping to realize this desirable future. The theme of the convention is ‘Opportunities for Diaspora Indians in India’s Big Manifest Future.’ GOPIO Executive Council has appointed New Jersey businessman Prakash Shah as the Convention Convener.

GOPIO International Announces Convention to be Held in April 2At the planning meeting, Shah said, “Lauding the positive optimistic vision prevailing in India, presents opportunity to invest in India which provides the best and biggest opportunity in the World. The Bombay Stock Exchange has just crossed $4 Trillion and has overtaken Hong Kong to become third largest in the world. While India needs the 35 million Diaspora to invest, it is an incredible opportunity for the Diaspora to prosper.”

Apart from Prakash Shah, 50-member convention committee includes Dr. Asha Samant as Co-Convener, Chitranjan Belwariar as Secretary and Srinivas Akarapu as Treasurer. Committee Chairs include the following: Awards – Lal Motwani, Finance/Fundraising – Siddarth Jain, Reception – Hemant Patel, Souvenir Brochure – Jigar Shah with Dinesh Mittal and Lal Motwani as advisor, Volunteers – Bharat Rana, Publicity/PR – Rohit Vyas with Vijay Shah as Media Representative/Adviser, Registration – Dhananjay Desai, Banquet – Dr Rajeev Mehta, Additional Trips and Events – Shatrughan Dawani. Conference Sessions are chaired by Vasu Pawar for Youth, Dr. Thomas Abraham for Diaspora Indians in Technologies and AI, Dr. Asha Samant for Medical and Health and Prakash Shah for Networking Business through GOPIO Chamber of Commerce.

GOPIO President Lal Motwani, who had earlier served as the Convener of GOPIO convention in New York in 2016, said, “We are doing this major event in the USA after 8 years, this time in New Jersey. This is a big opportunity for our vibrant community in the Tr- State Area and in the USA to participate and help with this very Important event for the 35 million strong Indian Diaspora.”

GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham spoke about the history of GOPIO and its accomplishments since the formation of GOPIO in 1989, implementation of the resolutions passed by the First GOPIO Convention which included issues of Dual Nationality and Voting Rights for NRIs, demands already met by New Delhi.

GOPIO Vice President Ram Gadhavi who served as the Co-Convener of the First Global Convention in 1989, urged younger GOPIO members to not only become actively engaged, but to consider leading the organization into the future.

The GOPIO Convention will also be a fun event, with some side trips (including optional trips to New York City, Atlantic City and Washington DC).

Five conference sessions are planned at the convention, Diaspora Youth and Young Achievers and the role they can play in India’s Future and how GOPIO can facilitate their participation; Diaspora Women and their Growing Contributions in Various Sectors; Technologies and AI and other Innovations: Diaspora Indians Leading Research and Innovations; GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Worldwide Networking of the Diaspora Businesses; and Medical and Health Issues and how Diaspora Indians can Participate in India’s Frontline Role in Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines and Medical Tourism and in Propagating YOGA and its Benefits.

The nearest airport is Newark, New Jersey, so GOPIO is making arrangements for pick-up.  Those arriving at John F. Kennedy Airport or LaGuardia Airport, could take a shuttle to Newark Airport to be picked up.

As part of the convention program, GOPIO is arranging a trip to the Capitol Hill in Washington DC on Monday April 29th to lobby Congressional Representatives on House Resolution 6542 “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants, to increase the per-country numerical limitation for family sponsored immigrants, and for other purposes.”

GOPIO advised overseas delegates attending the convention to register first before invitation letter for visa is sent out. Those who want to apply for a US visa may write to Prakash Shah at [email protected] or contact him at +1 908-267-5021 or contact Lal Motwani at + 516-581-3332.

FIA Chicago Hosts Largest Republic Day Celebrations In USA

The Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago (FIA), elevated the celebration of India’s Republic Day to new heights on January 28th, at the prestigious Matrix Club in Chicago. This momentous occasion, dedicated to honoring the adoption of the Constitution of India, transcended expectations through a symphony of grand celebrations, patriotic fervor, and a vibrant tapestry showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the nation. The 2024 Republic Day festivities orchestrated by FIA were a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to excellence, featuring a diverse array of events, impactful community service initiatives, and a spectacular grand show that unequivocally underscored India’s profound unity in diversity.

FIA Chicago Hosts Largest Republic Day Celebrations In USA 3
Picture: Asian Media USA

A noteworthy highlight of the evening was a breathtaking performance by acclaimed artists from India, led by the talented Shahid Rafi, the son of the legendary Padmashree Mohammad Rafi, revered as the Greatest Voice in Indian Cinema. The evening not only celebrated the heritage of the Indian Republic but also served as a beacon of cultural brilliance and artistic prowess.

The inaugural moments of the event unfolded in the timeless Indian tradition, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and wisdom through the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Standing as custodians of this symbolic act were luminaries of FIA: Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah, President Vinita Gulabani, President Pratibha Jairath, and esteemed past presidents, each contributing to the collective radiance. In keeping with FIA’s commitment to inclusivity, the stage beckoned all Advisory Board members, Directors, and Members, to partake in this auspicious initiation.

The grandeur of the main event was ushered in by the dynamic presence of FIA’s General Secretary, Nilabh Dubey, seizing the stage to a resounding applause that echoed through the venue. Nilabh Dubey, set the tone by introducing the evening’s main MCs by his eloquent articulation that offered a glimpse into the diverse talents that define FIA, specifically that highlighted the professional achievements of the evening’s MCs. The spotlight of the evening shifted seamlessly to the captivating presence of the main MCs, Anu Malhotra and Suchitra Kukreja, who effortlessly took command of the stage, igniting the atmosphere with great excitement.

FIA Chicago Hosts Largest Republic Day Celebrations In USA 4
Picture: Asian Media USA

Inviting Founder Chairman Sunil Shah to share his insights, Sunil Shah, in his smooth style, painted a vivid picture of FIA’s pivotal role in uniting the diaspora in and around Chicago land over the past several years, including expanding into neighboring states. Sunil Shah eloquently articulated the organization’s vision and mission, setting the stage for a night of celebration and reflection.

Past President Vinita Gulabani, gracing the stage, highlighted the remarkable achievements of 2023, emphasizing the phenomenal growth from 58 to over 160 members—a testament to a staggering 300 percent increase in funding, event sizes, and the number of events hosted. Current President Pratibha Jairath, invited to the stage by Anu Malhotra, expressed gratitude to the Executive members and outlined her ambitious plan for 2024. In a groundbreaking move, she introduced an additional event focusing on Animal Medical Welfare and Care, reiterating FIA’s commitment to diverse and impactful community engagement.

The stage then welcomed the esteemed Chief Guest for the evening, Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, who spoke passionately about the relevance of India’s Republic Day to the Indian Diaspora, conveying key messages from the President of India to the captivated audience.

In a poignant moment, FIA’s Advisory Board members, instrumental in the organization’s decade-long growth, took center stage. Syed Hussaini, Manish Gandhi, Asha Oroskar, Pinky Thakkar, Lakhvir Sahota, Dr. Anuja Gupta, Dr. Bhupinder Beri, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Nimish Jani, Shrujal Patel, Sushma Bhanot, Shital Daftari, and Jasbir Suga shared their perspectives on FIA’s contributions to the community, underscoring the collective impact made month after month.

The culmination of this segment gave way to an exhilarating and patriotic performance, as children from the Atharv Dance Academy, unleashing a foot-stomping patriotic dance that echoed the spirit of the evening.

The festivities included bestowal of awards and honors upon exceptional individuals who have left an indelible mark on the community across diverse fields. Founder Chairman Sunil Shah, President Vinita Gulabani, President Pratibha Jairath, and Consulate General Somanth Ghosh, graced the occasion to present these accolades. The luminaries acknowledged for their unwavering generosity in both time and funding, breathing vitality into numerous remarkable FIA and community initiatives, were Sudhir and Archana Agarwal, Pinky & Dinesh Thakkar, Chintan & Digna Patel, Chirag Patel, Sunny Patel, Arjun Patel, Manish & Shailja Gandhi, Suketu Amin, Kunal Sarangi (ex-MLA), Naresh Shah, Dr. Bhupinder Beri, and Jayanti Oza. The dynamic duo MCs, Anu Malhotra and Suchitra Kukreja, brought their collective expertise to the forefront, turning the award ceremony into a flawless celebration of community service and contribution.

Jaspreet Kharbanda, the CFO of Dabur USA, took us on a heartfelt journey to India, not just through geography but through the senses, creating an immersive experience. In a gesture that transcended the ordinary, he generously treated all attendees to the rich flavors of Badshah masala chai/tea and the delightful burst of aromatic richness of Pani Puri. Truly Jaspreet’s thoughtful gesture reinforced the simple act of breaking bread together.

In a commitment to fostering community development, the FIA proudly extends its support through a commendable scholarship program presented annually on India’s Republic Day. This initiative, grounded in both financial need and academic excellence, attracted an impressive pool of more than 35 applications this year. Rigorous evaluation led to the shortlisting of 17 exceptional candidates, and we are thrilled to announce that, on this occasion, 6 remarkable individuals were honored with scholarships.

The entire process was led by Vinita Gulabani and Kamlesh Kapoor from FIA. Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, Swapnil Shah, Sahaj Shah, Asha Oroskar, Lakhvir Sahota, Kamlesh Kapoor, graciously presided over the awards ceremony. Vice President of FIA and pro-MC Richa Chand, with an eloquent and inspirational delivery, announced the recipients of the scholarships, highlighting their remarkable achievements. Richa Chand infused the moment with a sense of pride and uplifting experience for the exceptional accomplishments of the scholarship winners. These scholarships, a testament to the collaborative spirit of various businesses and the visionary leadership within the FIA, symbolize our unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and empowering the aspirations of the deserving students in Chicago land.

Chandini Duvvuri, Vice President of FIA, eloquently conveyed the Vote of Thanks, embodying gratitude and appreciation on behalf of the entire organization. In her heartfelt expression of thanks, Chandini extended sincere appreciation to Founder Chairman Sunil Shah, acknowledging the enduring legacy he has crafted and commending current and past presidents for consistently elevating the standards of FIA events to unprecedented heights. She expressed deep gratitude to Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, Linda Davenport, Court Judge, and other esteemed dignitaries whose presence added prestige to the occasion. Chandini offered a profound thank you to the altruistic individuals whose generous contributions made the event and scholarships possible. Recognizing the dedication and unwavering commitment of FIA Advisory Board members and Directors, she emphasized their pivotal role in shaping the organization’s collaborative spirit and serving as a continual source of inspiration.

President Vinita Gulabani set the stage ablaze, ushering in the main cultural show with a magnetic presence that commanded attention. Her introduction of renowned artists from India and across the globe heightened anticipation, reaching a crescendo when the iconic Shaid Rafi was warmly welcomed on stage, earning a resounding standing ovation. Shahid Rafi, with grace and nostalgia, guided the audience through the corridors of memory, offering poignant insights into Mohammad Rafi’s personal life and his role as a father.

The cultural extravaganza unfolded with a cascade of melodies that transported the audience through a time capsule of Bollywood’s golden era. Classics such as “Aajkal Tere Mera Pyar Kay Charche,” “Chaahe Koi Mujhe Junglee Kahe,” “Yeh Chand Sa Roshan Chehra,” “Gulabi Aankhen,” and “Parda Hai Parda” echoed through the venue, setting the stage on fire.

During the electrifying rendition of ‘An Evening in Paris,’ Sunil Shah’s signature dance moves ignited the crowd, prompting an impromptu dance floor and stage invasion by the audience. The infectious energy made it a delightful challenge for our ace photographers—Suresh Bodiwala, Vivek Joshi, Nilabh Dubey, Ramesh Punetar, Jayanti Oza and Matt Chennoor—to capture the essence of the unbridled celebration.

The crowd, carried away by the euphoria, chanted “Once more, once more” after each super-hit performance by Neelajan Ray, Priyanka Mittra, Sammy M., Gautami Roy, Prakhar Ghosh, and Mohammad Salamat. Even the Q&A session between Rizwan and Shahid Rafi added a touch of humor, leaving the audience clamoring for more in a night that seamlessly blended patriotism, nostalgia, entertainment, and sheer joy.

FIA Chicago Hosts Largest Republic Day Celebrations In USA 2
Picture: Asian Media USA

As the resonant notes of Mohammad Rafi’s songs, sung by Shahid Rafi, patriotic melodies filled the air, a poignant scene unfolded among some of the senior citizens who had witnessed the trials and triumphs of India’s freedom struggle. The evocative strains of timeless classics like “Mera Rang De Basanti Chola,” “Karo Zindagi Ko Watan Ke Hawaale,” and “Nafrat Ki Laathi Todo” stirred deep emotions, bringing tears to the eyes of those who had personally lived through the historic era. In those heartfelt moments, the power of Rafi’s voice became a bridge, connecting the present to the indomitable spirit of the past.

Songs such as “Naujawaanon Bharat Ki Taqdeer,” “Sarfaroshi Ki Tamanna,” and “Yeh Desh Hai Veer Jawaanon Ka” acted as an emotional time machine, transporting these seniors back to a time of sacrifice, unity, and an unyielding love for their motherland. The tears that welled up in their eyes were not just a response to music; they were a poignant tribute to the enduring legacy of India’s struggle for independence. The yearning for more was felt through the audience, an audible echo of their profound connection to the mesmerizing performance, many requests were made to Founder Chairman Sunil Shah to continue the program for some more time. Yet, as the clock struck twelve midnight, signaling the culmination of a spectacular show, a collective sigh of both satisfaction and reluctance filled the air. The lingering applause and non-stop dancing, though a token of appreciation, was also a wistful plea for the FIA’s Republic Day magic to continue.

As the Consulate General of India, Sonath Ghosh, truly remarked “This FIA, Chicago event was not merely a reflection, but a vivid manifestation of our love for India and profound pride in being part of the world’s largest democracy, India.  The celebration left an indelible impression, cultivating a heightened sense of patriotism and national pride among the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) connected to their roots and heritage”. FIA Chicago’s Republic Day festivities were not just a commemoration; they were a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of India and its diaspora.

The Coming-of-Age of Indian Americans

“Despite constituting less than 1% of the U.S. population, Indian Americans are 3% of the nation’s engineers, 7% of its IT workers and 8% of its physicians and surgeons,” wrote the popular Forbes magazine in 2008. “The overrepresentation of Indians in these fields is striking–in practical terms, your doctor is nine times more likely to be an Indian American than is a random passerby on the street.”

Sixteen years later, in 2024, the Indian American community has grown even stronger; their successes encompassing almost all areas of American life – living  the American Dream.  The less than four million Indian Americans appear to be gaining prominence and have come to be recognized as a model community, and a force to reckon with in this land of opportunities that they have come to call as their adopted homeland.

In 1960, there were only 12,000 Indian immigrants living in the United States, according to the Migration Policy Institute. Today, the number of Indian Americans or Indian immigrants has climbed to more than 4 million, census data shows. Historically, Indians in the US worked in medicine, science & technology, engineering and mathematics-related jobs. Some, like the Patel community from Gujarat, took to the hotel industry and grew to dominate it. Others were entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley after the digital revolution of the 1980s.

In 1997, Ramani Ayer became the CEO of the Fortune 500 financial firm The Hartford, becoming the first in the list of Indian leaders heading American businesses. At present, 2% of the Fortune 500 companies of American origin — including Microsoft, Alphabet, Adobe, IBM, and Micron Technologies — are led by Indian American CEOs. One in every seven doctors in America is of Indian descent.

Among all these fields, if there is one area, where the influential Indian Americans have come to be recognized more than any other is the political arena, where they are seeking to win elections at the national, state and local levels, vying to occupy top jobs across the nation.

The Coming of Age of Indian Americans 3Ever since Gov. Bobby Jindal the first ever major Indian American presidential candidate who had sought to occupy the White House, there have been many others who have followed in his footsteps. Indian Americans have expressed keen interest in carving out their political space at the national table for decades, and now, the fruits of their labor are paying off, with more successes now than ever before.

Four years ago, it was then-California Sen. Kamala Harris, who made headlines and then elected as the vice president, becoming the highest-ranking person of Indian descent in the US government. The rise of Kamala Harris, daughter of an Indian mother, as the Vice President represented a coming-of-age of the Indian American community in the United States. Harris was born to civil rights activist parents a year before the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 was passed; this Act relaxed the quota regime that restricted foreigners. At that time, there was one Indian American lawmaker in the US House of Representatives — the Punjab-born Dalip Singh Saund, also from California.

It’s still a relatively small number, compared with the country’s total population of more than 333 million. But Devesh Kapur, co-author of “The Other One Percent: Indians in America,” said he was not surprised to see three Indian Americans in the political spotlight in the 2024 race. “Indian Americans have been selected to be the outliers — they have been selected for success,” Kapur wrote in his book with Sanjoy Chakravorty and Nirvikar Singh.

The 2024 election season in the United States (US) kicked off and now with less than 10 months to go until Election Day and a week before the next Republican primary, one group that has emerged on the national political stage in a way they never have before in U.S. history: Indian Americans.

The current election cycle is shaping up to be historic for the Indian American community at every level, from local to the presidential. After months of campaigning, only a handful of GOP hopefuls were qualified for the last Republican Party Presdetial Debate; two of them were former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur and commentator whose White House bid has skyrocketed his profile.

While insurgent candidate Vivek Ramaswamy bowed out after finishing fourth in the Iowa Caucus, former South Carolina governor, Nikki Haley, emerged with a strong showing and is now poised to give former President Donald Trump a run for his money in South Carolina primary on Tuesday, February 13.

“You have to sit and wonder, we have these two folks who are showing these all-star abilities — will we end up with an Indian American on this ticket?” said Sara Sadhwani, an assistant professor of politics at Pomona College and co-author of the Indian American Election Survey.

Harris, Haley, and Ramaswamy have many notable political differences. In a way, each is competing against the other in the 2024 election. But together, they represent a remarkable moment in American politics, experts say: Indian Americans account for about 1.3% of the country’s population, according to census data — and three Indian American politicians have risen close to the top of both major parties. “Mathematically, you would not have expected this,” said University of California, Riverside, public policy professor Karthick Ramakrishnan.

Haley had made history as the first female governor of South Carolina and the first Indian American to be appointed to a cabinet-level position, serving as the US ambassador to the United Nations in 2016. I am the proud daughter of Indian immigrants who reminded my brothers, my sister and me every single day how blessed we were to live in this country,” said Haley, as she announced her presidential campaign last February.

In addition to the leading Presidential aspirants, there are five Indian American members in the current US Congress —Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Ami Bera (D-CA), Ro Khanna (D-CA), and Shri Thanedar (D-MI) who are seeking re-elections this year. Each of them is expected to be reelected in 2024 due to the advantages of incumbency and their substantial campaign funding.

According to Indian American Impact, an organization dedicated to strengthening the political influence of the community, there are already more than 200 Indian Americans who are elected to positions ranging from school boards and city councils to state assemblies and senates across the country.

However, what is promising as the nation goes into another round of elections is the prospect of several candidates from a wide range of congressional districts across the country from New York to California, and from Illinois to Alabama, are aiming to join the ranks of the “Samosa Caucus.”

Kevin Thomas, a New York state senator vying to win the fourth congressional district, is a prominent Democratic contender to become the sixth Indian American member of the 119th Congress. The district, currently represented by first-term GOP Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, has historically leaned towards the Democratic party, consistently supporting their presidential nominees in the past eight elections. This favorable trend significantly boosts Thomas’ prospects of winning the primary and securing a seat in Congress.

Ohio state senator Niraj Antani is seeking the GOP nomination from the state’s second congressional district. The 32-year-old, who has been in the state legislature since 2014, is expected to get elected to Congress if he wins the Republican primary, as the district is heavily Republican. “In Congress, I will have a steel-spine in standing for life, our 2nd Amendment rights, and for pro-growth economic policies. As a fiercely pro-Trump Republican, I will work hard every day for our community in Congress to ensure every Ohioan has an opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Arizona State Rep. Amish Shah, the first Indian American elected to the Arizona legislature, is seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination for Arizona’s first congressional district. Shah, an emergency physician, has raised more than $1 million for his campaign and will have a fair shot in November if he wins the primary in this seat, currently represented by Republican David Schweikert and leans slightly Republican.

Ashwani Jain, a former Gubernatorial candidate of Maryland, is running for Congress from Maryland’s 6th District. He says, “I am running for Congress in the district I live in and call home – not just to be Maryland’s first Millennial, first Asian-American and first Indian-American ever elected – but because I have specific policy solutions that will open the doors of opportunity for our community.” Jain, a cancer survivor, is focused on issues including immigrant rights, climate change, labor rights and raising teachers’ pay, reproductive justice, and gun violence.

Hoboken Mayor in the state of New Jersey, Ravi Bhalla is running for Congress from the 8th District. At Congress, Bhalla says, he “will be an advocate for New Jersey’s working families as he fights to make healthcare a right for everyone, tackle climate change, protect a woman’s right to choose, and build an economy that works for all New Jerseyans.”

Suhas Subramanyam and Krystle Kaul: Two Indian Americans are vying for the Democratic Party nomination in Virginia’s 10th congressional district. Krystle Kaul Kaul, much like Subramanyam, is focusing on issues such as national security, women’s rights, economy & jobs, healthcare, education, and energy & the environment. Subramanyam, a Virginia state senator has been serving in the state legislature for the past four years. Kaul, a veteran of the defence and intelligence community, is running on her national security experience. If either of them wins the primary, they would be formidable candidates to represent this Democratic-leaning district.

Susheela Jayapal, a candidate for Oregon’s third congressional district, and Rishi Kumar, who is running for California’s 16th congressional district are other Indian Americans, who are “strong candidates who have run for office before and have name recognition.” Jayapal had served as the commissioner of Oregon’s most populous county, Multnomah County. In 2020, Kumar secured nearly 37% of the votes against the incumbent and fellow Democrat Anna Eshoo, who is now retiring, boosting his chances of victory in 2024.

Vimal Patel from Alabama’s 2nd district abd Nikhil Bhatia from Illinois’ 7th District are others who are in the fray to enter the Congress this Fall. Another Republican seeking to win on a Republican ticket is Dr. Prashanth Reddy from Kansas’ 3rd district is a physician, who is focused on defending the nation and standing up for parents and students in addition to securing the border, supporting law enforcement, standing up to China, and protecting taxpayers.

In addition, dozens of highly qualified and experienced Indian American candidates are also vying for statewide offices in this election cycle. Among those who have announced their candidacies for statewide offices, include: Minita Sanghvi, a Democrat currently serving as the Saratoga Springs finance commissioner, vying for the 44th state senate district in New York; Tara Sreekrishnan, a member of the Santa Clara County Board of Education, running for the California state assembly from district 26; Ashwin Ramaswami seeking election to the Georgia state senate from senate district 48; and Seema Singh, a member of the Knoxville City Council, running for district 90 of the Tennessee house of representatives.

Irrespective of political differences, the Indian American community is happy about the sharp increase in their political participation, especially over the last three election cycles, and is proud of the rise of another of their own. As Jon Huntsman, former Governor of Utah and United States Ambassador to China, had said: “In the last half-century, Americans of Indian descent epitomize how new waves of immigrants have been renewing our communities and our economy. ”

Shekar Narasimhan, founder and chairman of the AAPI (Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders) Victory Fund, sums it all, saying that while he is happy to see more Asian-Americans gain prominence in politics,  “A beautiful thing is happening: Indian-Americans are coming to the forefront. If our children see Americans with a name like Ramaswamy run, and a Khanna or Krishnamoorthi can win, that’s a good thing.”

Indian American Community Rallies Behind Tom Suozzi’s Return to Politics, Advocating for Common-Sense Solutions

The recent gathering of Indian Americans at the Santoor Restaurant in Floral Park, Queens, New York, radiated enthusiasm and energy, signaling their excitement over Tom Suozzi’s return to the political arena. According to Mr. Koshy Thomas, a key organizer of the event, “The Indian Community has always admired Mr. Suozzi for standing up for issues that our community has cared for, and this gathering strongly reflects those feelings.” The attendees, hailing from diverse backgrounds rooted in South Asia, came together to show their support.

In his speech, Mr. Suozzi expressed gratitude to the Indian community for their backing and emphasized the significance of voting, particularly in the context of the special election. He pledged to continue his efforts in uniting people to address various challenges, including the border crisis.

Recognized as a moderate politician, Mr. Suozzi is deeply attuned to the concerns of the average citizen, such as rising crime, inflation, the quality of education, and job creation. Despite these pressing issues, the political discourse often veers towards extremes, sidelining the priorities of the majority. Mr. Suozzi advocates for a return to pragmatic policies that benefit the broader population, echoing the sentiments of many voters who feel sidelined in the current political landscape.

Raju Abraham, another event organizer, commended Mr. Suozzi’s commitment to principled leadership, stating, “Tom is a strong advocate for consensus-building and is capable of bringing together diverse factions for necessary compromises, ending the gridlock in Washington and propelling the nation forward.”

George Abraham, a fervent supporter of Mr. Suozzi, urged the community to exercise their right to vote and send a clear message to Washington. He emphasized the need for policies that enhance people’s lives rather than disrupt them, whether addressing rising crime rates or combating inflation. Mr. Suozzi’s emphasis on common-sense solutions resonates with voters who believe in upholding the American dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. According to George, those who seek to undermine this dream must be held accountable.

Eminent Indian Physician Leaders in USA organize a FAREWELL for MR. AMBASSADOR!

Hon. Ambassador Taranjit S. Sandhu is retiring at the end of the month as an Ambassador to USA after 4 years. He has had an illustrious career having served as Ambassador to Sri Lanka and DCM as well as other    Prestigious positions in USA

Eminenet physician leaders joined  on Zoom on Jan 17th Wednesday

Organised by

Dr Sudhir Sekhsaria, Dr Raj Bhayani

Dr Manbir Takhar

Dr Hemant Dhingra

Dr Narendra Kumar

About 30 physician leaders from USA joined the meeting

Meeting was initiated by Dr Sudhir Sekhseria with warm welcome and introduction of all participants and greetings to hnorable ambassador.

Dr Raj Bhayani expressed gratitude to Ambassador for his amazing leadership in making Indo-US leadership stronger and applauded his role in making Prime Minister Modi ji historic visit to white house.a grand success.

Dr Narednra Kumar emphasized the role of Ambassador in uniting all different factions of Indian communities in USA.

image0 (3)Dr Hemant Dhingra said in his remarks how the economic ties between two countries have reached a new high under leadership of Ambassador

Dr Manbir Thakkar elaborated how Indian community had warm reception at India House in Washington DC and bond between India House and community has been strongest ever during the last four years..

Dr Vinod Shah appreciated the services of Ambassador to Indian Physicians in USA.

Dr Harbhajan Ajrawat who knows Ambassador for a long time gave a historical perspective of life of Ambassador

As Taranjit Singh Sandhu is finishing his current assignment as the Ambassador of India to the United States of America, I would like to take this opportunity to wish him farewell and success in any future endeavor he may choose to undertake.  It is no secret and much has been said about his illustrious career in the Indian Foreign Service. This was his second appointment as Ambassador, his first being Ambassador to Sri Lanka. He was posted to the United States four times, three times with the Indian Embassy in Washington DC.  During his tenure in Washington, he was not only instrumental in bringing the Indian Diaspora in the United States together but also bringing the two great democracies together as well.  Due to his untiring efforts, and his diplomatic acumen he was able to mitigate and thwart quite a few obstacles that threatened the relationship of the two countries. At present India continues to enjoy a very good relationship with the United States. That he was able to make this meaningful contribution is no small task and is easy to understand once one is familiar with his rich family legacy and heritage.

Taranjit Singh Sandhu belongs to a prominent Sikh family with deep roots in Punjab, India. He is the grandson of Sardar Teja Singh Samundri.  Sardar Teja Singh Samundri was a prominent leader and visionary who played a key role in the Gurdwara Reform Movement (GRM) which returned the Sikh religious institutions to their democratic roots and brought  the sikh community into the freedom struggle and thereby altered the perception of Sikhs in Colonial India. In honor of his work and contribution to the sikh community, he is the only non-guru in whose honor a building inside the sacred Golden Temple complex has been named The Teja Singh Samundri Hall. Besides his role in the GRM movement, Sardar Teja Singh Samundri was very much involved in bringing education, knowledge and information to the common man. Even though he had limited education himself, he opened several schools to educate the masses and was instrumental in launching the newspaper Hindustan Times which was later acquired by M.M.Malaviya and later GD Birla. Much of this was through personal sacrifice and putting up his own funds. This promising young life came to a tragic end, under mysterious circumstances, at the young age of 44, while imprisoned by the British in a Lahore jail.  Nevertheless, his legacy continued through his son, Sardar Bishan Singh Samundri who was awarded a scholarship to study at Ohio State University. After acquiring his Masters degree, he returned to India and became the Principal of Khalsa College Amritsar, Punjab. He eventually became the founding Vice Chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjab. Sardar Bishan Singh was the father of Taranjit Singh Sandhu. Taranjit’s mother, Jagjit Sandhu, also having studied abroad, retired as Principal of Government College for Women in Amritsar, Punjab.

Mr Gary Sikka president of American Punjabi Association emphasized the role of Ambassador in uniting the Hindu Sikh community and his visit to New York Gurudwara.

In concluding remarks Ambassador expressed his gratitude to Indian community in USA. He applauded the strength of the Indian diaspora. It is the bond of Indian diaspora which has been very powerful in making the Indo us relationship stronger. He highlighted the role and sacrifice  of Indian physicians during covid in serving humanity. He emphasised the strength of Indian physician community in USA which has helped him to create closer ties between INdia and USA.

Dr Sudhir Sekhseria thanked Ambassador and all eminent physicians for joining the farewell for Ambassador and everyone expressed that they all are in solidarity and supportive of next endeavour of Ambassador in serving our motherland

Indian Americans Overwhelmingly Support Tom Suozzi

New York is gearing up for early voting in the New York District 3 Congressional special election scheduled for February 13, with the early voting period set from February 3 to February 11, 2024. The Indian community has thrown its support behind Tom Suozzi, a Democrat and long-time congressman from the district.

The special election for his seat has kicked off a season of intense congressional races in New York as Democrats seek to flip a handful of seats in the state and retake control of the House. Suozzi – who previously held Santos’ seat before leaving Congress to run for governor last year – has a lot going for him: name recognition, close relationships with the Democratic establishment.

Suozzi represented the congressional district – one of the nation’s wealthiest – for three terms from 2016 to 2022. In June 2016, Suozzi won a five-way Democratic primary before going on to defeat Republican state Sen. Jack Martins in the general election. Two years later, he defeated Republican nominee Dan DeBono to win reelection. In June 2020, he won a three-way Democratic primary and then went on to defeat Republican nominee Santos by more than 12 points in the general election. Last year, Suozzi gave up his seat in order to run for governor, which cost him an influential spot on the House Ways and Means Committee.

The special election was triggered by the expulsion of George Santos from Congress due to dishonesty. His opponent, Masi Melesa Philip, is the Nasa County Legislator, but chances of success for the opposition seem slim.

A strong advocate for the Indian community, Suozzi has garnered support from notable figures like State Rep. Jennifer Rajkumar, Sanjeev Jindal, Satnam Prahar, Koshi Thomas, and others who participated in a recent meeting in support of Suozzi.

Suozzi, an attorney and CPA, served as the former Nassau County Executive and Glen Cove Mayor. Over his 30 years of public service, he has championed causes such as environmental protection, gun safety, reproductive freedom, and immigration. His track record also includes advocacy for veterans, affordable health care, and fiscal responsibility.

If Suozzi emerges victorious in the special election, the Republican majority in the House will be reduced to 7 seats. Democratic leaders emphasize Suozzi’s background in securing life in Long Island and Queens in a statement.

Highlighting his extensive experience as an attorney and in executive and political roles, Suozzi pointed to his achievements as mayor, where he improved the city’s healthcare system, revitalized downtown businesses, and spearheaded a $100 million cleanup effort. As Nassau County executive, he reduced crime and led a $150 million environmental program.

While in Congress, Suozzi coined his famous mantra “no SALT, no deal” and brought together a coalition of lawmakers from New York, New Jersey, California and Illinois to demand changes to the SALT cap – which limits the amount of state taxes that taxpayers can deduct from their federal tax bill. He fought to either remove or increase the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions in high-tax states, pledging to oppose any sweeping tax measures that didn’t include changes to the SALT cap.

Suozzi’s commitment to fighting corruption is evident through initiatives like ‘Fix Albany,’ and he played a key role in passing the statewide Medicaid cap. As chairman of the New York State Property Tax Relief Commission, he worked for the people. In Congress, Suozzi fought to restore the SALT tax cut, negotiated a bipartisan infrastructure bill benefiting New York, and provided substantial aid to the state’s hospitals, small businesses, and residents during the Covid-19 pandemic as Vice Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus.

In 2016, Tom Suozzi, then a candidate for election to the US Congress, had announced that if elected, he would join the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans. Soon after his election, he kept the promise by joining the influential Caucus.

Suozzi, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee had announced, “As part of the India Caucus and as a Representative and friend of so many Indian Americans, I hope to play a special role in enhancing the relationship between our two countries. India and the United States share a special bond based on the shared values of democracy, the rule of law and belief in the intrinsic value of every human being. It is essential that during these times of globalization and accelerating technology, as well as threats from common enemies, that the United States and India strengthen our bonds of friendship and collaboration.”

On June 3rd, 2016, the Indian American Voters Forum had honored Congressman Suozzi at a special reception held after he enrolled himself in the India Caucus, in Long Island, New York.

As a congressman, Suozzi has closely aligned himself with the Indian American community. In 2021, for instance, he had sent Holi greetings to Indian-Americans, stating that the festival of colors sends renewed opportunity to celebrate peace, friendship and opportunity.

On December 19, he unveiled a 10-point plan to help restore sanity to Washington and get things done. The intention of Suozzi rolling out his plan is to demonstrate his belief that Congress needs to move beyond petty, partisan, and performative finger-pointing and focus on working across the aisle to get things done for the people he serves.

The plan  details Suozzi’s blueprint to:
1. Lower the Cost of Living, Repeal the SALT Cap, and Further Reduce Prescription Drug Prices
2. Address the Immigration Crisis by Passing the Tom Suozzi-Peter King Compromise
3. Protect the Long Island Sound, Provide Clean Drinking Water, and Address Climate Change
4. Improve Public Safety and Get Guns off the Streets
5. Stand Up to Extreme Attacks on Reproductive Freedom
6. Support Israel and Ukraine
7. Never Forget the Vet
8. Expand Affordable Health Care and Long-Term Care, and Protect Social Security and Medicare
9. Defend Democracy
10. “No Wrong Door”: Comprehensive, Wraparound Social Services for K-12 Students

Suozzi has a long record of working with Democrats and Republicans to tackle the problems that the people of Nassau and Queens face. Suozzi’s 10-Point Plan is in sharp contrast to his opponent Mazi Pilip’s refusing to answer reporter’s questions about her positions on the issues.
“Throughout my career, I have always prioritized delivering results for the people over petty partisan politics,” said Suozzi.

“The growing influence of the far right and far left has led to gridlock in Congress. My 10-point plan is a blueprint to address the real concerns people face and my intention to work with anyone of goodwill who has the same objective of actually addressing challenging problems and working together to come up with a solution.”

New Yorkers Celebrate Inauguration Of Ram Mandir With Car Rally

Being thousands of miles away from Ayodhya, where a monumental Temple in honor of Lord Ram was inaugurated this month, Indian Americans living in the United States and other countries celebrated this historic occasion, showcasing their unbridled enthusiasm and reverence to Lord Ram.

image1Braving the sub-zero temperatures, hundreds of enthusiastic Non-Resident Indians filled the streets of New York with a Car Rally on January 21st, 2024. Devotion to Lord Ram filled up the air in New York as over 150 cars drove through the busy streets starting in Hicksville, NY, while thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate and show their devotion and solidarity to Ram Mandir’s consecration in Ayodhya.

The car rally was organized by the ASA MAI Hindu Temple in New York as a way of expressing gratitude and joy for welcoming Lord Sri Ram to the newly constructed Temple that has been awaited for almost 500+ years.

Starting the car rally from Patel Brothers in Hicksville in Long Island, New York,  a hamlet within the Town of Oyster Bay in Nassau County on Long Island, in New York, with a large Indian American population, the car rally halted midway at a Gurudwara in Hicksville. Dr Raj Bhayani said, “The Hindu, Sikh, Jains and Buddhist communities have all come together to celebrate this historic moment.”\

Floats that were part of the rally had DJ which played Bhajans devoted to Lord Ram, while others played videos on large screens from the epic TV seria, Ramayana, and other floats displayed images of the Rama Mandir.

Indian Americans who were part of the rally wore the saffron scarf with Hanuman and Rama pictures in them, with the bitter cold conditions not dampen the enthusiasm and the celebratory mood.

In addition to the cars, the floats and the LED trucks with children dressed as Ramayana characters such as Rama,image0 Sita, Laxman, and Hanuman,  brought the experience and excitement to the rally. Each car was adorned with saffron-colored flags. The huge lineup of cars finally reached the beautiful AsaMai temple in Hicksville. LED Truck displayed Ramayana and float carried the banners celebrating Ram Mandir. The entire event was telecast live on AASTHA TV AND radio Zindagi.

Dr. Raj Bhayani, Mukesh Modi, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Mohan Wanchoo, Naveen Shah, Chintu Patel, Gary Sikka, and Dr Neeta Jain were among others who had organized the cart rally. The committee comprised of Sunil Hali, Gobind Bhatija, Pradeep Tandon, Dr Urmilesh Arya, Vimal Goyal, Eric Kumar, Kanak Goliya, Kishore Malik, Harahad Bhai Patel, Vibhuti Jha, Mohinder Taneja, Dr Satish Anand, Dr Inderpal Chhabra, and Ajay Patel.

Hindu American Community Holds Grand Car Rally in Greater Boston to Celebrate Ram Mandir Inauguration

Over the weekend, Greater Boston witnessed a spectacular display of unity and celebration as the Hindu American Community organized one of the largest car rallies in the region. With an impressive turnout of over 250 cars and more than 500 attendees, the rally covered a total distance of 70+ miles, making stops at five prominent temples along the route. This event, which took place in frigid temperatures of 16 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 10 Celsius), stands out as one of the longest car rallies in the United States, as affirmed by the organizers.

The participants, undeterred by the chilly weather and biting winds, embarked on the rally to mark the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. The rally commenced at 7:30 AM following a Puja ceremony at the Sri Chinmaya Maruti Mandir in Andover, Massachusetts, and continued on to include stops at the ISSO Swaminarayan Mandir in Lowell, Shri Radha Damodar Mandir in Shrewsbury, Sri Radha Krishna Mandir in Northborough, and concluded at the Sri Lakshmi Temple in Ashland.

Devotees from various other mandirs, including BAPS in Lowell, Satsang in Woburn, Dwarkamai Temple in Billerica, Sarv Dev Mandir in Oxford, and Sri Raghavendra Swami Matha, Shri Gita Mandir in Shrewsbury, joined the main rally at different stopping points, contributing to the overall enthusiasm of the participants.

During each stop, young representatives from the rally extended invitations to the temples to partake in the festivities related to the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Temples and Hindu Americans were encouraged to perform puja-archana to the temple deity, light five diyas in celebration of Diwali, engage in kirtan-bhajan, recite the Hanuman Chalisa, ring bells, and watch the online broadcast of the Pran Pratishta (consecration) at the newly constructed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya at 12:30 PM IST on January 22nd, 2024.

The youths also shared brief statements about the divine qualities of Bhagwan Ram, emphasizing virtues such as courage, sacrifice, justice, compassion, ideal behavior, and good governance (Ram Rajya). They highlighted how the exemplary life of Lord Rama has influenced the culture in numerous Southeast Asian countries. As a gesture of goodwill, the participants carried small gift packages containing Jap Malas, the Hanuman Chalisa, and a token cash offering. The temples warmly received them, extending welcomes with kirtan, tilak, and Prasad.

The participating temples reciprocated the rally participants’ warmth with open hearts and lively festivities. At ISSO, Vivek Swami, the resident, blessed the participants and spoke about the importance of incorporating the core qualities of Shree Ram into one’s life. The India Heritage Foundation in Shrewsbury presented all rally participants with a copy of the Gita and other relevant books. Additionally, at the Sri Lakshmi Temple, everyone received a Jap Mala to take home for their Japa of “Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram.”

The cars that formed the caravan were adorned with vibrant orange flags and signs, proudly displaying the message “Jai Shri Ram,” which translates to “victory to the virtues” as Lord Ram is considered a symbol of virtues. The cooperation and warm welcome from the police departments in the four towns through which the rally passed reflected the excellent reputation the Indian community holds with law enforcement authorities.

This grand rally, a celebration of unity and devotion, was made possible through the collaborative efforts of volunteers from various dharmic organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), and numerous Hindu temples.

Dr. Thomas Abraham on LinkedIn: GOPIO-CT CHAPTER RAISES FUNDS FOR CIRI, FUTURE 5 AND WOMEN’S MENTORING NETWORK

GOPIO-CT chapter organized a fundraiser at its Holiday Party on December 15th to benefit Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI), a statewide nonprofit organization that assists refugees and immigrants. It was one of most successful Holiday Party and fundraising for charities. With a full house and overflowing, the chapter raised $5,000 and the check was presented to CIRI President and CEO Susan Schnitzer. GOPIO-CT also presented checks to two other charities with similar amounts, Future 5 and Women’s Mentoring Network. These two later groups have been supported by GOPIO-CT since 2016. The Holiday Party started with President Dr. Jaya Daptardar with a welcome speech. GOPIO-CT Board Member Prof. Sujatha Gadkar-Wilcox, who is a professor Quinnipiac University, was recognized for being appointed by Governor Ned Lamont as a Commissioner at Connecticut Human Rights Commission. constitution and international law. GOPIO-CT honored its Past President Anita Bhat at the Holiday Party with Liberty Award 2023 for community leadership and for her services to GOPIO for over a dozen years. This was to be presented earlier at the India Independence Day Celebrations in August but she was not available at that time. Anita said that GOPIO-CT is doing a great job in community service. GOPIO-CT has reelected the team for 2024 at the General Body Meeting held before the Holiday Party. The new team members are President Dr. Jaya Daptardar, Executive Vice President Mahesh Jhangiani, Vice President Prachi Narayan, Secretary Sushanth Krishnamurthy, Associate Secretary Ashvini Persaud and Treasurer Srinivas Akarapu. The General Body also elected Dr. Thomas Abraham and Totty Narang to the two open positions of Trustees. Continuing Trustees are Shelly Nichani (Chair), Joe Simon, Shailesh Naik and Prasad Chintalapudi. Up to 11 new Board Members will be appointed by the Executive Council. A musical evening followed and was organized by GOPIO-CT President Daptardar and was compered by Board Member Sonali Gannu. Singers at the evening were Raashmi Sathe, Anant Nimkarde, Sachin and Shilpa Kulkarni, Leena Damle, along with DJ Ryan Persaud. A sumptuous Indian dinner followed.

Dr. Thomas Abraham on LinkedIn: GLOBAL ORGANIZATION OF PEOPLE OF INDIAN ORIGIN (GOPIO) INC.

A Tribute to the Late Prod. Ved Prakash Nanda By Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO International Prof. Nanda was a good friend. He was a patriotic Indian. I have had an opportunity to work with him closely since 1981 when I took up a job at the University of Denver where Prof. Nanda was already working at the law school. Since then, we worked together on many community campaigns. We jointly did a couple Indian-American fundraising campaigns for candidates running for elections in Colorado in the 1980s.        Other than his professional contribution as a professor of law and a leading legal expert, he stood out for his contribution to the Indian Diaspora community for the last five decades.   Other than what others spoke earlier, Prof. Nanda’s had made major contribution to the mainstream Indian community organizations. At our First Global Convention of People of Indian Origin in 1989 in New York City, Prof. Nanda was entrusted to come up with a structure for a global Indian Diaspora organization. He helped to draft the constitution and bylaws of the Global Organization of People Indian Origin (GOPIO). He had attended many of our early steering committee meetings and conventions in the USA, Europe and India.   He was also a frequent speaker at the conventions organized by the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA) held in different US cities.   After our First GOPIO Convention in 1989 in New York, he had chaired GOPIO Human Rights Council and successfully campaigned on the human rights violation of Indo-Sri Lankans and Indo-Fijians at the UN Human Rights Commission in 1991 and 1992 in Geneva.   He made substantial contribution to build Indian American community’s infrastructure through national organizations for the last five decades. His passing away is a great loss for our community.   GOPIO International and its chapters convey our heartfelt condolences to Nanda family and particularly Anjali and her family. We will miss him in our midst. May his soul rest in peace. Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful thoughts prevail at this time. In fact, we are now celebrating his life for his contribution to Indian Diaspora, India and society at large.

https://lnkd.in/e4pkY-bT

Grand Celebrations and Global Enthusiasm Surrounding Ayodhya’s Ram Temple Inauguration

As anticipation grows in India for the opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya later this month, Indians residing in the United States have displayed their enthusiasm through a grand car rally organized in Edison, New Jersey. More than 350 cars, adorned with flags depicting images of Lord Ram, participated in the event, as captured in visuals accessed by ANI.

Simultaneously, preparations for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the Ram Temple on January 22 have taken on a global scale. Giant billboards featuring Lord Ram and the majestic shrine have been erected in over 10 states in the United States, thousands of miles away from Ayodhya. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), US chapter, in collaboration with Hindus from across the country, has installed over 40 billboards, conveying the significance of the grand ceremony at the birthplace of Shri Ram Lalla.

These billboards are prominently displayed in states such as Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia. Additionally, Arizona and the State of Missouri are scheduled to join this visual celebration from January 15 onwards, according to the VHP, American chapter.

Amitabh VW Mittal, the general secretary of the Hindu Parishad of America, emphasized the joy and excitement of Hindu Americans, stating, “The resounding message conveyed by these billboards is that Hindu Americans are elated and joyously participating in this once-in-a-lifetime event. Their emotions overflow as they eagerly await the auspicious day of the consecration ceremony.”

Teja A Shah, joint general secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, America chapter, echoed this sentiment, expressing the palpable enthusiasm within the Hindu community in New Jersey. He mentioned the various events leading up to the ceremony, including a car rally, exhibition, curtain raiser, and billboards across New York and New Jersey, culminating in a grand celebration on the 21st night.

To mark the inauguration of the Ram Temple, the Hindu American community in the US has organized several car rallies, with more events planned in the lead-up to the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ in Ayodhya.

Meanwhile, President Bhojraj Ghoorbin of the Mauritius Sanatan Dharm Temples Federation shared the preparations in Mauritius. Temples across the country will organize Ramayan Chanting and celebrations on January 22, commemorating the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. Ghoorbin highlighted the festive atmosphere, revealing that all Hindu brothers and sisters in Mauritius are actively participating in the celebrations, with special events planned, resembling the fervor of Diwali.

“In Mauritius, we are celebrating two Diwalis. The first Diwali is on January 22, and the second Diwali is on October 31. We will do it the same as we all know: after 14 years of Vanwas (exile), Prabhu Shri Ram is coming to Ayodhya. So this time, not after 14 years, Prabhu Ram is coming after 500 years,” added President Ghoorbin. He also announced a cultural program a day before the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, with Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth attending as the chief guest.

On the Indian front, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the ceremonial installation of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple on January 22. Leaders and dignitaries from various fields have been invited to the grand temple opening, which will span seven days starting January 16. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has set the date for the enthronement of Ram Lalla at noon on January 22, with Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony beginning on January 16, a week prior to the main event.

Reflecting on the cultural significance of the Ramayan, the Indian envoy to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, highlighted its universal appeal and timeless lessons. Speaking at an event titled ‘Ramayana across Asia and Beyond’ at the US Capitol Hill, Sandhu stated, “The epic gives insights into the complexities of human relationships, governance and spirituality, dharma or duty, justice, sacrifice, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.”

He emphasized the global reach of the Ramayan, serving as a bridge across geographies and influencing diverse cultures in the Indo-Pacific region. Ambassador Sandhu shared his personal observations of the epic’s impact across boundaries, showcasing its adaptability in various artistic, literary, and religious traditions.

https://www.ndtv.com/indians-abroad/watch-indians-in-us-organise-car-rally-ahead-of-ram-temple-consecration-4858644

Nikki Haley Seeks to Surpass Expectations in Iowa Caucuses, Emerging as Top Contender Against Trump in Republican Primary

Nikki Haley aims to exceed expectations in the upcoming Iowa caucuses, positioning herself as a formidable challenger to former President Trump in the Republican presidential primary. Recent weeks have witnessed a surge in Haley’s poll numbers and fundraising efforts, prompting increased attention and scrutiny from Trump, indicative of concerns about her growing influence.

As of now, Trump maintains a substantial lead in Iowa, raising uncertainties about Haley’s ability to generate enough momentum to carry into the subsequent New Hampshire primary. According to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ polling average, Trump commands 51.6 percent support in Iowa, with DeSantis trailing at 18 percent and Haley closely behind at 17.1 percent.

Matthew Bartlett, a New Hampshire-based Republican strategist, emphasizes the significance of outperforming expectations in Iowa, stating, “It would always be great for someone to outperform expectations in Iowa, and right now Trump’s expectations are a resounding win.”

However, strategists anticipate that New Hampshire and Haley’s home state of South Carolina will play crucial roles in her campaign’s trajectory. In New Hampshire, Trump leads with 41.6 percent, followed by Haley at 29.7 percent, Chris Christie at 10.9 percent, and DeSantis at 7.4 percent. Bartlett suggests that if Trump fails to secure over 50 percent in New Hampshire, a strong showing by Haley could reshape the narrative of the race.

Addressing the dynamics between the two states, Haley hinted at the correction of Iowa’s results during a recent visit to New Hampshire, a statement that drew criticism. Doug Heye, a national Republican strategist, notes that Iowa often serves to “winnow the field,” emphasizing the greater importance of New Hampshire and South Carolina.

While Haley currently leads DeSantis in South Carolina polling, Trump holds a commanding lead with 53.6 percent support, leaving uncertainty about Haley’s ability to surpass him in her home state. Some South Carolina Republicans believe that the outcome in their state could be influenced by events in New Hampshire.

Alex Stroman, a South Carolina Republican strategist, suggests, “If she’s able to win in New Hampshire, I think it really sets up a true battle royal in South Carolina.”

Despite challenges, Haley’s allies maintain optimism about her multiple paths forward. Preya Samsundar, spokesperson for the pro-Haley Stand for America PAC, asserts, “I think they’re all states that we want to win. Nikki is not playing for second. She’s said that over and over again. At the end of the day Nikki has so many pathways to moving forward.”

Trump has signaled his perception of Haley as a threat, evident in recent campaign ads targeting her in New Hampshire. The ads focus on immigration issues, portraying Haley’s perceived weakness against Trump’s claimed strength. Additionally, a pro-Trump super PAC has released an ad featuring past remarks from Haley, highlighting her stance on describing immigrants crossing the border as “criminals.”

Haley is beginning to reveal her strategy for a one-on-one matchup against Trump, taking a more aggressive stance during a CNN town hall in Iowa. She emphasized the need for stability, asserting, “We can’t have a country in disarray and a world on fire and go through four more years of chaos. We won’t survive it.”

In contrast to Trump’s approach, Haley concentrates on counterpunching rather than direct attacks. Haley’s focus is on running her own race and providing truthful responses when necessary. Matthew Bartlett notes, “That is a position of strength. That is somebody that is saying, ‘I’m not going to start it, but I’m certainly not going to take it.’”

However, Republicans caution Haley against falling into Trump’s provocations, drawing parallels with past candidates like Marco Rubio, whose campaigns faltered after direct confrontations with Trump. Bartlett advises, “Remember, when you roll around in the mud with a pig, you both get dirty, but the pig likes it. Donald Trump wants that.”

Haley faces competition not only from Trump but also from DeSantis, who is actively challenging her in the race. The two will engage in a one-on-one debate in Iowa, providing insight into their dynamic. DeSantis has criticized Haley for ties to big-dollar donors and labeled her as “phony,” while Haley has countered by scrutinizing DeSantis’ positions on China.

The upcoming debate will be a pivotal moment for both candidates. Despite potential challenges, Haley has proven her debating prowess in previous encounters, gaining appreciation from voters. Bartlett observes, “It seems as if voters appreciate that.”

Hindu Temples in San Francisco Bay Area Face Vandalism, Prompts

Call for Increased Security

In the span of two weeks, three Hindu temples in the San Francisco Bay Area have fallen victim to acts of vandalism, raising concerns among Hindu advocates about the safety and security of temples across the United States. The incidents have prompted a call for heightened vigilance and security measures within the Hindu community.

On January 5, Vijay’s Sherawali Temple in Hayward, California, experienced an act of vandalism when the entrance sign was spray-painted with the phrases “Modi is a terrorist” and “Khalistan Zindabad” (Khalistan Forever). Khalistan represents the aspiration of Sikh separatists for an independent state carved out of the Indian state of Punjab. This incident follows an earlier burglary at the Shiv Durga Temple of Santa Clara on January 1, where three perpetrators were captured on camera stealing gold jewelry from the temple’s idols and donation boxes.

Sunil Khanna, president of the Santa Clara temple’s board, expressed shock at the incident, emphasizing the community’s belief that temples are invulnerable. He highlighted the emotional impact, stating, “The main thing that hurt all of us was how they misbehaved with the gods.”

The Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Newark, California, faced a different form of desecration on December 23, with a vulgarity aimed at Narendra Modi, India’s prime minister, defacing the premises. Jonathan Arguello, police captain for the city of Newark, indicated that the act appeared to be targeted, leading to a commitment to a thorough investigation.

These attacks are part of a concerning trend of anti-Hindu hate crimes, according to Ramya Ramakrishnan of the Hindu American Foundation. She noted the impact on community members, saying, “This is supposed to be a safe place where you go to pray and get peace of mind. But this holy and sacred space is now being violated.”

The recent wave of vandalism follows previous incidents, including an attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and the vandalism of a Mahatma Gandhi statue in New York. These occurrences point to a growing pattern of anti-Hindu sentiments and actions.

The incidents also coincide with charges by the U.S. Department of Justice in November, accusing an Indian government official of plotting to murder Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York. The Canadian prime minister’s office had earlier accused India of involvement in the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Pro-Khalistani vandalism has been ongoing since at least March 2023 when protesters in San Francisco entered the Indian Consulate, displaying Khalistani flags. A subsequent arson attack in July further highlighted the issue. Despite these incidents, law enforcement has emphasized the criminal nature of vandalism against diplomatic facilities without explicitly addressing Sikh separatism.

Anti-Khalistani activist Puneet Sahani highlighted the need for the Hindu and Sikh communities to address separatist sentiments, referencing a 2021 incident in Queens where Khalistani rhetoric was spray-painted. Sahani expressed concern that Hindu organizations might avoid speaking out against the Khalistan movement due to fears of being labeled anti-Sikh. He emphasized the importance of addressing extremists within the community.

Ramakrishnan pointed out that Hinduphobia is yet to be fully recognized by law enforcement, calling for increased federal-level efforts. While local authorities have responded promptly to recent crimes, she stressed the need for broader recognition and swifter action, comparing the incidents to potential reactions if they had occurred in synagogues or mosques.

The Hindu American Foundation, the largest Hindu advocacy organization in the U.S., regularly provides resources for temples to enhance security measures. These resources include a manual with information on safety assessments, education on security measures ranging from CCTV cameras to alarms, and a call for reporting all incidents to prevent Hinduphobia-related crimes from going unnoticed.

“We really want our Hindu community to be aware that this is happening in your backyard,” Ramakrishnan said. “Not to be afraid, but to face this. We need to be united as a community.”

Sunil Khanna, determined to rebuild, aims to lead a consortium for Bay Area Hindu temples, advocating for recognition of the community’s unity in the face of these attacks. He emphasized resilience, stating, “No temple should close their doors… This is a time to stand up and rebel against the negative forces.”

AAPI & WHEELS Global Announce $10,000 Award for Menstrual Health Project During Global Healthcare Summit in New Delhi

(New Delhi, India – January 3m 2024) Inspired by the physicians and engineers of Indian origin in the United States, the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) in collaboration with WHEELS Global Foundation has announced a $10,000 award towards the Project – Kanya: Sanitary Napkin Machine, during APPI’s 17th annual Global Health Summit held at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on January 3rd, 2024.

The announcement was made during a joint panel discussion held as part of the GHS on ‘Menstrual Health’ (under the banner of ‘Kanya Conference’). The Kanya Challenge Award seeks to catalyze groundbreaking advancements in menstrual hygiene for Indian women through the development and commercialization of absorbent materials made from indigenous Indian resources.

“To accelerate the journey to a fully affordable, safe, accessible, and domestically self-reliant solution, AAPI & WHEELS are jointly announcing a $10,000 Award with the objective of using the funds to accelerate affordability and access – which when achieved gets us national scale penetration, said Dr. Anjana Samadder, President of AAPI.

The Kanya Challenge Award, Transforming Menstrual Hygiene through Indigenous Innovation will be given to the entity submitting “the best plan, using the funds, to achieve material acceleration of affordability and access of an environment-friendly imports-avoiding solution, with the submissions deadline marked for March 31st, 2024.”

WHEELS and AAPI teams will have a joint panel of experts to select the winning entry for the announcement at the appropriate forum soon after. The Project – Kanya is aimed at developing a high-performance, eco-friendly absorbent material for feminine hygiene products using locally sourced Indian materials; and, commercializing the product, achieving sales and use by 100,000 consumers with at least 50% satisfaction (based on surveys by 10% of users).

The Panel Session was led by Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, Dr. Anajana Samadder, President, AAPI, Dr. Sumul Rawal, Secretary, AAPI, Anitha Thampi (of MCup), Jayadeep Mandal: Aakar Innovations & Aakar Social Ventures, Prof Virendra Kumar Vijay (of IIT-Delhi’s UBA Program) speaking on UBA supporting Saukhyam: Dr. Meenakshi Bharat, a Gynecologist and Fertility specialist who is a green campaigner, an advocate for Clean India. Prof Satish Agnihotri: Professor, Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas (CTARA), IIT Bombay with messages from Dr. Raj Shah, Dr. Vriti Khurana Founder, Kanya Project and Ratan Agarwal, President of Wheels Global Foundation.

The panel discussion focused on the five compelling solutions we are bringing to the target beneficiaries – to not only address the unmet need for 46m rural girls and women but do it with environmentally friendly (sustainable) solutions that also eliminate India’s import bill.

The panel discussion focused on the innovations by NOBA Initiative for Menstrual Health, M-Cup by Anitha Thampi (IIT-B CTARA graduate) – supported by Prof Satish Agnihotri (IIT-B) and Prof Kannan’s Spoken Tutorials solution (to make it easy to communicate value-proposition to rural residents); Anandi Pads by Jayadeep Mandal, supported by WHEELS’ Yogesh and Arjun Malhotra, Saukhyam founded by IIT-Delhi alum Praveen Bist and Anju Bist – providing Banana fiber-based solution, and, Aashraya Seth providing a low-cost dispenser (Rs. 2,500) for schools along with education curriculum and reusable cloth-based pads.

“Kanya project” was first started by a 14-year-old girl Vriti in 2013, after she had visited a village in Telangana, deeply disturbed and saddened by the lack of support for young girls like herself. She raised funds in the US, collaborating with an Indian company “Aakaar” and had the first self-sustaining “sanitary napkin manufacturing machine” installed in Burgula, Telangana, India in 2018. Today, there are multiple companies that are working towards the same goals and we at WHEELS Global Foundation would like to take the issue of “Period Poverty” forward. (https://twitter.com/WHEELSGF/status/988154191460827136)

UNICEF reports that “in countries where menstrual hygiene is taboo, girls in puberty are typically absent for 20% of the school year”. Most girls drop out at around 11 to 12 years old and miss school not simply because they fear being teased by their classmates if they show stains from their period, but also because they are not educated about their periods, and their need for safe and clean facilities is not prioritized.

WHEELS’ objective is to drive a portfolio of solutions to address the problem at a national scale in the next 3-5 years so there is a right-fit solution to each segment – meeting affordability, accessibility, sustainability, and self-reliance for the country.

Physicians of Indian Origin in the United States are reputed to be leading health care providers, holding crucial positions in various hospitals and health care facilities around the nation and the world. Known to be a leading ethnic medical organization that represents nearly 100,000 physicians and fellows of Indian Origin in the US, and being their voice and providing a forum to its members to collectively work together to meet their diverse needs, AAPI members are proud to contribute to the wellbeing of their motherland India, and their adopted land, the United States. The convention is forum to network, share knowledge and thoughts, and thus, enrich one another, and rededicate for the health and wellbeing of all the peoples of the world. For more details, please visit: www.appiusa.org and wheelsglobal.org

AAPI’s Global Healthcare Summit Begins at AIIMS in New Delhi

New Delhi (January 2, 2023): The 17th annual Global Healthcare Summit by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) began focusing on the theme, “Cutting Edge in Healthcare and Artificial Intelligence” at the pioneering All India Medical Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on January 2nd, 2023.

In her welcome address, Dr. Anjana Samadder, President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) said, “I extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you attending this prestigious 17th annual Global Healthcare Summit in New Delhi and Manipal. For the first time it is being held in two cities, in collaboration with prestigious institutions, such as AIIMS, New Delhi and MAHE in Manipal. As the president of AAPI, I’m honored to welcome a diverse gathering of experts, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and advocates dedicate dedicated to advancing global health. I want to thank was speakers and sponsors for their contributions.”

For the first time ever, AAPI has planned to have the annual Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) in two cities in India, giving delegates, who are coming from the United States to participate in GHS and gain a unique perspective and experience India from the North and the South ,

AAPI’s 17th annual Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) 2024 being held at the at the Le Meridien Hotel from January 1-3rd and at the Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, MAHE in Karnataka from January 4th to 6th, 2023. The GHS was inaugurated at the prestigious Le Meridien Hotel in New Delhi with a memorable New Year’s Day Eve celebration on December 31st, 2023.

GHS is being organied by AAPI in collaboration with AAIMS, Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, the Indian Medical Association, and the Government of the State of Karnataka and the Global Association of Indian Medical Students (GAIMS),

AAPI Collage 1The annual event of AAPI, GHS has contributed to ushering in new ways of providing healthcare to India’s 1.4 billion people, who live in the congested urban centers and in the rural/remote regions of the country. The 17th annual GHS will build on the past initiatives and add several new programs, Dr. Samadder added.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Chair of GHS 2024 said, “With the rapidly changing healthcare landscape, AAPI has rightly chosen to focus on the future of Healthcare and Artificial Intelligence during the GHS 2024, and is being organized in collaboration with AIIMs, and University of Manipal, which are in the league of the best academic centers. With the invention of Artificial Intelligence, we want to explore its impact on Medicine and Healthcare in the 21st century.

In his keynote address, Dr. Anupam Sibal, Chair of GHS – Delhi highlighted the enormous accomplishments of India and Indian Americans across many spectrums. He pointed to the advances in Medical Education in India, particularly since its independence, “In the past seven to eight decades, we’ve made considerable progress in higher education, and this is just a snapshot of the area. We have 149 institutes of national importance, more than 1000 universities and more than 50,000 colleges. fourth highest number of doctoral graduates in the world, the fourth highest research output in the world. We produce 6.5 million graduates every year 1.5 million engineers, 300,000 MBAs and 100,000 graduates.:

In his address, M. Srinivasan, Director of AIIMS said, “It is my pleasure that we are onboard with AAPI for its 17th annual Global Healthcare Summit. AIIMS New Delhi was established in 1956 to accomplish the trinity of mission, advanced medical education, cutting edge research, and quality patient care. I am certain that this conference will act as a platform for exchange of ideas and collaboration across the domains for cutting edge research and breakthrough in medical education. We look forward to meeting professionals, researchers and experts in the field of healthcare and research from across the globe.”

AAPI Collage 3Dr. Lokesh Edara, Chair of AAPI BOT said, “AAPI’s GHS is yet another way of continuing with our constant commitment towards making quality healthcare affordable and accessible to all the people of India. In addition, GHS 2024 focusses on promoting Healthcare Technology including Artificial Intelligence in the Healthcare arena.”

Several prominent physicians and academicians are participating at the GHS and are leading the keynote addresses and are chairing various academic sessions that are being organized during the summit. Latest Advances, CME, ELS, Discussions on Research Methodology, and Scientific Writing by Academic Experts are part of the summit.

The CEO Forum addressed by eminent panelists that included, Air Marshal Sadhana Nair, Saurav Kasera, Sreeprasad Guduppa, Sudharshan Jain, Shenoy Robinson, Karthikeyan, IPS, and Suresh Samuel, in their eloquent addresses spoke on Equity, Ethics, and how to adapt to the changing landscape in the healthcare arena and make a positive and lasting impact, benefitting the physicians, industries and the larger population.

Physician Burnout and mitigating mental health issues among physicians was the major theme during the evening session, moderated by Dr. Shubham Anand, Dr. Inderpal Chadda, and Dr. Chanchal Pal. Distinguished panelists included: Dr. Sreenivasan, Director of AIIMS; Dr. Suresh Kumar, Director of LNJP Hospital; Dr. Subhash Giri, Director of LHMC; Dr. Ishwar Singh, Director of Indira Gandhi Hospital; Dr. Vinay Kumar, President, RDA, AIIMS; and Dr. Rohan Krishnan, Chairman, FAIMAR.

Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Vice President of AAPI, said, “It is these learning opportunities and collaborative relationships that have now enabled AAPI and participating organizations to be part of an outstanding event attended by nearly 100 prominent and experienced physicians and surgeons of Indian origin from around the world, who are very passionate about serving their homeland, Mother India.”

Dr. Sumul Raval, Secretary of AAPI said, “Harnessing the power of Indian Doctors worldwide, the AAPI Global Healthcare Summit platform has evolved with the support of prominent global and Indian medical associations. AAPI’s mission is to make a positive and meaningful impact on the healthcare delivery system both in the US and in India.”

AAPI Collage 4“AAPI GHS offers an opportunity to meet directly with these physicians who are leaders in their fields and play an integral part in the decision-making process regarding new products and services,” Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Treasurer of AAPI said.

Healthcare in India is one of the largest sectors, in terms of revenue and employment. India is making significant improvements in its healthcare infrastructure and is building modern medical facilities throughout India. Doctors of Indian origin have made tremendous progress in the 21st century and India is now being touted as a medical tourism hub.

The Global Healthcare Summit has come a long way from the first Indo-US Healthcare Summit launched by AAPI USA in 2007. Since then, AAPI has organized 16 Indo – US/Global Healthcare Summits and developed strategic alliances with various organizations.

Highlighting the importance of the flagship annual GHS, Dr. Samadder said, “This summit serves as a powerful platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the forging of meaningful partnerships. The work we do today paves the way for a healthcare landscape that is more efficient, accessible and affordable toward all individuals. For more details, please visit: www.aapiusa.org/

Investment Banker Tarun Ghulati Enters 2024 London Mayoral Race, Promising Transformation and Fresh Vision for the Capital

Investment banker Tarun Ghulati has declared his candidacy for the 2024 London mayoral elections, expressing a commitment to bring about a fresh perspective in response to the desires of Londoners for “something different.” With two decades of residency in the city, Ghulati aims to address concerns about the incumbent mayor, whom he accuses of having “brought London to a standstill.” If successful in the election scheduled for May 2, the 63-year-old, hailing from north London, envisions a transformative agenda for the capital, placing a primary emphasis on rejuvenating the city’s transportation system.

Ghulati, in an interview with the BBC, outlined his determination to “get London moving again” by proposing the complete abolition of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez). In addition to scrapping the Ulez, he plans to eliminate the congestion charge on weekends and holidays, coupled with initiating a comprehensive review of the existing 20mph speed limit zones and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). Ghulati’s stance aligns with several other mayoral candidates, including those from the Conservative Party, Reform UK, and various independents, who have also expressed intentions to reverse the Ulez expansion if elected.

Among his priorities, Ghulati emphasizes the need to bolster law enforcement in the city, advocating for an increased police presence on the streets and the establishment of additional police stations in areas grappling with high crime rates. This focus on public safety underscores his commitment to addressing the concerns of Londoners and creating a safer urban environment.

The London mayoral race features a diverse array of candidates, with seven others vying for the position. The candidates include Rob Blackie of the Liberal Democrats, Natalie Campbell running independently, Howard Cox as an independent candidate, Zoe Garbett representing the Green Party, Susan Hall from the Conservative Party, Sadiq Khan of the Labour Party, and Andreas Michli as an independent candidate.

Originating from India, Ghulati, now a seasoned businessman, highlighted his observation that “London can be a lonely place to live.” In response to this, he envisions fostering greater community cohesion, expressing concern about the isolation of various communities and the lack of a sense of belonging among residents. Ghulati’s personal experiences and cultural background inform his commitment to a “levelling up agenda” for the capital, where he envisions improvements in living standards for those facing poverty and an increased emphasis on digital connectivity for all of London.

In an effort to distinguish himself from traditional politicians, Ghulati, in his conversation with the BBC, emphasized his status as a non-politician, positioning himself as a “catalyst for positive change.” He believes that his outsider perspective will resonate with voters seeking a departure from the political status quo. Ghulati aspires to be the embodiment of the change Londoners are craving, emphasizing that people desire someone different to lead the city.

As the 2024 London mayoral elections approach, Ghulati’s candidacy introduces a unique blend of business acumen, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to addressing key issues affecting Londoners. His proposals to overhaul the city’s transportation policies, enhance public safety, and foster community cohesion underscore a comprehensive vision for London’s future. The electorate now faces a choice among a diverse pool of candidates, each offering their own perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the dynamic and vibrant city of London.

Mass Wedding in Kabul: A Symbol of Love Amid Economic Challenges

In a heartwarming display of unity and resilience, a mass wedding ceremony recently took place in Kabul, Afghanistan, involving 50 couples. These collective celebrations have become increasingly common as low-income couples seek alternatives to the exorbitant costs associated with traditional weddings.

The brides, veiled and concealed in a separate wing, made their appearance only after the midday meal, according to reports from local media. The event, meticulously organized by a charitable organization, not only joined couples in matrimony but also provided them with essential items such as carpets and household appliances to help them embark on their married lives.

An official from the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice addressed the attendees during the understated ceremonies. While Koranic recitations filled the air, it’s important to note that dancing and music, once integral parts of joyous occasions, remain effectively banned by the Taliban rulers who returned to power in August 2021.

The newlyweds, adorned in traditional attire, were whisked away in cars adorned with green ribbons and heart-shaped red plastic roses. This poignant scene symbolized not only the union of hearts but also the hope for a shared future despite the challenges imposed by societal restrictions.

Roohullah Rezayi, an 18-year-old from the Hazara Shia Muslim minority in Ghor province, shared with AFP news agency the financial constraints that led him to opt for a mass wedding. He revealed, “A traditional wedding would have cost us at least 200,000 to 250,000 Afghanis [£2,220 to £2,770; $2,800 to $3,600], but this time it will be between 10,000 and 15,000 Afghanis.” Roohullah, who earns a modest income of 350 Afghanis per day through odd jobs, emphasized the financial relief provided by this collective celebration. “We invited 35 people from our two families; otherwise, it would have been 300 to 400,” he added.

For many grooms, like 23-year-old Samiullah Zamani, a farmer from Kabul province, the mass wedding marked the end of a prolonged wait. Expressing his excitement, Samiullah said, “I’ve been waiting for this day for three years. I can’t wait to see her.”

This mass wedding serves as a testament to the economic challenges faced by the Afghan populace, particularly the lower-income individuals who struggle to finance elaborate ceremonies. It reflects a growing trend where couples are opting for more affordable and practical alternatives to celebrate their love, even in the face of societal constraints.

The choice to organize such collective ceremonies not only alleviates the financial burden on individual couples but also underscores the resilience of the Afghan people in finding ways to celebrate love and commitment. The provision of essential items by the organizing charity further emphasizes the collaborative effort to support these couples as they embark on their marital journeys.

While the traditional elements of music and dance may be absent due to the prevailing restrictions, the couples’ joy and the communal celebration paint a picture of hope and unity. The decorated cars carrying the newlyweds through the streets serve as a visual representation of the community’s support for these unions, despite the challenges imposed by the current political climate.

As the newlyweds begin their lives together, this mass wedding stands as a poignant reminder of the strength of love and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. It signifies a departure from extravagant ceremonies, highlighting the importance of simplicity, unity, and community support in celebrating the enduring bonds of marriage.

India’s Modi hosts Christian leaders for Christmas amid rising persecution

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leader of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), hosted over 100 Christian leaders from all denominations at his official residence on Christmas morning amid criticism for the continued persecution of Christians in India.

Several Catholic leaders, including Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Mumbai and Delhi Archbishop Anil Couto, who were seated on either side of Modi during the event, were in attendance.

The archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, Kuriakose Bharanikulangara, and Bishop Thomas mar Anthonios of the Syro-Malankara Church also joined bishops of different denominations and Christian leaders from different walks of life at the gathering.

Asked to comment on the meeting with the prime minister, considering the uptick in attacks on Christians in the country, Bharanikulangara told CNA: “Everybody knows what is happening … But when the prime minister invites [us], how can we decline?”

“It is for the prime minister to show that he is really concerned about the Christians,” said Bharanikulangara, a former Vatican diplomat.

“Christmas is an occasion to remember Jesus Christ’s life’s message and values,” Modi said, addressing the gathering of Christian leaders that included academicians and Christian businessmen from across the country. The prime minister went on to hail the service of the Christians, saying: “The nation proudly acknowledges the contribution of the Christian community.”

“Our government is ensuring that the benefits of development reach everyone and no one is left untouched,” Modi said, adding that many people of the Christian faith, especially poor segments, are benefitting from his government’s welfare programs.

Among several Christians who spoke during the two-hour program was Cardinal Gracias, who thanked Modi for his “efforts” on behalf of the country, the Christian community, and the world.

“Our country could be the leading country in the world,” Gracias said, according to an ANI report.

However, several Christians said they were skeptical about the motivation behind Modi’s Christmas meeting and his failure to address the steadily worsening persecution that has taken place in nearly a decade of Modi rule.

“This [Christmas celebration] is a political gimmick and image-making by Prime Minister Modi ahead of the next elections,” A C Michael, an outspoken Catholic activist, told CNA.

“We are concerned over the silence of Prime Minister Modi, who praises Christian service publicly but does nothing to stop the increasing violence and persecution of Christians,” pointed out Michael, coordinator of the United Christian Forum (UCF), which monitors atrocities and incidents of persecution against Christians.

UCF published a report Dec. 8 recording 687 incidents of violence against Christians in 334 days of 2023 (from the start of the year to the end of November). The report further said that while only 147 incidents of violence against Christians were reported in 2014 (when the BJP regime under Modi came to power), the incidents steadily spiraled to reach 687 by November’s end.

Armed with this data, Michael along with Catholic activist John Dayal and Supreme Court lawyer Sister Mary Scaria addressed a news conference with secular activists on Dec. 28 in New Delhi on the Modi government’s “Lunch Diplomacy and Christian Persecution.”

“The prime minister is not only free but duty-bound to embrace the nation’s religious minorities and invite their leaders to functions at his house on Christmas. … But the Christmas spirit must not let us forget the condition and tribulations of our brothers and sisters who suffer because of government impunity and the brazen political elements who have no respect for the constitution of India and its guarantees of freedoms to the citizens,” the Catholic leaders lamented in their press statement.

“The persecution of the community is rampant, hate towards it from the highest quarters of nationalist religious leadership as deep as it can be,” they decried.

“The government seems keen to starve it [Christianity] out of existence by withdrawing the FCRAs [license to receive foreign donations] of a vast number of churches and its NGOs [nongovernmental organizations], and using the investigating agencies against cardinals and bishops, pastors and laypeople. In UP [Uttar Pradesh], for instance, over 100 pastors and even ordinary men and women are in jail under charges of illegal conversions when celebrating birthdays or conducting Sunday prayers,” the statement said.

Dayal, former president of All India Catholic Union, dubbed Modi’s Christmas hosting of Christian leadership as “just an eyewash to impress the Christians.”

“The prime minister has made a mockery of the pains of the Christian community by remaining silent and [was] not bothered to even visit bleeding Manipur,” Dayal told CNA Dec. 29.

“If he was concerned about peace and safety of the hounded Christians, he could have taken stern preemptive action to curb and stop the Manipur violence,” Dayal added.

Beginning in May, Manipur state in northeast India, which borders Myanmar, has witnessed a protracted violent ethnic clash between the majority Meiteis, most of them Hindus, and the minority Kuki tribals (almost all of them Christians).

St Paul's Church in Imphal capital of Manipur state after the church was set on fire in 2023 Credit Anto Akkara
St. Paul’s Church, in Imphal, capital of Manipur state, after the church was set on fire in 2023. Credit: Anto Akkara

Among the nearly 200 killed and over 60,000 displaced in Manipur, the overwhelming majority are Kukis who have been chased out from Meitei strongholds, such as the Imphal Valley, in the simmering violence.

Media and independent investigators have blamed the BJP-led state government’s condoning of the violence by Meitei groups that have also destroyed or damaged more than 600 churches.

A Bold Call to Action in the Heart of New York City

On December 19, 2023, the bustling streets of New York City witnessed an extraordinary event that turned heads and sparked critical conversations. On Fifth Avenue, a giant puppet resembling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi rode in a convertible, brandishing a banner with a provocative message: “I could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and get away with it, OK?” This audacious display, echoing a controversial statement made by former presidential candidate Donald Trump in 2016, was more than a theatrical stunt; it was a stark symbol of protest and a desperate cry for global attention.

The Collaborative Effort of Diaspora Groups

This remarkable demonstration was the brainchild of leading Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim diaspora organizations. These groups came together in a show of unity and strength to highlight a disturbing and pressing issue: the alleged strategy of the Indian government in assassinating and intimidating US citizens of Indian descent, as well as other activists living abroad. The audacity of this act in a foreign nation and its implications for international relations and human rights have raised significant alarms.

Alarming Incidents and International Concerns

A Bold Call to Action in the Heart of New York City 2The backdrop to this protest is a series of troubling events that have unfolded both in the United States and Canada. In June, reports emerged of an alleged attempt by Indian authorities to assassinate a US citizen in New York. This harrowing incident occurred simultaneously with the killing of a prominent Canadian Sikh activist. The situation escalated to such an extent that the FBI felt compelled to warn several activists in California about similar threats. These incidents are not random or isolated; they represent a clear and disturbing pattern of behavior that has caught the attention of US prosecutors and the international community.

Voices of Protest and the Demand for Action

Sunita Viswanath of Hindus for Human Rights put forth a powerful message: “The point we make is deadly serious. American lives are not chips in trade deals. It’s high time President Biden acknowledges this reality and communicates unequivocally to both American citizens and Prime Minister Modi that our lives matter and are to be protected.”

Echoing these sentiments, Safa Ahmed of the Indian American Muslim Council highlighted the urgency of the situation: “We find ourselves asking who is next and what will it take for our government to intervene? America needs to stand up not just for its citizens but also for the principles of democracy and human rights across the globe.”

The Significance of the Stunt and the Path Forward

Today’s event in NYC was not just a visual spectacle; it was a powerful and symbolic act of protest and a call for urgent action. It reminds us of the critical role of democratic nations in safeguarding the rights and lives of individuals, regardless of their nationality or location. The Biden administration, along with the global community, faces a crucial test in responding to these allegations and taking concrete steps to ensure the safety and rights of diaspora communities.

In the wake of this demonstration, we are left with pressing questions: How will the global community respond to these alleged acts of cross-border violence? What measures will be taken to protect the vulnerable and hold perpetrators accountable? The answers to these questions will shape the future of international relations, human rights, and the very essence of democratic values.

As we reflect on the events of today, let us remember that the struggle for human rights and justice knows no borders. It is a universal pursuit that demands our collective attention and action.

FIA-Chicago and Indian Consulate Hold OCI Camp

The Federation of Indian Associations of Chicago (Established in 1980) and India’s Consulate in Chicago hosted an Overseas Citizen of India/Passport Camp Chicago at Manav Seva Mandir, Bensenville, IL on Dec 10, 2023.

The camp was attended by more than 500 families of Indian descent, a press release from Asian Media USA said.

Consul General Somnath Ghosh extended all the support from his office providing more than six staff members to help answer questions and process the paperwork for OCI Cards. More than 550 individuals registered for the OCI camp, where 590 individuals took advantage of the services offered, including new applications.

According to organizers, the camp offered the following:

– OCI Card Services: The camp offered a streamlined process for various OCI services, including new applications, re-issuance, and addressing queries related to OCI cards.

FIA Chicago and Indian Consulate Hold OCI Camp 1-Indian Passport Services: Attendees had the opportunity to engage with consular officials, seeking guidance and support on various consular matters, ensuring a seamless experience for all.

– Informational Sessions: Expert-led informational sessions were conducted, covering topics such as legal rights, cultural exchange programs, and updates on the latest developments related to OCI regulations.

–Adhaar card and Pan Card: The event also featured queries and assistance filling out forms and form attestation.

-Visa applications: Participants had the chance to apply for an Indian Visa and submit the applications for the same.

The Consul General and VSF representative expressed gratitude for the FIA initiative and the community’s active participation, saying, “The OCI Camp reflects our ongoing commitment to providing essential services and support to the Indian diaspora. We are grateful for the partnership with the Federation of Indian Associations, which has contributed to the success of this event.”

“Collaborating with the [Embassy/Consulate General] for this OCI Camp has been a significant step towards strengthening our community bonds. We look forward to more such initiatives that benefit the Indian diaspora,” said Dr, Rashmi Patel, president of the Federation of Indian Associations Chicago. The FIA also thanked Manav Seva Mandir and its volunteers for allowing the use of the facility and resources to hold the camp.

Dr. Bharat Barai praised the success of the camp and said the community needed to conduct this type of camp at least twice a year. He noted the presence of the FIA’s executie committee members Nitin Patel (Ex. VP), Vijendra Doma, and Dr. Hemant Patel. Also present were FIA Trustees Bhailal Patel, Kanti S. Patel, Kanti N. Patel, Rajesh Patel, Hina Trivedi and Ajai Agnihotri.

The FIA provided 7 laptops 3 printers/scanners as well as snacks and refreshment for the event and Manish Jain and Aalap Patel provided Notary services throughout the day pro bono.

FIA Holds Health Fair, Coat and Blanket Drive in Chicago 

Chicago IL: On Dec 03, 2023, Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago (FIA) organized a Health Fair and Coat and Blanket donation drive at the Golf Maine Community Center in Niles. This event was attended by more than hundreds of folks from Chicago land. The event was supposed to end at twelve noon, yet people continued to walk-in. Excellent arrangements were made for the guests by providing them early morning breakfast, tea, and coffee as many of the people came for the testing and the blood work, fasting.

This event was based on the core values of FIA of servicing the community in which we all live. There were more than 40 volunteers from the FIA team to ensure everything went with precision. Doctors from different specialties provided their services free on a Sunday morning, and they all said ‘time well spent’. The registration desk was taken care of by special multilingual volunteers who ensured all the details were captured, including the HIPAA release forms. This made the senior citizens who did not know English very welcome. The key question that was never ever asked during the six hours was ‘Do you have insurance? as everything was free to our guests.  Apart from doctors, we had people from Medicare, Medicaid, and Home Care Solutions. Dr. Raj Dhingra, renowned Chiropractic and Acupuncture consultant, brought his entire team to support the event. During the doctor speak session, Dr Parag Doshi, a noted cardiologist, went into details about how we should take care of a diet and lifestyle to ensure we have a healthy heart for a very long time. Dr Alamdar Badar and Ashima spoke about the care of the teeth and how it impacts the overall well-being and why it is important to have preventive care.

FIA Holds Health Fair Coat and Blanket Drive in Chicago 2The highlight of the event was the use of innovative technology in detecting foot problems. Krishna Chitluri brought his entire computerized equipment, which was based on artificial intelligence to analyze and diagnose foot problems, He also provided solutions after identifying the issues in the feet. Anu Malhotra, the Vedic and Yoga Guru, conducted a session on stress relief and exercises for the seniors. We could hear from folks in the room, on how relaxed and energetic they felt, after the session. Dr. Usha Karthan conducted a session on the need for identifying psychological issues in the current population and provided an overview on the resources available to take guidance and help in resolving psychiatric problems.

Phase two of the program began by the FIA Chairman and Founder Mr. Sunil Shah informing everyone that this was the 13th event conducted by FIA, this year in the service of the community and the society. Sunil Shah also emphasized the importance of healthcare and how the idea came up when the FIA Executive Board realized that there were many underinsured or uninsured people in our community who could not see a doctor when required. This was followed by the President of FIA, Vinita Gulabani, talking about the different events organized over the year successfully, for the community, and how we have more events coming up in December of 2023. President-Elect, Miss Pratibha Jairath spoke about the upcoming event next week, which now focused more on the children and young adults, ‘Toy donations and Coat drive’. Pratibha Jairath also spoke about the close collaboration that FIA has with various government agencies, such as State reps, Mayors, City Councils of different parts, the Chicago area, and how FIA works in supporting the communities at all levels. As a part of this Health Fair, coat drives and blanket donations were included. More than 300 items were collected within six hours, which will be donated to the needy this winter and help them keep warm.

Part of Phase Three of the program was the speech by the Chief Guest of the day, Ms. Michelle Mussman, State Representative of Illinois. Congresswoman Ms. Michelle, President Vinita Gulabani, President-elect Pratibha Jairath, and Founder-Chairman, Sunil Shah, distributed awards for people who contributed to the growth of FIA under their leadership in 2023. These volunteers contributed hundreds of hours over the year to ensure the success of these events. Awards were presented to Jitendra Bulsara, Richa Chand, Jenish Bulsara, Dr Bhupinder Beri, Kamlesh Kapoor, Anu Malhotra and Harry Sidhu. Vandana Jhingan from the Press and Media was specially called out and honored for the community service and supporting each and every event of FIA and others.

A special award was given to Jayantibhai Thakkar for his contribution to his 40th health fair in the Chicagoland area. Past President Neil Khot spoke about more such events in the upcoming year, which will include Visa Services, Tax services, and General Counseling for people in the Chicagoland region. This program was supported by the Consulate General of India Chicago. In the vote of thanks, Kamlesh Kapoor, said, everybody agreed it was a Sunday well spent and hundreds of people benefited for six hours.

Kamlesh Kapoor thanked FIA sponsors, FIA Leadership, and the super-busy doctors and healthcare givers who provided generosity, endless commitment, and invaluable services. It was inspirational to see our own FIA Executive Director Ila Patel, the super charged phlebotomist, be on her feet and actually taking the blood samples for the entire duration of the program. The required equipment and blood sampling kits were provided by Neal Patel from MedStar. The program concluded with a very healthy and balanced lunch, which was designed especially by our very own dietitian associated with FIA.

The grand finale of the event featured a delicious Punjabi feast, bringing the day to a close on a satisfying note. The Senior Friendship Group Chicago’s Christmas Party was a resounding success, weaving together joy, camaraderie, and the spirit of the festive season.

Bihar-Jharkhand Association Plans For 50th Anniversary  Under New Leadership

The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) recently elected new leadership for the 2-year term 2024-2025.

Sanjeev Singh, who has served BJANA in various capacities including as Secretary, and as Vice President, has been elected as the new President of BJANA.

The other office-bearers include Priti Kashyap as Vice President, Sushant Krishen as Secretary, Vandana Kumar as Joint Secretary, and Priya Ranjan as Treasurer. Additionally, the elected executive members are Dr. Avishek Kumar, Akhilesh Azad, Sarika Dubey, Dipen Banerjee, Rahul Sahay, Ranjeet Kumar, Anish Anand, Bishwanath Sharma, and Saloni Sah.

Established in 1975, BJANA says it remains steadfast in its commitment to continuing its philanthropic efforts. For the future, it has set an ambitious goal to celebrate its grand golden jubilee, marking 50 years of service, and community engagement. The participation from all over North America indicates a desire to unite and involve a broad spectrum of individuals who share a connection with Bihar and Jharkhand, the organization said in a press release.

BJANA achieved significant milestones under its previous President, Anurag Kumar, providing valuable services to the people of Bihar and Jharkhand in the USA, and in India, a press release from the organization said. Sanjeev Singh expressed his gratitude to Anurag Kumar for his guidance, and the opportunity to serve the community.

Anurag Kumar expressed confidence in the new team, and wished them success.

The BJANA Election Commission, consisting of Late Dr. Anil Kumar, Ranjit Sinha, and Rakesh Kumar, also congratulated the new team and the young leaders.

Several community leaders, including Dr. Avinash Gupta, Dr. Binod Sinha, Dr. Sudhanshu Prasad, Shashi Sinha, Rajiv Akhaury, Bhawesh Choudhary, Anjali Prasad, and Vinay Singh, congratulated the new team, and wished them well. Alok Kumar, the past president of the Federation of Indian Association, and a BJANA member, also did the same.

Sanjeev Singh, born and raised in Bokaro Steel City with roots in Vaishali, Bihar, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, the press release said. With a management and finance background, he has spent close to two decades in the USA, working with global consulting organizations, and serving Wall Street financial services firms.

He maintains connections to his roots, and has actively participated in various community activities, and implemented many new ideas, including mentoring BJANA’s new generation and summer camp, working with local philanthropic organizations, building welfare partnerships in Bihar and Jharkhand, and establishing collaborations with local businesses in the USA to raise funds for BJANA’s charitable causes, and events.

Singh wants to press on with strengthening the community’s youth development network, building a robust professional network, backing entrepreneurs, and startups in the USA. His other objectives include fostering collaboration with colleges, and universities in Bihar & Jharkhand, and actively participating in community development initiatives related to economy, education, and health.

Senior Friendship Group Chicago’s Festive Extravaganza Unveiled in a Symphony of Joy and Unity for Christmas

Chicago, IL:The Senior Friendship Group Chicago, a close-knit community of seniors, recently organized a joyous Christmas Party on December 17, 2023, from 9:30 AM to 3 PM. The event was filled with heartwarming moments, delicious treats, and a variety of performances.

The festivities kicked off with a delightful breakfast featuring hot tea, coffee, and cookies, fostering a warm and communal atmosphere. President Harshadbhai Patel extended heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all attendees, including special guest Jayeshbhai Parekh. An overview of the day’s program was also presented.

Senior Friendship Group Chicago's Festive Extravaganza Unveiled in a Symphony of Joy and Unity for Christmas 2Notable highlights of the event included the honoring of Jayeshbhai Parekh by Harshadbhai Patel, Smita Parekh, Pinkiben, and Dineshbhai Thakker. Pinkiben shared festive greetings, sang Ganapati Aarti, while Smita Parekh mesmerized the audience with Pratharna and Madhurashtakam. Kantibhai Patel added a musical touch with a Christmas song, and Kiritbhai Thakkar and Pinkiben showcased Srinathji’s Bhagan. Jayashreeben Pandya presented Shiv Stuti, adding a spiritual dimension to the celebration.

The birthdays of members born in December were joyously celebrated, with Dineshbhai Thakkar, Meenaben Patel, and others cutting a cake and dancing to the birthday song. The atmosphere was lively and filled with laughter, creating cherished memories for everyone.

Asian Media USA played a crucial role in capturing the day’s highlights through pictures and videos. Harshadbhai Parekh expressed gratitude for his efforts, ensuring that the memories would be cherished for years to come.

Jigar Kiritbhai Shah took the opportunity to advertise Sahara Home Care, sharing information about his presentation and generously gifting water bottles and other items to all members and guests. His announcement added an extra layer of joy to the event.

In a delightful celebration of December birthdays, Dineshbhai Thakkar orchestrated a joyous event. Sunilbhai Shah and Pinkiben Thakkar, with their melodious voices, initiated birthday songs, creating a lively atmosphere. Harshadbhai Parekh, the President, added a special touch by starting the DJ, unleashing a burst of dance and happiness among members and guests. This innovative and memorable event marked a unique moment in the senior group’s history, and Harshadbhai expressed gratitude to Sunilbhai Shah and Pinkiben for their exceptional contributions. Kudos to their dynamic leadership!

The festivities continued with a lively Gujarati garba, where all the sisters of the group joined in, creating a jubilant and celebratory atmosphere.

First Time Ever AAPI Plans Global Healthcare Summit In Two Cities In India

Chicago, IL, December 11, 2023: “For the first time ever the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) has planned to have the annual Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) in two Cities IN India, giving delegates, who are coming to India to participate in GHS a unique perspective and experience from the North and the South India,” Dr. Anjana Samadder, President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) announced here today.

The flagship annual event of AAPI, the Global Healthcare Summit has contributed to ushering in new ways ofFirst Time Ever AAPI Plans Global Healthcare Summit In Two Cities In India 2 providing healthcare to India’s 1.4 Billion people, who live in the congested urban centers and in the rural/remote regions of the country. The 17th annual GHS will build on the past initiatives and add several new programs, Dr. Samadder added.

“The registration for AAPI’s 17th annual Global Healthcare Summit 2024 at the prestigious Le Meridien Hotel from January 1-3rd and at the Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Mahe in Karnataka from January 4th to 6th, 2023 is filling up fast,” said Dr. Samadder. The CMEs and other related events will be held at the pioneering All India al Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on the January 2nd.

Dr. Lokesh Edara, Chair of AAPI BOT said, “AAPI’s GHS is yet another way of continuing with our constant commitment towards making quality healthcare affordable and accessible to all the people of India. In addition, GHS 2024 will also focus on promoting Healthcare Technology including Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare.”

First Time Ever AAPI Plans Global Healthcare Summit In Two Cities In India 3While elaborating on the themes and areas that are going to be covered during the Summit, Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Chair of GHS 2024 said, “Future of Healthcare and Artificial Intelligence” will be the theme for the GHS 2024, which is organized by AAPI in collaboration with Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, the Indian Medical Association, and the Government of the State of Karnataka.”

The GHS will be inaugurated at the Le Meridien Hotel in New Delhi with a memorable New Year’s Day Eve celebration on December 31st, 2023.

Several prominent physicians and academicians have been invited and have been accepted to be the keynote speakers and chairs of various academic sessions planned and organized during the summit. Latest Advances, CME, ELS, Discussions on Research Methodology, and Scientific Writing by Academic Experts will be part of the summit.

The focus this year will be on Mental Health, Infant and Maternal Mortality as well as Medical Jeopardy and Research Poster presentations by medical students. In addition, there will be panel discussions by International Medical Education experts and National Medical Council Board officials and mentoring of Young Professionals.

Advocacy to dismantle the stigma of mental illness and Suicide Prevention will be the highlight of the program. Chronic Disease Reversal and Prevention, Rural Health Initiatives will continue to be promoted and other Global Health Issues including Climate Change and its impact on health will be discussed.

The CEO Forum will focus on Equity, Ethics, and Physician Burnout issues. The Women’s Forum will deliberate on Gender Bias and Leadership. Dr. Manoj Jain, Chair of CETI – Collaboration to Eliminate TB in India supported by CDC and USAID will discuss their ongoing long-term TB Elimination Projects in India. Comprehensive details and outcomes of TB Elimination Projects in India will be presented to the GHS delegates.

Other activities will include CPR Training for Police personnel; a Walkathon on combating mental health stigma and prevention of Childhood Obesity and several other initiatives will be announced, including treatment modalities for non-communicable medical diseases.

Dr. Anupam Seibel, GHS Chair – New Delhi says, “With physicians from the United States, the Summit is expected to be attended by nearly 400 delegates from India, the US and other parts of the world. AAPI Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) will have many new initiatives and also will be carrying the torch of ongoing projects undertaken by AAPI’s past leaders.”

Lt. Gen. Dr. M.D. Venkatesh, Co-Chair of GHS – India says, “Many of the physicians who will attend this convention have excelled in different specialties and subspecialties and occupy high positions as faculty members of medical schools, heads of departments, and executives of hospitals and pharma companies.

According to GHS Convenor – USA, Dr. Subramanya Bhatt, “The preliminary program is in place, the major attractions include cutting-edge CMEs with renowned speakers, CEO Forum, Innovation Forum, an Entrepreneur Forum, Women’s Forum, and Product Theaters to highlight the newest advances in patient care and medical technology.”

“Alumni meetings for networking, an AAPI-India Strategic Engagement Forum to showcase the AAPI initiatives in India, TB Eradication in India, and recognition of AAPI Award winners will make this Summit unique,” added Dr. Rohit Singh, GHS Convenor – India.

According to CME Chair – USA Dr. Banbwal Suresh Balinga and CME Chair -India, Dr. Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, the focus of GHS 2024 will be on Mental health, Infant and Maternal Mortality, Medical Jeopardy, and Research Poster presentations by medical students with panel discussions by International Medical Education experts and National Medical Council Board officials will help mentoring of young professionals.

GHS Scientific Chair Dr. Rajendran Alappan said, “In our efforts to realize the core mission of AAPI, which is to share the best from leading experts from around the world, to collaborate on clinical challenges, the GHS in Delhi and Manipal will have clinical tracks that are of vital to healthcare in India.”

Dr. Sumul Raval, Secretary of AAPI says, “GHS 2024 is aimed at exploring possibilities for greater collaboration and cooperation between the physicians and health care providers in India with those of Indian origin and major health-care providers abroad.”

Healthcare in India is one of the largest sectors, in terms of revenue and employment. India is making significant improvements in its healthcare infrastructure and is building modern medical facilities throughout India. Doctors of Indian origin have made tremendous progress in the 21st century and India is now being touted as a medical tourism hub.

Dr. Anjana Samadder said, “We are collaborating with senior leaders from leading healthcare organizations including pharmaceuticals, device and medical equipment manufacturers and major medical teaching institutions, hospitals and the Ministries of Health, External/Overseas Affairs and regulatory bodies to attend and coordinate with AAPI with an ultimate goal to providing accessible and affordable high-quality healthcare to all people of India.”

The Global Healthcare Summit has come a long way from the first Indo-US Healthcare Summit launched by AAPI USA in 2007. Since then, AAPI has organized 16 Indo – US/Global Healthcare Summits and developed strategic alliances with various organizations.

Dr. Samadder said, AAPI is hopeful that several international healthcare industry partners are looking for opportunities to participate at this event for greater collaboration on Research & Development and philanthropic engagements.

Dr. Samadder expressed gratitude to all the Chairs and members of various Committees who are working hard to put together a great Summit and to enable members to return home with memories that will last a lifetime.

“Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country and internationally will meet and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, to develop health policy agendas, and to encourage legislative priorities in the coming year. We look forward to seeing you in New Delhi and Manipal!” said Dr. Samadder. For more details, please visit: www.aapiusa.org/  To register for the Global Healthcare Summit 2023, please visit: https://summit.aapiusa.org

Rajasthani Association Announces 2023-25 Leadership

The Rajasthan Association of North America has elected a new leadership team for the year 2023-25 .Current president and prominent New York-based social activist Prem Bhandari has been re-elected to the post of president.

In addition to Bhandari serving as president, the newly elected vice president, Dr Sharad Kothari, secretary Ravi Jargad, and treasurer Neelam Modi make up the executive committee of RANA, New York. According to the organization’s election committee, the elections were unanimous.

In light of RANA’s upcoming 25th anniversary, Bhandari announced that preparations are underway to host a worldwide convention next year. The organisation has held several international conventions over the years, which former Rajasthan Chief Ministers, Ashok Gehlot and Vasundhara Raje attended.

RANA’s primary goals include bridging the gap between the state of Rajasthan and its diaspora and bringing attention to and support for Rajasthani cultural heritage across the United States. This year the organisation spearheaded the Millets awareness campaign abroad on the occasion of the International Year of Millets (IYM).

Bhandari, who also serves as the chairman of Jaipur Foot USA and of US chapter of REDIO – Rescuing every Distressed Indian Overseas, was instrumental in the globalisation of the millets awareness campaign. Under his direction an an all millets meal was launched in collaboration with the head chef of New York-based restaurant SAAR. He has also worked with Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Chief Coordinator for India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 to organize the Jodhpur Millets Festival, among others. RANA’s primary goals include bridging the gap between the state of Rajasthan and its diaspora.

Sewa USA Launches Fundraiser For Cyclone Michaung Victims

Sewa USA, a Hindu-faith-based humanitarian nonprofit service organization with over 40 chapters in the country, has called for donations to help victims of the tropical storm cyclone Michaung that recently battered the south Indian states of Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Tamil Nadu (TN).

“Our Cyclone Michaung Relief Fund provides immediate assistance to those in need. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of affected individuals and families,” the campaign reads. The organization has requested contributions toward emergency shelter and supplies, medical aid, and food and water distribution. They have garnered US $2,842 in donations from their US $50,000 goal.

Sewa USA Launches Fundraiser For Cyclone Michaung VictimAt least 17 people were killed in rain-related incidents in Chennai, which suffered the most damage from the cyclone, according to city police. These deaths were caused by collapsing walls, electrocution, drowning, and falling trees. More than ten people were injured in the city and taken to various hospitals for treatment. Despite Michaung making landfall with sustained winds of 90-100 kmph, no casualties were reported in Andhra Pradesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X, “My thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Michaung, especially in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry. My prayers are with those injured or affected in the wake of this cyclone. Authorities have been working tirelessly on the ground to assist those affected and will continue their work till the situation fully normalises.”

Aside from the loss of life and property, the constant rains in the states of AP and TN caused the cancellation of hundreds of inbound and outbound flights from the airports in Hyderabad and Chennai. The downpours caused power outages and cellular network outages in different areas of these states.

ICAI Washington DC Chapter Celebrates Election of Kannan Srinivasan To Virginia House of Delegates

Members of the ICAI Washington DC Chapter gathered to honor and celebrate the historic achievement of CA Kannan Srinivasan, recently elected to the Virginia House of Delegates District 26. In a groundbreaking moment, CA Kannan Srinivasan becomes the first Chartered Accountant from India to be elected to the distinguished House.

As Chair of the Virginia Medicaid Board, CA Kannan Srinivasan has also been instrumental in expanding Medicaid access, positively impacting the lives of over 2 million Virginians.

Speaking at the event, CA Kannan expressed gratitude to his supporters and outlined his commitment to addressing critical issues such as healthcare, education, accessibility services, infrastructure, and the economy.

CA Srihari Tolasi, representing the current managing committee of the ICAI Washington DC Chapter at the event, underscored the significance of this achievement for CA members in DC and the broader U.S. He emphasized that CA Kannan’s journey serves as an inspiring beacon for many immigrants, showcasing the rewards of hard work and dedication.

The event was attended by distinguished members of the ICAI Washington DC Chapter, including CA Kalpesh Desai (Chairman, External Relations, ICAI Washington DC Chapter), CA Gokuldas Pai (Founding Chairperson), and esteemed senior members of the Washington DC CA Fraternity such as Sree Harsha, Dinesh Nath, Sneha Rajagopal, Priya Mushti, Shailaja Chari, Vijay Rathi, Pradeep Sahajwalla, and Sarvesh Sharma.

About Kannan Srinivasan

ICAI Washington DC Chapter Celebrates Election of Kannan Srinivasan To Virginia House of Delegates 2The 26th House District includes the South Riding and Brambleton areas, and stretches from the Dulles Greenway to the southeastern corner of Loudoun County.

“My experience in both the public and private sectors will serve the residents of Loudoun and Virginians across the Commonwealth well,” said Srinivasan, who had previously filed to run for the 27th District.

“I will fight for our public schools, stand up for gun safety, and protect abortion rights,” he said in his campaign announcement.

In 2019, Srinivasan unsuccessfully ran against Republican Loudoun County Treasurer Roger Zurn. A Loudoun resident for almost 25 years, Srinivasan immigrated from India in 1993, according to his campaign.

As a young man, Srinivasan was hit by a truck and was denied medicaid assistance. He now serves as vice chair of the Virginia State Medicaid Board, and has helped to expand Medicaid to cover more than two million Virginians.

“Kannan Srinivasan has been a public servant for years. I enthusiastically endorse his candidacy for Virginia State Delegate and will do all I can to help him become a member of the Virginia General Assembly,” Loudon County Board of Supervisors Chair Phyllis Randall said.

Srinivasan served in Loudoun Fiscal Impact Committee, which helped him learn the drivers of Loudoun’s growth and the multitude of needs to support the growth. He currently serves as a Commissioner in Loudoun Economic Development Advisory Commission where his focus is on helping Loudoun diversify its economy.

Born to parents who were school teachers, Srinivasan says he believes in education being the greatest equaliser and the best investment for our community’s future.He completed his Bachelors in Commerce from University of Madras.

Gujarati Physicians’ Association Celebrates Sardar Patel Jayanti in New Jersey

The Gujarati Physicians Association (GPA) held Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Jayanti which would fall on December 15th, combined with a Diwali and New Year celebration at the Royal Albert’s Palace in Fords, New Jersey Friday, December 1, 2023.

Attended by more than 200 Indian American physicians from Gujarat, the evening’s program began with lighting of the ceremonial lamp by GPA committee members and Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold, and H.R. Shah, Chairman of TV Asia.

After the lamp lighting, a song rendered 20 years ago by famous Indian singer Sonu Nigam was played to honor Sardar Patel. The song was the same one which Nigam sang when Albert Jasani inaugurated the Sardar Patel Statue in New Jersey, Dr. Jayesh Patel informed attendees.

The first award of the evening went to Albert Jasani. Announcing the award, Dr. Jayesh Patel, who emceed the event, said Jasani was a big man with a heart of gold. Noting that Jasani was going to be the Grand Marshal at the upcoming Woodbridge Holiday Parade, Dr. Jayesh Patel said it was the first time that an Indian American was going to act as the Grand Marshal in a parade organized by any Indian association. He went on to praise Jasani saying he was always ready to help in any manner, and added that the evening’s dinner was provided by him.

Accepting the award, Jasani said he remembered the ceremony from 20 years ago. Speaking of the Ramji Temple in India which is going to be consecrated in January 2024, Jasani invited everyone present to the temple consecrating ceremony.

Dr. Mukund Thakar of Aristacare, was recognized for his services in adult care, and contributions to the healthcare industry in that sector, especially in regard to the Indian American community.

Dr. Parikh presented an award to Dr. Vithal Dhaduk in absentia. His award was accepted by Shobhna Patel of Royal Albert’s Palace as Dr. Dhaduk was away in Florida for an emergency.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Parikh said it was good to see so many Gujarati physicians and their families gather for the evening’s celebrations. He credited Dr. Hemant Patel, past president of AAPI, Dr. Jayesh Patel, Dr. Sumul Raval, and many other volunteers for organizing the event.

“The organization provides a great networking platform to us and also for our second generation,” Dr. Parikh said, urging those gathered to keep supporting the association and be part of the family.

Wishing those gathered a happy Diwali and New Year, Parikh reminded them about the upcoming office bearer’s elections in January 2024, and asked them to support Dr. Sumul Raval for the post of the Vice President of national AAPI.

He described Dr. Raval as a good person and a good physician, ready to help the Gujarati physicians and their families, and the AAPI families in general. “God bless you, our tristate physicians’ association,” Parikh said, adding, “God bless India and God bless America.” (Courtesy: News India Times)

United Christian Cultural Association Organizes Grand Christmas Carols Nite Banquet 

Chicago IL: United Christian Cultural Association [UCCA] hosted a grand Christmas Carols Nite Banquet brimming with sights & sounds pervaded by melodious carols, colorful dances, skit, inspiring yuletide sermonette – all that was significantly enhanced by an exceptionally prolific singer/ composer Quincy Chett who enthralled the guests with his distinct melodic compositions evoking laudatory ovation. This interfaith and inter-denominational celebration was held at the Monty’s Elegant Banquet in Bensenville, Illinois drawing over 300 guests.

United Christian Cultural Association Organizes Grand Christmas Carols Nite Banquet 2United States Congressman Hon. Raja Krishnamoorthi who was the Chief Guest of Honor heaped fine compliments on the leadership team of United Christian Cultural Association for hosting a grand Christmas celebrations. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi highlighted the significance of Christmas and said Christmas is a time of coming together of all religions and added, we should walk humbly, do justly and love mercy in this season. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said while Christmas is dear to Christians, but it remains special to the people of all faiths, as Christmas is largely a set of ideals that symbolize the birth of savior Jesus Christ who is revered as the prince of peace and concluded that we should not preach sermon, but live the essence and ideals of sermon.

UCCA women’s team Havilah Maddela Devarapalli, Ujwala Neela, Saritha Pasumarthi, Persis Dadepogu, Sujata Pulikuri, Margaret Sanyogita Charles and Dr. Ramya Joshua all dressed in resplendent colors took to the stage to honor Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Dr. Priya Krishnamoorthi with Shawls and flower bouquets in appreciation and gratitude for his inspiring remarks and for their gracious presence.

Mr. T D Bhutia, Deputy Consul General of India offered special greetings on behalf of the office of the ConsulateUnited Christian Cultural Association Organizes Grand Christmas Carols Nite Banquet General of India and thanked UCCA team for hosting truly a spirited Christmas celebratory event.

Earlier, Dr. Heyer Paul Devarapalli welcomed the guests and outlined the mission and purpose of the United Christian Cultural Association. Dr. Heyer Paul Devarapalli emphasized that UCCA is deeply committed to advance the culture and faith of the Christian community and added UCCA has conducted several charitable mission drives including hosting Health Fair for the underserved families.  Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Director in his remarks said Christmas is largely celebrated as a universal festival all across the world and added Christmas represents Peace, Joy and more importantly, it offers an opportunity to foster an interfaith harmony in a largely polarized world.

Rev. Dr. Peter Pereira, in his yuletide sermonette, presented the contemporary vision of Christmas and said Christmas is timeless, and the same message is still relevant today. In fact, the central story of Christmas has a lot to say about the world we live in today wherein the birth of Savior Christ gives us hope to the entire world, said Rev. Pereira.

Dr. Heyer Paul Devarpalli, Raju Pasumarthi, Emmanuel Neela, Sunil Joshua, Vasanth Charles, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Satish Dadepogu and Ravi Pulukuri were the principal hosts for the Christmas Banquet. Raju Pasumarthi Enoch, UCCA President, said that UCCA has been initiating innovative programs to empower the Telugu Christian community to make a difference in the lives of the people.  UCCA Vice President Emmanuel Neela outlined the vision statement of the UCCA and spelled out its future programs, which includes music festivities, cricket tournaments, and family retreats.

The event was attended by a large number of Christian families, complemented by the presence of representatives from the Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh communities including Ajeet Singh, Gladson Varghese, Nag Jaiswal, Vinesh Virani, Vibha Rajput, Shree Guruswamy, Alli Dhanraj, Chris Veteran, Babu Verma, and Khurram Syed. There was a large telugu organizational leadership presence including Madan Pamulapati, Murthy Koppaka, Srinivas Yelamchanchali, Mahesh Kakarla, Srinivas Pidikit, Srinivas Boppana from NATS; Rao Achanta, Ravi Achanta and Hema Chandra.  Media Partners Suresh Bodiwala of Asian Media USA and Prachi Jaitley, Phani Krishna of IUSA Media were present. Several local pastors & clergies attended the celebrations including Rev. David Vidysagar, Rev. Robert Saturi, Rev. Smt. Subhadra Vipparthi, Rev. Thomas Polepaka & Rev Omega.

Exploring the Depths of Spirituality: Insights from Pew Research

The terms “spiritual” and “spirituality” have posed a challenge for researchers and scholars in the realm of religion, defying easy definition. What constitutes being spiritual? Does it entail a sense of wonder, well-being, or peace? Is belief in God or a higher power a prerequisite? These terms appear so elastic that they encompass a myriad of disparate ideas and experiences.

A recent study conducted by Pew Research delves into the meaning of “spiritual” for those who identify with the term, shedding light on the beliefs and practices of individuals who consider themselves “spiritual but not religious.” In their report titled “Spirituality Among Americans,” Pew surveyed over 11,000 people earlier this year, revealing that 7 in 10 U.S. adults describe themselves as spiritual in some way.

The study finds that almost half of respondents identify as both religious and spiritual. This suggests a dual engagement, where individuals participate in religious institutions while also maintaining personal spiritual practices or perspectives outside formal religious traditions. Meanwhile, 22% of U.S. adults identify as “spiritual but not religious,” 21% claim neither spiritual nor religious affiliation, and 10% identify as religious but not spiritual.

The shifting landscape of religious affiliation in the United States has witnessed increased diversity in recent years. While Christianity remains the predominant faith, there has been a rise in the numbers of Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and other religious groups. However, there is an overarching trend of declining religious affiliation, indicating a reduced identification with specific religious groups.

Lead Pew researcher Becka Alper notes the ongoing attempt to make sense of this shift, asking, “Is the U.S. public becoming more secular? Are they becoming more spiritual?” The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of spiritual beliefs, practices, and experiences.

Key findings from the survey include:

– 83% of all U.S. adults believe in the existence of a soul or spirit alongside the physical body.

– 81% acknowledge the presence of something spiritual beyond the natural world, even if it is imperceptible.

– 74% assert that there are aspects science cannot explain.

– 45% report experiencing a sudden connection with something beyond this world.

– 38% claim to have felt a strong connection with a departed person communicating from beyond.

Regarding the meaning of “spiritual,” the majority (74%) associate it with “being connected to something bigger than myself.” A substantial 70% specify that it means “being connected with God,” while 64% interpret it as “being connected with my true self.” Only 40% equate spirituality with adherence to a specific religious faith. The term also encompasses various other interpretations, such as a connection with nature, other people, deceased loved ones, open-mindedness, or the continuation of family traditions.

A recurring theme across these interpretations is the idea of being “connected.”

Notably, evangelical Christians, predominantly white, and members of historically Black Protestant churches share similar experiences. Both groups overwhelmingly report a deep sense of well-being at least once a month due to their spiritual beliefs and practices, a sentiment less prevalent among other religious groups like Catholics or Mainline Protestants.

In allowing respondents to describe in their own words what being spiritual means, Pew received a diverse range of anonymous responses, including:

– “Being one with your soul, emotions, feelings, actions.”

– “Believing in something larger and more creative than science.”

– “One with the universe!”

– “The belief that a supreme being is the creator of the universe, and that humans’ existence in this realm is transient.”

– “It means having a relationship with God and a belief system that includes a responsibility to do what is right.”

Given that this survey marked the first time Pew posed many of these questions specifically about spirituality, it serves as a baseline rather than establishing trends. Pew plans to continue exploring these themes in subsequent years, offering a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of religion and spirituality among Americans.

Neha Mahajan, Ilayas Quraishi Elected To Asian Indian Chamber Of Commerce BOD For 2024-2025

Ilayas Quraishi, COO at the Parikh Media and Neha Mahajan, Business development and Outreach manager at Chugh are among those elected to the Borad of Directors of The Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce (AICC) after the elections held on November 29, 2023 at the prestigious Mogul Ballroom in Edison, NJ.

Other newly elected Board of Directors for the term 2024-25 include: Rajeev Krishna, Rekha Sarathy, Chetan Wattamwar,  Harry Mehta, Komal Dangi, Ajay Kumar, Parag Nevatia, and Shachi Rai Gupta.

This term marks the inclusion of three new faces, Neha Mahajan, Shachi Rai Gupta, and Ajay Kumar, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the AICC leadership, the organization said. “Each member of the newly elected board brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, and their leadership is expected to contribute significantly to the growth and success of the chamber,” a press release isued here stated.

Addressing the gathering, current President Rajeev Krishna,  highlighted the accomplishments of the last two years under his leadership. He expressed gratitude to the dedicated Board members who he said, worked tirelessly to elevate the organization.  He said he expected AICC to achieve new heights, and hoped to organize AI technology seminars to impact small businesses positively. He encouraged Board members to share their ideas and actively participate in implementing them.

“I am thrilled to share the exciting news ablut the newly concluded elections for AICC. Each member to the BOD brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the table, and I am confident that their leadership will significantly to the growth and success of our chanmber,” wrote Ilayas Quraishi after being elected to the Board.

Neha Mahajan in her remarks after being elected to the BOD said, “Super excited and thankful to be voted and appointed to the Borad of Directors of The Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce. Looking forward to serving the community at large, one step at a time, creating newer heights for the business community.’

Anil Bansal and Priti Pandya Patel, past presidents of AICC,  conducted the election process efficiently, in their positions as  election committee members. They announced the results, and extended heartfelt congratulations to the new board.

As a gesture of appreciation to the members, Kunal Lamba, a well-known singer from New Jersey, entertained the audience with Bollywood melodies at the event.

PEW Study Says, Nearly 50% Of Asian Americans Face Discrimination In US

Most Asian Americans experience discrimination in many parts of their day-to-day lives. In the survey, we asked Asian American adults if they have ever experienced discrimination or been treated unfairly because of their race or ethnicity.

In addition to this broad question, we also asked whether they have experienced specific discrimination incidents in their everyday life. These include incidents in interpersonal encounters with strangers; at security checkpoints; with the police; in the workplace; at restaurants or stores; and in their neighborhoods.

A recent report from the Pew Research Center reveals that encountering prejudice is a commonplace experience for the majority of Asian Americans living in the US.

About 58 percent of Asian individuals have experienced racial discrimination or unfair treatment because of their race or ethnicity, according to the report, which was based on a poll of more than 7,000 participants. Of those, 53 percent said they encounter racial discrimination sometimes and 5 percent say it happens very often.

PEW Study Says Nearly 50% Of Asian Americans Face Discrimination In US (VOA)
Picture: VOA

The prevalence of reported racial discrimination among Asian adults varies across demographic groups, particularly concerning ethnic origin. In this context, 67 percent of Korean adults recall experiencing racial discrimination, a higher percentage compared to Vietnamese adults at 57 percent, Filipino adults at 55 percent, and Indian adults at 50 percent. According to the report, U.S.-born Asian adults are more inclined to acknowledge experiencing racial discrimination compared to their immigrant counterparts, with 65 percent of U.S.-born individuals reporting such experiences, as opposed to 55 percent among immigrants.

The report also found that 57 percent of U.S.-born Asian adults have been called offensive names by strangers, almost twice the rate of Asian immigrants at 30 percent. Among Indian adults, 26 percent report that strangers have used offensive names to refer to them, a percentage lower than that reported by individuals from other ethnic origin groups.

About six-in-ten Asian adults (58%) say they have ever experienced racial discrimination or been treated unfairly because of their race or ethnicity. This includes 53% of Asian adults who say they have experienced racial discrimination from time to time and 5% who say they experience it regularly.

Whether Asian adults say they have experienced racial discrimination varies across some demographic groups:

  • Ethnic origin:67% of Korean adults say they have experienced racial discrimination, higher than the shares among Vietnamese (57%), Filipino (55%) and Indian (50%) adults.
  • Nativity:S.-born Asian adults are more likely than immigrants to say they have experienced racial discrimination, 65% versus 55%.
  • Immigrant generation:69% of Asian immigrants who are 1.5 generation – those who came to the U.S before they were 18 years old – say they have ever experienced racial discrimination. About half of immigrants who traveled to the U.S. as adults (first generation) say the same.
  • Years in U.S.:45% of immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the last decade say they have experienced racial discrimination, compared with 60% of those who have been in the U.S. for more than 20 years.12

Discrimination in interpersonal encounters with strangers

In the survey, we asked Asian adults whether they have experienced discrimination incidents in their daily interpersonal encounters with strangers.

  • 37% of Asian adults say strangers have called them offensive names.
  • 18% say strangers have acted as if they thought they were dishonest.
  • 12% say people have acted as if they were afraid of them.

About 37% of Asian adults say that in day-to-day encounters in the U.S., strangers have called them offensive names. Whether Asian adults say they have had this experience is associated with their experiences with immigration:

  • 57% of U.S.-born Asian adults say strangers have called them offensive names. They are nearly twice as likely as Asian immigrants (30%) to say this.
  • Among immigrants, 54% of Asian adults who immigrated as children (1.5 generation) say they have been called offensive names by strangers, while 20% of those who immigrated as adults (first generation) say the same.
  • 39% of immigrants who have been in the U.S. for more than two decades say they have been called offensive names. By contrast, 16% of those who immigrated 10 years ago or less say the same.

Responses also vary across other demographic groups:

  • Ethnic origin:26% of Indian adults say strangers have called them offensive names, a lower share than other origin groups.
  • Regional origin: This pattern is also echoed among regional origin groups. Among South Asian adults overall, 29% say they have been called offensive names, compared with higher shares of East (41%) and Southeast (39%) Asian adults.
  • Age:About four-in-ten Asian adults under 50 years old say they have been called offensive names, compared with 33% of those 50 to 64 and 25% of those 65 and older.
  • Race:50% of Asian adults who identify with two or more races – that is, those who identify as Asian in addition to at least one other race – say they have been called offensive names by strangers during day-to-day encounters. In comparison, 36% of those who are single race – those who identify as Asian and no other race – say the same.

In the survey, we also asked Asian Americans whether they have ever hidden part of their heritage – including cultural customs, food, clothing or religious practices – from non-Asians. Whether Asian Americans have hidden their culture is associated with their experiences of being called offensive names:

  • 60% of Asian adults who have hidden their heritage say they have also been called offensive names by strangers, compared with 32% of those who have not hidden part of their heritage.

Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey Ignites Spirit with Mega Event

The Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey recently orchestrated a monumental event, drawing over 500 individuals from the vibrant New Jersey and Tri-state area. This gathering marked the triumphant relaunch of the Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey, encapsulating three pivotal focal points: the ongoing elections in five states, the kickoff campaign for the 2024 elections, and a poignant Diwali celebration, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey Ignites Spirit with Mega Event 2Under the distinguished leadership of Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey President Pradip (Peter) Kothari and Chairman Harkesh Thakur, the event hosted esteemed guests, including the chief guest Sam Pitroda, Global Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress. Notable leaders of Indian Overseas Congress such as Vice Chairman George Abraham, Secretary General Harbachan Singh, and Working President Pradeep Samla also graced the occasion along with other IOC office bearers.

Mr. Sam Pitroda captivated the audience as he took the stage, recounting his inspiring journey from India to the USA and back. With a spotlight on his significant contributions to shaping India’s IT and telecom industry, Pitroda addressed pressing challenges, including communal disharmony and threats to constitutional values. Drawing poignant parallels with global crises in Ukraine, Israel, and Palestine, he underscored the divisive nature of contemporary society. In his concluding remarks, Pitroda emphasized the paramount importance of upholding Gandhian principles, advocating for their role in fostering a more harmonious world.

In a passionate address, Peter Kothari inspired the audience to embrace their rights and freedoms, firmlyIndian Overseas Congress New Jersey Ignites Spirit with Mega Event 4 denouncing hate and divisive politics. Advocating for active participation in the Indian National Congress, he stressed its role in championing the rights of the deprived and oppressed. Kothari highlighted the profound impact of adhering to Gandhian ideology for positive societal change. Acknowledging the pivotal contributions of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel, he underscored their role in laying the foundation of modern India, creating institutions that provided free education to many abroad. Kothari also lauded Ms. Indira Gandhi’s support during Bangladesh’s Liberation War and Rajiv Gandhi’s efforts to propel India into the digital revolution through advancements in science and technology. Urging those aligned with Congress ideology to join the movement, he emphasized the principles of secularism, humanity, and democracy, welcoming everyone who shares these values.

Chairman IOC NJ Harkesh Thakur conveyed his wishes and support, encouraging widespread participation to ensure the success of Congress events. The gathering concluded with a shared commitment to uphold democracy and the principles outlined in the Indian constitution.

The proceedings were overseen by Qayam Mausmi, Secretary of Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey, focusing on the Congress themes of fostering unity across India. The Bharat Jodo Movement, aimed at bringing together people from all states and walks of life in India, served as the cornerstone of the event. Mr. Mausmi eloquently delved into the rich history of the Indian National Congress, emphasizing its profound significance as a symbol of India’s democratic ethos. Arjumand Juweria, Joint Secretary, voiced concerns about escalating disharmony in India, underscoring the imperative for collective attention and concerted efforts to address this pressing issue.

Indian Overseas Congress New Jersey Ignites Spirit with Mega Event 1Ram Gadula, Chairman of the Telangana Chapter, played  a pivotal force in orchestrating a seamlessly coordinated event. He played a crucial role in bringing together chapter heads from Kerala, Punjab, Telangana, Haryana, Andhra and other chapters of the Indian Overseas Congress in New Jersey. The event, a culmination of collective efforts, saw Sam Pitroda and Peter Kothari graciously acknowledging Chapter Heads. This celebration of unity and acknowledgment of leadership from diverse chapters marked a significant moment in the Indian Overseas Congress’s New Jersey chapter’s journey.

In a spirit of camaraderie and enthusiasm, the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) New Jersey Chapter witnessed a momentous event as Sam Pitroda, Peter Kothari, and Harkesh Thakur warmly greeted all members and office bearers. Vice Chairman Bharat Patel and Mr. Mukesh Maid, along with Vice President Manmitsing Vasdev, Tanzeem Ansari, and Mahesh Patel, added their support, further contributing to the event’s resounding success.

Qayam Masumi, a seasoned and dedicated member, has taken on the role of New Jersey Chapter Secretary, demonstrating the chapter’s trust in his capabilities. Raj Desai has assumed the position of Treasurer, while Dipak Valsadia and Harvender Singh have been appointed as Public Relations Officers. Pamposh Shaikh joins as Joint Treasurer, emphasizing the chapter’s dedication to effective communication and outreach. Together, these key figures embody the unity that is a hallmark of the IOC, showcasing their collaborative efforts and commitment to the organization’s objectives.

The spotlight of the event shone on the newly formed Executive Committee, a dynamic group comprising Raj Macwan, Vihari Patel, Neeraj Gamadia, Kirit Jakaria, Nandini Kothari, Nina Thakur, Jyoti Ruben, Dave Makkar, Chandrakant Bhatt Basha Syed and Ashish Master. Their diverse expertise, acknowledged and celebrated at the event, promises to be a driving force, enriching both the IOC NJ Chapter and the overarching Indian Overseas Congress.

The grand event, held in New Jersey by the Indian Overseas Congress, served as a powerful rallying point for the diaspora, promoting unity, peace, and a steadfast commitment to democratic values. The gathering resonated with enthusiasm and optimism, with participants expressing their fervent wishes for the Indian National Congress to triumph in all state elections and the upcoming 2024 elections.

NIAASC Holds 34th Conference In Tavares, Florida

The National Indo-American for Senior Citizens (NIAASC) held its 34th annual conference in the town of Tavares, Florida on Saturday, November 18th, 2023. This event which was attended by over 100 participants was held in collaboration with Shantiniketan-3, Tavares, Florida. Being that it was the signature annual event of NIAASC, a plethora of renowned professionals were in attendance and talked on various topics. The theme of the conference was: “Empowering Aging”.

NIAASC Holds 34th Conference In Tavares Florida 5Topics are appended below:

1 Protecting Seniors Citizens (Safeguarding against Scams) by Alicia Ramirez (AARP)

2 Aging — A Curse or Boon by Baldev Seekri

3 Debunking Anti-Aging Myths by Srinivasa Rao

The above-named speakers are nationally known professionals and have been endeared by the community-at-large. Alicia Ramirez is a retired professional from AARP and in her speech cautioned that AI technology is being used to scam the seniors and advised that seniors need to be cognizant on the aforementioned. Baldev Seekri is the author of ‘Meaningful Aging’ and one of the highlighting topics was how the mind-set can make meaningful aging happen. Srinivasa Rao, a bio-medical scientist who has authored a slew of articles on food and nutrition and in his presentation shed light on reverse aging via nutrition.

The conference started with lighting of the lamp and invocation by Acharya Praygraj, followed by the openingNIAASC Holds 34th Conference In Tavares Florida 1 remarks provided by Yogesh Naik from Shantiniketan-3 (Advisory Committee) and Chandrakant Shah (NIAASC Conference Coordinator) who welcomed all the participants and the guests. This was followed by the lecture topics as per above. All the above-named speakers are subject matter experts, and the delivery of the topics were succinct and material content was one that allayed a lot of apprehension/misgivings that the attendees had relating to Aging and its effects.

In her welcome speech, Gunjan Rastogi, NIAASC president greeted all participants and talked about the detailed program and in her concluding remarks assured the members of her unwavering commitment to the organization and further reiterated that the vision will continue to fortify the organization’s mission to be a force multiplier for helping the Seniors. Gunjan’s speech was followed by Rajeshwar Prasad who is the Founder and Chairman of NIAASC. He spoke at length the need to foster partnerships and collaboration which in an effort to seek synergy so as to pave the way for organizing an array of nation-wide workshops for Seniors.

NIAASC Holds 34th Conference In Tavares Florida 3The conference was financially supported by various sponsors and donations ranged from $51.00 to $10,000.00. The major sponsor being Santosh Kumar from Chicago she is also known as “Mother Teresa of Chicago”. India Home (NY) was another notable sponsor and supported the event by sponsoring the food. The cultural program was emceed by Tara Ashok and thoroughly regaled the audience with great fanfare.

At the end of every conference, it is the practice of getting evaluations done by the members in attendance with the sole purpose of getting better the next time. Deep dive into what works and what does not work are carefully examined so that areas and opportunities for improvement are taken intoNIAASC Holds 34th Conference In Tavares Florida 4 cognizance at the subsequent events.

NIAASC has been in operation since its inception of Spring of 1999 with the stated objectives “To provide help to seniors through information, referral and advocacy services.”.

For more information about NIAASC, please visit www.NIAASC.org or email at [email protected].

NAMAM Excellence Awards 2023 Recognize Achievements Of Indian Americans

The North American Malayalee Association (NAMAM) has announced the winners of the NAMAM Excellent Awards 2023 for Indian Americans who have excelled in their respective fields, who will be honored at the 2023 NAMAM Excellence Awards Gala at the Knanaya Catholic Center in New York City on December 2nd 2023. Organized under the auspices of the MBN Foundation, the annual awards recognize the achievements and contributions of Indian American community members from across North America.

Literature: Lakshmi M Nair

Lakshmi M Nair, a dynamic writer recognized by her pen name Amy Lakshmi, has been chosen to be awarded with the 2023 NAMAM Excellence Award for Literature. Her proficiency in both English and Malayalam is evident in her published short stories, articles, and translations, which have graced major Malayalam periodicals. Lakshmi’s travelogue, “Latin American Travels,” earned her the S K Pottakad Award for the Best Travelogue from FOKANA.

Karma Shresta

NAMAM Excellence Awards 2023 Recognize Achievements Of Indian Americans 2

: Anil Kumar Pillai

Anil Kumar Pillai, Commissioner of Consumer Affairs in Chicago and a former President of Kerala Hindus of North America (KHNA), is being honored with the 2023 NAMAM Karma Shresta Excellence Award. His more than four decades of service, including work at Quest Diagnostics, and continued dedication to social activities, mark him as an exemplary leader in the community.

Art & Culture: Mitrahs Group

Mitrahs Rajan and Mitrahs Shiraz, founders of Mitrahs Group will receive the 2023 NAMAM Excellence Awards for Arts and Culture. This recognition underscores their significant contributions in promoting and preserving Indian arts and culture in North America. Through Mitrahs Arts, established in 2011, they have provided a platform for talented artists, fostering creativity and innovation.

Community Service: A. K. Vijayakrishnan

  1. K. Vijayakrishnan, serving as a diplomat in the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, is the recipient of the 2023 NAMAM Community Excellence Award. His extensive 33-year career has seen him shoulder challenging responsibilities, including serving as the Community Affairs Consul at the Indian Embassy in New York since December 2019.

Medical Administration: Dr. Jacob Eapen

Dr. Jacob Eapen, a respected pediatrician and public health expert will be honored with the 2023 NAMAM Excellence Award for Medical Administration. His contributions, including serving on the State Health Care Board of California and securing a general election victory to the Board of Directors of the Washington Hospital Health Care System, showcase his dedication to healthcare leadership.

Politics: Legislator Dr. Aney Paul

Legislator Dr. Aney Paul, the first Malayalee legislator in New York State and a four-term elected official will receive the 2023 NAMAM Excellence Award for Political Leadership. Her notable achievements include initiating the Tobacco-21 Law and driving the recognition of August as the Indian Heritage month in NY State.

Young Entrepreneur: Akhil Suresh Nair

Akhil Suresh Nair, a distinguished marketing and e-commerce professional has been chosen to  receive the 2023 NAMAM Excellence Award for Young Entrepreneurship. Currently leading XENA Intelligence, Akhil has transformed the venture from a consulting firm into a thriving technology powerhouse. XENA is pioneering the industry with precise algorithms designed to scale e-commerce companies on platforms such as Amazon and Walmart.

Business: Dr. Mukund Thakar

Dr. Mukund Thakar, Founder and President of Aristacare, an esteemed Indian nursing home will be honored with the 2023 NAMAM Business Excellence Award. With over 19 years of medical experience, Dr. Thakar’s vision has led to the establishment of twelve facilities across New Jersey and New York, providing specialized rehabilitation and long-term care for elderly Indians.

Yuvadeepthi: Dr. Cilgy Abraham

Dr. Cilgy Abraham, a remarkable individual with a background in healthcare and law will be  honored with NAMAM Yuvadeepthi Excellence Award. Currently, she is serving as a research associate at Rutgers University RWJ Medical School and a law student at Georgetown University. In addition, she is actively engaged in an internship within the Executive Office of the President’s Office of Management and Budget within the White House, showcasing her commitment to multifaceted professional growth.

Visual & Social Media: Shijo Paulose

Shijo Paulose, a well-known journalist and blogger will be awarded with the 2023 NAMAM Visual and Social Media Excellence Award. With two decades of active presence in American media and captivating content on platforms like YouTube, Shijo stands out as a rare Malayali media personality with accreditation from important institutions, including the US State Department and the United Nations.

NAMAM President, Madhavan B Nair, expressed excitement about the upcoming awards night, celebrating individuals who have excelled in art, literature, science, medicine, humanitarian service, and business. Dr. Asha Menon, NAMAM President, and Paul Karukappilli, Program Coordinator and Managing Director of Kerala Times Online News Channel are pivotal figures in making this event a success. For more information, please visit www.namam.org

Indian Community Bids Farewell to Ambassador Randhir Kumar Jaiswal

The Indian American community in the New York region organized a farewell dinner in honor of India’s Consul General in New York Randhir Jaiswal, who returns to India soon to take over another important assignment as spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs. Held at the Moghul restaurant’s banquet hall in Edison, NJ on November 20, 202 hundreds of Indian Americans and leaders representing several community organizations attended the event, sharing of their fond memories of their close association with the Consul General of India.

Indian Community Bids Farewell to Ambassador Randhir Kumar Jaiswal 2Nearly 400 people attended the Federation of Indian Association’s farewell for one of the most memorable diplomats in recent history from India, one who had weathered the storm of COVID, brought the diaspora of Indian Americans closer to the Consulate, and who oversaw the delivery of consular services to the doors of many communities in the 10 states of the United States which were under his jurisdiction – for a period of 3 years.

In addition to Consul General Jaiswal and his wife Abha, the leadership and executive committee of FIA-NYNJCT, there were several high-profile guests who came to bid a fond farewell, among them Dr. Sudhir Parikh, advisor to FIA and chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media, Deputy Consul General Dr. Varun Jeph, Mayor of Edison Sam Joshi, Mayor of West Windsor Hemant Marathe, and H.R. Shah of TV Asia, to name a few. Edison, NJ, which boasts possibly the highest number of people of Indian origin, presented a proclamation in the name of CG Jaiswal, to him, at the event.

In all the speeches delivered at the event, the departing Consul General was recognized for his easy accessibility toIndian Community Bids Farewell to Ambassador Randhir Kumar Jaiswal those in his jurisdiction. Whether it was opening the Consulate to numerous community events, or going to many other events where he was honored and where he was making the presence of India felt in the diaspora.

Dr. Sudhir Parikh said CG Jaiswal was the “exceptional” person for exceptional times, when Covid hit, and India celebrated its 75th independence year. As soon as he landed, “he right away recognized the plight of the Indian students. … he did such an excellent handling of the situation,” Dr. Parikh recalled. He also helped many Indian organizations channel their assistance to India including the FIA, to help victims there; He took the Consulate to the community, holding consular camps all over the 10-state jurisdiction. “Jaiswalji has broken the record with events every other day. I have seen the last 23 Consuls General work here, and I can tell,” Dr. Parikh said.

Describing him as a “people person” – “calm, cool, always smiling,” Dr. Parikh said, whose quality of making one feel he or she is the center of his attention – “I really appreciate that quality.”

Edison Mayor Sam Joshi speaking at the farewell function for Indian Consl General in New York Randhir Jaiswal, hosted by FIA Nov. 20, at Edison, NJ. PHOTO ITV Gold

Edison’s Mayor Joshi said he had come to see CG Jaiswal not only as a diplomat but as a friend. He recounted an instance of when a building burnt down in Edison and most of those affected were Indian origin. He called CG Jaiswal about their passports etc., and they got the help needed.

“On behalf of all of Edison, thank you so much,” the Mayor said, and he read out from a special proclamation issued for the time and effort the Indian diplomat had given to help Edison citizens, and for his “superior leadership.”

Consul General Jaiswal in his speech, praised the Indian community for helping and supporting him and his team to carry out their duties. “In this 3 years, we have received excellent support in meeting our responsibilities,” he said, describing it as a “very healthy relationship” between the Consulate and the people it served. He added that he is most impressed by the achievements of the Indian American community and the second generation.

After Covid hit, “Since May of 2020, the Indian Consulate has been open every day of the week,” CG Jaiswal told the audience, something not seen in any other consulate around the world. He recounted some highlights during his tenure – such a the raising of the Indian flag at Times Square; people coming at 2 am at night to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s telecast speech; and the 8,000 who came to the White House to welcome PM Modi during his state visit to Washington, which he said, speaks volumes for the community’s achievements and recognition.

Deputy Consul General Jeph spoke of how the Consular team worked diligently under CG Jaiswal’s leadership, and how community engagement was the departing diplomat’s primary objective.

Ankur Vaidya, chairman of FIA, spoke emotionally about how CG Jaiswal had served his Motherland in taking up the diplomatic path of the Indian Foreign Service. “You have championed the diaspora,” Vaidya noted, adding, that the farewell was more to recognize and salute the journey to serve their nation. He also recognized Abha Jaiswal for her steadfast support without which the hard task would not have been possible.
Vaidya recalled the millions and millions of dollars in aid sent by organizations from the US and how the CG facilitated all that. “Kudos for putting that effort … to you and your team.”

From a time when going to the Consulate was intimidating, Vaidya said, today, people want to visit the building and see for themselves. “May your career shine…” to bring India and US closer together, he added.

Ambassador Randhir Kumar Jaiswal , on July 19, assumed charge as Consul General of India in New York . He succeeded Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty  who remained Consul General from April 2017 to June 2020. Ambassador Jaiswal ‘s last posting was as  Joint Secretary cum Social Secretary to the President of India Ramnath Kovind . A 1998 Indian Foreign Service officer, Jaiswal headed the foreign affairs office of the Rashtrapati Bhavan and advised  the President on India’s foreign policy. He had earlier served as Consul General of India in Johannesburg ,South Africa.

Jaiswal is no stranger to New York. He had earlier worked as a Counselor at the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York. Jaiswal, an officer of the 1998 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, will succeed the current spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, who has been appointed India’s permanent representative to the United Nations (UN) in Geneva.

During his diplomatic career of more than two decades, Jaiswal has served in Portugal, Cuba, South Africa and at India’s permanent mission to the UN in New York. Jaiswal has also served in the external affairs ministry as the deputy secretary, looking after relations with the US and as joint secretary managing ties with countries in western Europe. In mid-2017, he was deputed to serve the President as the joint secretary responsible for international relations. He was appointed in his current position of consul general in New York in July 2020.

Jaiswal has also been part of the Indian delegation at climate change conferences. He has a masters degree in history from Delhi University.

Diwali Celebration at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chicago

The celebrations of culture, spirituality, and community that began with the opening of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey continue to resonate in all BAPS Mandirs throughout North America this Diwali. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chicago, IL hosted a grand Diwali celebration on November 13, 2023, allowing the local community to immerse themselves in the deep-rooted traditions of this beloved Festival of Lights.

Diwali, the revered Hindu ‘festival of lights’, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, and good over evils a time for reflection, rejuvenation, and celebration for millions across the world. This year, the local BAPS Mandir presented an experience that seamlessly wove age-old traditions with contemporary expressions of faith, culture, and community.

“I just love the fact that this is such a family and community-oriented space. I think that often times when you are out in the world, you can feel disconnected or that you do not belong anywhere. Spaces like this bring people together and remind them that they are connected, and that there are people out there that share the same traditions and values. That is really important especially for the youth,” shared Karina Villa, IL State Senator representing the 25 th District.

Devotees and visitors were welcomed with a vibrant and traditional reception at the Mandirs entrance, where colorful decorations, including a beautifully intricate rangoli, an ornate floor design crafted from colored powder. This artistic display not only added to the festive atmosphere, but also served as a fitting introduction to the rich cultural heritage celebrated locally and nationally at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ, a landmark of Hindu architecture and culture.

Another awe-inspiring feature was the Annakut, where hundreds of vegetarian dishes were offered as a token of gratitude to the divine, symbolizing abundance and the community’s unwavering devotion for God and for the New Year, celebrated by some Indian Americans from the northern and western regions of India. Devotees, young and old, had poured weeks of preparation into ensuring the Annakut was a feast for both the eyes and the soul. “The Annakut preparation begins very early in the morning for us,” explained Jasmine Patel, a BAPS youth volunteer. The vegetarian food is traditionally arranged in tiers or steps in front of the sacred images of God. Today over 1,000 food items have been offered on this day of celebration and appreciation.”

For families, volunteers organized an array of children's activities, allowing younger generations to

bond with their cultural roots while partaking in the festivities. These encompassed storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and traditional games to engage all that took part in the celebrations. Similar to this local community celebration, BAPS mandirs across North America welcomed visitors with the glow of lights, bright colors, and a festive ambiance as they took in the colorful and joyful spirit of Diwali. The multiple days of Diwali are steeped in traditions and rituals that symbolize new beginnings and a renewed commitment to family.

The spiritual head of BAPS, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj sent blessings to all devotees and well-wishers for Diwali. He encouraged all to find the light within them and make it shine brighter by incorporating unity, values, spirituality, and a spirit of giving.

Reflecting on the day, the spirit of Diwali was palpably felt not just in the surroundings of the mandir, but in the hearts and souls of every visitor. The celebration marked a renewal of finding the good within and maintaining goodwill towards all around us. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir remains a pillar of culture, community unity, and spiritual enrichment. As the lights of Diwali continue to glow within our memories, the mandir extends its deepest gratitude to all who made this celebration a cherished moment in time.

About BAPS

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (B.A.P.S) is a volunteer-driven spiritual organization committed to fostering individual growth through Hindu values of faith, service, and harmony. It enriches society with the devoted efforts of tens of thousands of volunteers from diverse professional and social backgrounds, contributing millions of volunteer hours annually. Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS nurtures Hindu traditions in over 100 North American and 3,500 communities worldwide. Through these communities, it champions holistic personal growth, promotes social progress, and encourages diversity by embracing all. For more details, please visit www.baps.org.

About Mahant Swami Maharaj

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavji vandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.

Preet Bharara and June Kwan Receive CACF’s 2023 Catalyst for Change Awards 2023

The Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF) this week hosted the 2023 Catalyst for Change Awards to honor leaders who are a force for positive change in the AAPI community. The event raised over $340,000 for the organization and was held at Tribeca 360° in Manhattan.

The Coalition for Asian American Children and Families is the only pan-Asian children and families’ advocacy organization in the United States which brings together community-based organizations as well as youth and community allies to fight for equity for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

CACF honored June Kwan, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and mother of Academy Award-winner Daniel Kwan, who presented her with the award, and Preet Bharara, former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

Preet Bharara and June Kwan Receive CACF’s 2023 Catalyst for Change Awards 2023 3Attendees included NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, NYS Senator Brian Kavanaugh, NYC Councilmembers Shekar Krishnan and Linda Lee, and former NYS Assemblymember Yuh-Line Niou. NYS Attorney General Letitia James joined via video. The program was hosted by journalist and host/reporter of CUNY-TV’s Emmy-award winning “Asian American Life” Ernabel Demillo, Sesame Street star Alan Muraoka, and Emmy-winning TV journalist Vivian Lee, in addition to auctioneer Paul Florez-Taylor.

CACF Chair Art Chang greeted the guests and thanked all those in attendance for their help in growing the work of CACF. “CACF believes in love and action. Our vision is for all children and families including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in New York to be safe, healthy, and able to reach their full potential in life. Much of our success depends on our elected officials in New York State and New York City who have championed major legislative and budgetary wins for our communities, including passing data disaggregation laws in both New York City and New York State and getting almost $75 million for AAPI-serving community groups over the past three years,” said Chang.

Co-Executive Director Anita Gundanna expressed how proud CACF is to have won $35 million from the City andPreet Bharara and June Kwan Receive CACF’s 2023 Catalyst for Change Awards 2023 2 State this year and to have been entrusted to fund over 120 AAPI-serving community organizations. “We continue to be motivated by the real impact our budget wins are having on communities facing bias and hate. As a unified community, we are a powerful force for action to create an equitable New York,” said Gundanna.

Co-Executive Director Vanessa Leung echoed those sentiments and added “For every organization that is able to access funds to support their communities, we know we are sustaining life-affirming services and programs on the ground,” said Leung. “We hear back from our members that CACF reminded us of the importance of building together, to continue to share our stories, to help one another address immediate needs and create long-lasting change for our communities. We are energized by our coalition-members’ desires to learn to advocate together.”

Past honorees include AAPI leaders in media, education, business, philanthropy, arts and culture, and leadership development. The evening drew over 300 diverse and influential New Yorkers, many who are leaders, innovators and changemakers themselves, who are interested in investing in the AAPI community.

Why Do NRIs Want To Invest And Retire in India?

NRI’s want to retire to India

Manjiri Thomare, a non-resident Indian entrepreneur based in the San Francisco Bay area says that she wants to return to India after retirement. Thomare and her family had relocated to the States nearly a decade ago owing to her husband’s transfer and for better prospects for the children. After her children have established themselves, Thomare and her husband plan to return to India and reconnect with family and friends.

Why Do NRIs Want To Invest And Retire in India (India Currents)In India, hiring reliable home help is a game-changer, especially as one gets older, she feels. Thomare believes friends, acquaintances, and neighbors are also a big part of India’s companionship and social interaction scene. It’s been proven that social connections can make life less stressful and longer.

“The cost of living in India is way lower than in the USA. Housing is super affordable, and healthcare doesn’t break the bank. Everyday stuff like food, transportation, and household services won’t drain your wallet either. So, living in India means you can make your retirement savings last longer, allowing you to follow your passions, travel, and have a blast during your golden years. It’s all about having a great quality of life without burning through your hard-earned cash!” she says.

Emerging trends among NRIs

A recent survey by the Fintech platform SBNRI found that more than half of NRIs in countries like the USA, Australia, Canada, Singapore, and the UK want to invest and retire in India.

Earlier most Indians who left the country for better opportunities abroad preferred to retire in the developed nations they migrated to. However, in recent years, the retirement trends have changed and many NRIs are now aspiring to invest and retire in India.

Shubham Banerjee from the Founder’s Office of SBNRI feels there are several reasons for this change. In some developed nations, Indians go on work trips for a few years and these countries do not offer permanent residency or citizenship, so they must return to India.

“Many Indians want to have global exposure and move abroad for short durations. They also have emotional ties to their home country and want to come back and retire here,” Banerjee says.

Reasons to return

SBNRI found that more non-resident Indians are investing in India now and the potential has been rising in the last few years. Economic growth and the rise in tech, startups, and investment platforms have been the major reasons. Return from investments has also been higher in the last ten years, Banerjee believes.

Abhay Kumar Singh, a Senior Director at Oracle moved to the United States two years ago. While he feels the US is a great place to be in, he plans to move back to India with his wife after his son gets into an undergrad college in the US.

“We do feel that we live far away from my aging parents who are in India. While I do have my brother and sister there, my parents have mostly stayed with me when I was in India, and they are very close to my kids,” Singh says.

“While the US has several great things, we personally love India. Everybody’s life is very, very busy here, and most people would have a self-contained, family-centric upbringing. In India, we would go and meet our friends, brothers, sisters, and parents more often and the social attachment is stronger in India compared to the US,” he adds.

Reasons to leave

In India, there’s immense competition in terms of education and careers, and Singh’s family’s move was fueled by the fact that his kids could get better opportunities in the US. Quality in terms of education in America is much more practical-oriented and explorative compared to India where learning by rote is still prevalent.

“We felt our son could get a better platform for education in the US and choose from a wider variety of choices in terms of subjects,” Singh adds.

U.S. vs India

Healthcare costs in the US are much higher than in India, and people are often put on a long waitlist to see a medical practitioner unless it is an emergency. While most employers take care of health insurance, there can be cases where it is not fully covered. If paid out of one’s own pocket, medical costs could be too high for many people to afford.

“India is also growing at a much higher pace compared to other countries now. We came to the US to explore and see how things are. Both my wife and I are working now. We have seen what we wanted. After another 5-7 years, when we’re no longer working, we would like to be closer to our families and friends and mingle with the culture, traditions and festivities back home in India,” Singh says.

(Courtesy: indiacurrents.com)

Americans’ Trust in Scientists Continue to Decline

A new Pew Research Center survey finds the share of Americans who say science has had a mostly positive effect on society has fallen and there’s been a continued decline in public trust in scientists.

Key findings

image7Impact of science on society

Overall, 57% of Americans say science has had a mostly positive effect on society. This share is down 8 percentage points since November 2021 and down 16 points since before the start of the coronavirus outbreak.

About a third (34%) now say the impact of science on society has been equally positive as negative. A small share (8%) think science has had a mostly negative impact on society.

Trust in scientists

When it comes to the standing of scientists, 73% of U.S. adults have a great deal or fair amount of confidence in scientists to act in the public’s best interests. But trust in scientists is 14 points lower than it was at the early stages of the pandemic.

The share expressing the strongest level of trust in scientists – saying they have a great deal of confidence in them – has fallen from 39% in 2020 to 23% today.

As trust in scientists has fallen, distrust has grown: Roughly a quarter of Americans (27%) now say they have not too much or no confidence in scientists to act in the public’s best interests, up from 12% in April 2020.

Ratings of medical scientists mirror the trend seen in ratings of scientists generally. Read Chapter 1 of the report for a detailed analysis of this data.

How scientists compare with other prominent groups

Why does public trust in scientists matter?

People with greater trust in scientists are more likely to align their own beliefs and actions with expert guidance and understanding.

For instance, those with high trust are more likely to have gotten vaccines for COVID-19 and the flu. They are also more likely to say human activity contributes to climate change.

In addition, scientific leaders are concerned that differences in levels of trust by things like party identification, race and ethnicity, and education could contribute to the benefits of science being spread unevenly across society.

Americans’ Trust in Scientists Continue to Decline (CNN)
Picture: CNN

The Center survey of 8,842 U.S. adults conducted Sept. 25-Oct. 1, 2023, finds that, despite recent declines in ratings, scientists and medical scientists continue to be held in high regard compared with other prominent groups in society. Smaller shares of Americans express confidence in business leaders, religious leaders, journalists and elected officials to act in the public’s best interests. As with scientists, most of these groups have seen their ratings decline in recent years.

Americans have expressed low trust in federal government and other institutions, like Congress, for decades. And political polarization – the widening gap between the views of Republicans and Democrats across a broad range of issues and attitudes – has come to be a dominant feature of American political life.

Differences between Republicans and Democrats in ratings of scientists and science

Declining levels of trust in scientists and medical scientists have been particularly pronounced among Republicans and Republican-leaning independents over the past several years. In fact, nearly four-in-ten Republicans (38%) now say they have not too much or no confidence at all in scientists to act in the public’s best interests. This share is up dramatically from the 14% of Republicans who held this view in April 2020. Much of this shift occurred during the first two years of the pandemic and has persisted in more recent surveys.

image8Confidence in scientists has also moved lower among Democrats. The share of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents with a great deal of confidence in scientists – which initially rose in the pandemic’s first year – now stands at 37%, down from a high of 55% in November 2020. But unlike Republicans, a large majority of Democrats (86%) continue to express at least a fair amount of confidence in scientists to act in the public’s best interests. The overall differences in partisan views remain much more pronounced today than they were prior to the coronavirus outbreak.

One of the starkest illustrations of polarization in views of science is the drop in the share of Republicans who view the societal impact of science positively.

Fewer than half of Republicans (47%) now say that science has had a mostly positive effect on society. In 2019, 70% of Republicans said that science has had a mostly positive effect.

image9A majority of Democrats (69%) continue to say science has had a mostly positive effect on society, though this share is 8 points lower than it was in 2019.

Republicans were largely critical of the country’s response to the coronavirus outbreak. For instance, large shares said too little priority was given to respecting individuals’ choices, supporting businesses and economic activity, and meeting the needs of K-12 students. In addition, many Republicans felt that public health officials’ personal views had too much influence on policy and that officials were too quick to dismiss views that challenged their scientific understanding.

Government investments in science

Despite declines in ratings of scientists and science, a large majority of Americans continue to see government investments in science as worthwhile. And most place at least some importance on the United States being a world leader in scientific achievements.

image10About eight-in-ten Americans (78%) say government investments in scientific research are usually worthwhile for society. Far fewer (20%) think these investments are generally not worthwhile. Large majorities across demographic and education groups see government investments in scientific research as worthwhile, as do large majorities of both Democrats and Republicans.

In addition, 52% of Americans think it is very important for the U.S. to be a world leader in scientific achievements; an additional 37% think this is somewhat important. These shares are more or less unchanged since last year.

Gurdev Singh Hehar Appointed as President of IOCUSA’s Southwest Chapter

In a significant show of solidarity and commitment, the Indian Overseas Congress, USA (IOCUSA) conducted a landmark membership drive at the ‘Our Place Indian Cuisine’ in Dallas, Texas. The event, characterized by spirited discussions, united prominent community leaders and political figures in their vision for a stronger, more inclusive Indian community.

The drive was kick-started with a stirring address by Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of the IOCUSA. Mr. Gilzian’s message resonated deeply with the attendees, emphasizing the crucial need for active political participation in the upcoming elections in India.

He said, “Our engagement in the democratic process is essential to safeguarding the unity and progress of our motherland. Let us unite to ensure a future where diversity and harmony would triumph.”

Sam Pitroda, the Chairman of IOC, and a renowned innovator, joined the meeting through Zoom. He touched upon his connections to Dallas and the broader role of the Indian diaspora. “Our roots here in Dallas are just as important as our ties to India. By harnessing our collective strengths, we can significantly contribute to India’s journey towards modernization and inclusivity,” Pitroda said. He then reminded the audience of the pivotal role of the diaspora in shaping India’s future.

IOC USA established the Southwest Chapter and appointed Mr. Gurdev Singh Hehar as President. In his address, Mr. Gurdev Singh emphasized the significance of unity and collective efforts. He said, “Our strength lies in our diversity and ability to work together, transcending religious and cultural differences, towards a common goal – a thriving and united India, reaffirming the ethos of the IOC.”

Avi Dandiya, the Global Social Media Chief for the IOC, played a key role in the local coordination and setup of the event. His efforts in leveraging social media platforms greatly enhanced the membership drive and brought many community leaders to the event.

The membership drive by the Indian Overseas Congress in Dallas marks a new chapter in the annals of Indian diasporic engagement. It was an event that echoed the sentiments of unity, attention, and proactive participation, critical tenets in shaping a future that the Indian community across the globe aspires for.

Ms. Sophia Sharma, General Secretary of the IOCUSA, moderated the event.

The Indian Overseas Congress is a platform for Non-Resident Indians to participate actively India’s growth and development. It seeks to bridge the gap between the Indian diaspora and their homeland, fostering democratic principles and inclusive development. (www.iocusa.org)

Indian Overseas Congress, USA Appoints Mr. Minhaj Akhtar As The Working President, IOCUSA Midwest Region

The Indian Overseas Congress, USA (IOCUSA) proudly hosted a Membership Drive on 19th October 2023 at the Shalimar Banquet in Chicago, Illinois, where it appointed Mr. Minhaj Akhtar as the working President for the Midwest Region. This event echoed the organization’s continuous mission to galvanize the Indian diaspora toward active socio-political participation.

Indian Overseas Congress USA Appoints Mr Minhaj Akhtar As The Working President IOCUSA Midwest Region 3
Picture: Asian Media USA

The Membership Drive was a hub of insightful dialogues and vibrant discussions, reflecting the IOC, USA’s core tenets of democracy, inclusivity, and celebration of Indian heritage. Over the years, the organization has established a legacy of fostering dialogues between India and its overseas community that have significantly impacted policies and their proper implementation.

The event’s centerpiece was the keynote address by Mr. Sam Pitroda, a distinguished political and technology thought leader. Mr. Pitroda’s political acumen, reflected in his tenure as an advisor to former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and his instrumental role in India’s telecommunication revolution, aligned seamlessly with the event’s essence and the broader objectives of the IOC, USA.

Indian Overseas Congress USA Appoints Mr Minhaj Akhtar As The Working President IOCUSA Midwest Region 1
Picture: Asian Media USA

Mr. Pitroda said, ‘India is all about diversity, inclusion, love, democracy, and all these things are being attacked systematically under the current governance. Congress is an idea that fought for an independent India, and it’s under attack. It is time for us to raise our voices and preserve democracy.” Following his address, Mr. Pitroda engaged in an interactive session, addressing queries from the Indian diaspora present, further enriching the discourse.

The panel featured an array of distinguished and seasoned leaders within the IOC, USA, and the broader community. Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of IOCUSA, said in his address, “We are on our way to establishing a team in all the states of the USA and uniting the Indian Diaspora to support freedom and justice for everyone back in our motherland.”

Ms. Sophia Sharma General Secretary IOCUSA, was the moderator of the event. Mr. Gurpreet Singh, Chairman IOCUSA Haryana Chapter, Mr. Satheesan Nair, Executive Vice-President of the Kerala Chapter and Senior Leader of IOCUSA, and Mr. Iftekhar Sharif, a prominent community member, seasoned businessman, and philanthropist, were also present at the event.

This illustrious panel delved into pertinent discussions resonating with the event’s theme, further cementing IOC, USA’s credibility, and the collective endeavor towards a robust India-US partnership. With over 100 attendees, the event provided a rich networking platform and fostered a collaborative spirit amongst like-minded individuals. The Membership Drive was not just a means to augment IOCUSA’s membership but also became a celebration of the diaspora’s collective achievements and aspirations.

About Indian Overseas Congress, USA:

Indian Overseas Congress, USA, is a vanguard in fostering social, economic, and political engagement among the Indian diaspora in the United States. Through various initiatives and events, IOCUSA is committed to crafting a vibrant platform for dialogue and action that propels a stronger India-US alliance.

For those inspired by the event’s objectives and looking to join the Indian Overseas Congress, USA, you are encouraged to contact 646-732-5119 for more information on membership and upcoming events. (www.iocusa.org)

The Indian Diaspora’s ‘Indentured Route’ – And A ‘Lost’ Children’s Quest For Identity

Ironically, the forced migration also laid the seeds of a diaspora in countries where Indians of another generation looking for better economic opportunities would not have normally settled.

The Indian diaspora – estimated at 30 million and growing depending on how inclusive one makes it – has been the subject of much writing and discussion in recent times.  It is seen as an important source of  ‘soft power’ for India, and the one to leverage it politically and diplomatically has been none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who unfailingly includes an engagement with the diaspora in every country he visits where Indians have settled in substantial numbers. The Indian diaspora is a source of investment and support for the ruling dispensation, and large sections of the diaspora in turn idolizes Modi – he calls them “brand ambassadors” of the country  – and the mass adulation that he receives from New York to Sydney has been the envy of his hosts, whether in the United States to Australia.

The Indian Diaspora's 'Indentured Route'However, the diaspora is not just the affluent and well-settled Indians In the richer economies of the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, or Down Under who have been the subject of special reports in The Economist and other reputed international publications as a “powerful resource” for the nation. When talking or writing about the Indian diaspora and their experiences, a segment that is often lost sight of are the so-called ‘lost Indians’ – descendants of “more than 2,2 million indentured labor (who) were moved from India to more than 26 countries in various parts of the world, making it one greatest mass movements of India’s future Diaspora worldwide”.

Bhaswati Mukherjee, a former Indian diplomat who was Ambassador to UNESCO and the Netherlands and has studied this subject extensively, delves in her recently published book “The Indentured Route: A Relentless Quest for Identity”,  about how a few million Indians were shipped in the 19th and early 20th century as indentured or contract labour to work in British plantations across the world, from Suriname to South Africa, to Mauritius and the Reunion Islands; to Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean.

The Kalapani metaphor

This is a story that hasn’t been told in its entirety or the trials and tribulations of the shipped labour documented for posterity. “The journey of India’s children across the Kalapani, their suffering and humiliation at the hands of the colonizers and their relentless quest for identity cannot remain an untold narrative,” argues Mukherjee who chose to shine the light on what she calls “a forgotten part of our history” in which the British, adept at using transportation to distant shores as a form of punishment, came up with the system of indenture “as a substitute for slavery” after the British Parliament abolished slavery in 1833.

How the term Kalapani – literally meaning ‘dark waters’ – gained currency as a metaphor for the forbidding ocean whose crossing, it was believed, would not just bring them evil but make high-caste Indians lose their exalted status is itself a fascinating commentary on how the British played upon Indian religious sentiments and economic deprivation, which in many ways was their creation, to set one community against another in the process of crushing “a so-called subordinate culture”.

The penal act of transportation across the high seas and oceans as contract labour to run the sugar and coffee plantations of British, as well as Dutch and French colonies, that had lost African labour following the abolition of slavery was just not an act of crafty business and political manipulation but a cynical economic action that duped tens of thousands of poor Indian workers into believing that they were being given the choice of a better life which they could harness to better the indigent family conditions back home.

This thinking gets reinforced by a question from the Oxford History of the British Empire Companion Series quoted by Mukherjee that, in a bout of self-searching, wonders if  “It is important to consider whether the Indian indentured labour had been inveigled into a new system of slavery’.

Rainbow nations

Ironically, the forced migration also laid the seeds of a diaspora in countries where Indians of another generation looking for better economic opportunities would not have normally settled. “The movement of one-and-a-half million Indians across continents from the mid-nineteenth century was dictated by the demands of imperialism and finance capitalism,” noted Mukherjee, as the “descendants of the indentured built new rainbow nations in the erstwhile plantation colonies as free and independent states” to become the “protagonists of a hybrid culture, similar to India but also different.”

How Indian culture and traditions, in the form of festivals like Diwali, have not only taken roots in these countries, much to perhaps British chagrin, in the form of cross-cultural celebrations is perhaps illustrated in the nine-day Divali Nagar festival, a popular diaspora draw, that takes place in Trinidad and Tobago, where nearly 40 per cent of the 1.3 population of the twin islands is of Indian extraction.

At the recent inauguration of the 35th edition of the festival, Mayor Faaiq Mohammed of Chaguanas, Central Trinidad, pointed out that the National Council of Indian Culture, through the Divali Nagar festival,  “(had) brought cultural traditions of our ancestors, allowing our multi-cultural and multi-religious and multi-ethnic society to embrace Divali and what it represents as a national festival” in the Caribbean nation.

This is a meticulously researched book spanning continents that narrates the painful story of India’s earliest migrants who established new cultural roots that kept them emotionally connected to their native land and whose forefathers’ epic transoceanic journeys have now come to be acknowledged in the UN system as one of history’s greatest tragedies of human exploitation just as slavery had come to be accepted. (The author is a veteran editor and founder, South Asia Monitor. Views are personal. He can be contacted at [email protected])

Read more at: https://www.southasiamonitor.org/medley/indian-diasporas-indentured-route-and-lost-childrens-quest-identity

Diwali Celebrations Held At BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham

Diwali was celebrated with grandeur at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, featuring an Annakut with hundreds of food items, intricate rangoli designs, 2,700 diyas, and festive lights on Sunday, November 12, 2023.

The largest Hindu mandir in the USA, Akshardham is an iconic testament to Hindu art, architecture, and spirituality, offering profound insights into Hindu traditions and teachings.

Diwali Celebrations Held At BAPS Swaminarayan AkshardhamThe BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham drew thousands of worshippers throughout the day. There was a long line to take part in the Ceremony of Light, a practice of waving a lighted wick before the sacred image of God. The food symbolizes devotion.

“Families will come together to bake what they like. You’ll see cookies and traditional Indian sweets and delicacies. Because we celebrate the mountain of food, you’ll see many items stacked like a mountain,” said Viren Shah, who is among the many celebrating the festival.

Billions of people around the world are celebrating Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. The holiday is bringing people together across Central Illinois, too. The Hindu, Jain and Sikh faiths are the primary faiths that celebrate Diwali. The festivities span multiple days before and after the official date.

The holiday marks new beginnings for Hindus and a chance to enter their Lunar New Year with fortuitous blessings from the goddess of wealth. It’s their biggest celebration, and is akin to a mix of winter holidays and New Years.

As Indian immigrants have crossed oceans and borders for new countries, the holidays and traditions they brought with them have both endured and evolved with the next generation. Diwali – a festival with various meanings, histories and names depending on the region and religion observing it – is no exception.

Every corner of Akshardham invites everyone to embark on a transformative journey that guides them toward the radiant joy of the Divine. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham is a spiritual campus created by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

Over 12,500 people volunteered in the creation of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. Students, parents,Diwali Celebrations Held At BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham 3 professionals, and more, dedicated their time and effort—for two weeks, six months, two years, or even more than a decade—to make Akshardham a reality.

The volunteers came to help build the mandir but discovered transformative experiences. Following are a few stories highlighting the devotion and sacrifice of the volunteers excerpted from the book, People of Akshardham: Stories Beyond the Stones.

Akash Patel, a 39-year-old from Charlotte, North Carolina, reflects on his upbringing and the importance of leaving a meaningful legacy for his daughter. Despite facing financial challenges, Akash worked his way up the corporate ladder, eventually joining Ernst & Young. He decided to volunteer at Akshardham, a spiritual place, during a two-week vacation. This experience led him to realize that material wealth alone wasn’t enough to provide purpose and meaning. Inspired by the spiritual atmosphere, he and his wife, Vandana, made a life-changing decision to move to NJ and volunteer at Akshardham while raising their daughter, Prapti. Akash’s journey highlights the importance of imparting moral and spiritual values to the next generation, valuing inner peace, and leaving a lasting legacy beyond material wealth.

Harmiksha Patel, a 24-year-old registered nurse from Brampton, Ontario, lost her father, Snehal, to cancer in 2020. When presented with an opportunity to serve in the Akshardham construction project, she initially hesitated but ultimately chose to volunteer, as she felt that her dad would be so happy if he knew I was volunteering at Akshardham. For nearly a year, she served in the Akshardham’s inner sanctum, cleaning, treating, repairing, and grouting stones. Harmiksha worked with a sense of reverence that expanded over time. “Every stone, every part of this mandir is touched by God, and so are the people building it: these volunteers have done so much for my guru, and we are all connected because of him. Volunteering in Akshardham has lessened the gap between me and the people around me.” She wishes to bring this attitude home and learn to recognize the beauty in all people.

Yesha Shah, 27, of Skokie, Illinois, volunteered for three days in 2019 but when she returned to pharmacy school, she missed the fulfillment she had felt while volunteering. She took a 1.5-year leave to continue volunteering to be part of this once-in-alifetime opportunity. She served as co-lead of the rebar team. Inspired by the virtues of her teammates, Yesha strove to serve humbly, accept criticism positively, and develop patience. Reflecting on the impact of her time volunteering, Yesha said, “I used to get very easily hurt if someone pointed out my mistakes. Over the last year, I stopped dwelling so much on the external factors I can’t change and chose to focus on things that I can change in myself. This has helped me feel more at peace with myself.”

As a 10-year-old,Nilkanth Rao, 40, accompanied his father, Ramesh, to Kandla, Gujarat, where artisans carved stones for the BAPS mandir in London. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was visiting, and he addressed the artisans, which Nilkanth remembers vividly. Inspired by his father’s years of volunteering in mandir construction, Nilkanth began serving on the Akshardham site in 2012 and joined full-time in January 2022, taking a year’s sabbatical from his work as a manager at Accenture Federal Service. He weatherproofed, cut, clamped, placed, and repaired stones throughout the Akshardham campus. Nilkanthʼs volunteering has taught him to imbue all his actions with spirituality. “With the right sentiments, there is no real difference between physical service on site and devotion we offer in the mandir. Every stone we place, every stone we dip, is an offering to God.” (Courtesy: News India Times)

King Charles Marks 75th Birthday with Launch of ‘Coronation Food Project’ to Combat Hunger and Food Waste

Britain’s King Charles marked his 75th birthday on Tuesday, seizing the moment to launch a new initiative aimed at combatting food poverty and reducing the staggering amounts of discarded food. With a history of over five decades as an ardent advocate for environmental causes and a champion of a sustainable economy, the monarch officially introduced the ‘Coronation Food Project,’ a mission dedicated to alleviating hunger.

In an article penned for the “Big Issue,” a magazine typically sold by homeless individuals, Charles emphasized the gravity of the food crisis, stating, “Food need is as real and urgent a problem as food waste – and if a way could be found to bridge the gap between them, then it would address two problems in one.” The project highlights that 14 million people in Britain grapple with food insecurity. The king, known for his outspoken stance on social issues, lamented that “too many families and individuals are missing out on nutritious meals due to the cost of living pressures that have caused hardship for so many.”

In a heartfelt plea, Charles expressed his birthday wish, writing, “To mark my 75th birthday in this Coronation year, I could ask for no greater gift than that the Coronation Food Project creates a lasting legacy to help others – and help the planet.”

To kick off his birthday celebrations, Charles, accompanied by his wife Queen Camilla, visited a surplus food distribution center in central England. There, staff and volunteers serenaded the king with a spirited rendition of “Happy Birthday.” The day’s festivities extended beyond the distribution center, with traditional gun salutes echoing in London and across the country. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Charles’ eldest son and heir, Prince William, took to social media to convey their birthday wishes.

Despite reported estrangement, the BBC disclosed that Charles’ younger son, Prince Harry, would communicate with him by phone. In addition to the birthday commemorations, Charles had scheduled a reception on Tuesday to honor the contributions of nurses and midwives, marking 75 years of the National Health Service.

As the milestone birthday unfolded, the king’s commitment to addressing societal challenges remained at the forefront. The ‘Coronation Food Project’ emerged as a testament to Charles’ enduring dedication to fostering positive change. The initiative aims not only to provide immediate relief to those facing food insecurity but also to tackle the pervasive issue of food waste.

The project’s core philosophy, as articulated by the monarch, hinges on the belief that addressing both food need and food waste concurrently represents a comprehensive solution. Charles articulated this in his article for the “Big Issue,” stating, “Food need is as real and urgent a problem as food waste – and if a way could be found to bridge the gap between them, then it would address two problems in one.”

Highlighting the scale of the problem, the ‘Coronation Food Project’ emphasizes that 14 million people in Britain live with food insecurity. Charles, renowned for his advocacy on environmental issues, underscored the human impact of this crisis, noting that “too many families and individuals are missing out on nutritious meals due to the cost of living pressures that have caused hardship for so many.”

In a poignant plea for collective action, Charles used the occasion of his 75th birthday to express a deeply personal wish for the ‘Coronation Food Project’ to leave a lasting legacy. “To mark my 75th birthday in this Coronation year, I could ask for no greater gift than that the Coronation Food Project creates a lasting legacy to help others – and help the planet,” he wrote, signifying a desire for a positive and enduring impact on both societal well-being and the environment.

As part of the birthday celebrations, Charles and Queen Camilla visited a surplus food distribution center in central England, underscoring the tangible efforts behind the initiative. The visit was punctuated by a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” by staff and volunteers, symbolizing the collective spirit behind the ‘Coronation Food Project.’

The birthday festivities extended beyond the distribution center, with traditional gun salutes echoing in London and across the country. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Prince William, Charles’ eldest son and heir, joined the chorus of well-wishers, using social media platforms to convey their birthday greetings.

Despite reported familial estrangement, the BBC reported that Prince Harry, Charles’ younger son, would engage in a phone conversation with his father. This connection, albeit remote, underscored the significance of the occasion and the enduring familial ties.

In addition to the birthday celebrations, Charles had scheduled a reception on Tuesday to honor the invaluable contributions of nurses and midwives. This event formed part of a series of activities commemorating 75 years of the National Health Service, showcasing the king’s multifaceted commitment to societal well-being.

Britain’s King Charles celebrated his 75th birthday not only with traditional fanfare but also with a resolute commitment to addressing pressing societal issues. The launch of the ‘Coronation Food Project’ symbolizes his enduring dedication to combating food poverty and waste, encapsulating a vision for a more sustainable and equitable future. As the celebrations unfolded, Charles’ words echoed, emphasizing the need for collective action to bridge the gap between food need and waste, ultimately creating a positive and lasting legacy for generations to come.

Rotary Club of North Shore District 7255, NY Installed

It was a special evening at Antuns’ on October 29, 2023. The Installation of Newly formed Rotary Charter the Rotary Club of North Shore, which was initiated by the Rotary Club of Hicksville was held at the Antun’s, LI. Rotary District 7255, District Governor Tom Crowley officiated the Oath ceremony of the Rotary Club of North Shore President Dr. Mamta Shaha along with her slate of officers, board members, and founding members to serve the club for fiscal year 2023-24.

Rotary Club of North Shore District 7255 NY Installed 1Dr. Mamta Shaha thanked all members for putting their trust in as their Charter president. She talked about the importance of the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” and added that Honesty, Integrity, and Transparency will be the guiding principles for this club. She mentioned the work of club for the year will be focused on 1) Feeding Hungry 2) Protecting the Environment and 3) Mentoring and education of children.

She thanked Rotary district Governor Tom Crowley and his team. Special thanks was given to the host club-Rotary Club of Hicksville South, the charter President and Past District Governor Mr. Kamalesh Mehta, current President Mr. Mizan Rehman for their help through the process.

Nilima Madan- Past President of the Rotary Club of Hicksville South, was appreciated for her vision and leadership. She is also the Stewardship Chair of District 7255. She had the vision of starting a new club which came to fruition on October 29,2023. She has been a great mentor and guide to all of us throughout the process.

At this occasion, Indian Consul General Mr. Randhir Jaiswal was conferred upon the honorary membership ofRotary Club of North Shore District 7255 NY Installed 3 Rotary Club of North Shore. The Honorable Consul General was not able to attend. He will be presented with the plaque soon.

Naveen Shah of the Navika Capital Inc. was honored with a plaque for his leadership and philanthropy in the community. Nilima Madan was honored with a plaque for her mentorship and guidance.

Prominent among  those who were in attendance included:  North Hempstead Supervisor, Jennifer S. DeSena; North Hempstead Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava ; Nassau County Minority Affairs Executive Director, Lionel Chitty; Town of Oyster Bay Asian American Affairs Director. They all presented the Citations to the Rotary Club of North Shore and the awardees.

All the members of the Club celebrated by cutting a cake. The beautiful evening concluded with musical entertainment and dinner.

Diverse Cultures Unite Under the Glow of Lights At Aurora Diwali Celebration

Diwali, the esteemed “Festival of Lights” is a time honored in celebration of hope, light, and unity for millions of people of Indian origin around the world. In recent years, the City of Aurora in Illinois has become home to a remarkable Diwali celebration drawing a few thousand visitors, thanks to the Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board (IACOAB).

This annual event, which was organized at Waubonsie Valley High School, Aurora, IL on October 28, 2023, has grown in significance, transcending cultural boundaries and uniting the community in a radiant display of togetherness. Supported wholeheartedly by Mayor Richard Irvin office of the City of Aurora and local volunteers, this event has reached new heights. The IACOAB Board members commenced the festivities with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, a symbol of hope and new beginnings. Sunil Patel, the Chairman of the Board, could not conceal his excitement at the remarkable turnout. He credited the event's success to the unwavering support of his board members, volunteers, and the Mayor office and expressed his gratitude to Alderwoman Sweta Baid for helping the team with the amazing display of Rangoli, a traditional Indian art form made with sand.

Diverse Cultures Unite Under the Glow of Lights At Aurora Diwali Celebration
Picture: Asian Media USA

Mayor Richard Irvin has consistently been a great supporter of the board and brought an electrifying energy to the crowd with his inspiring speech. The mayor officially proclaimed Diwali, a festival of lights, as a day of tolerance, compassion, and the triumph of good over evil. This proclamation resonates with the American and Aurora Spirit, which also celebrates these values.

The highlight of the event was the outstanding cultural program, which brought together Indian dancers and performers for a night of sensational entertainment. While the majority of the audience was of Indian descent, the event warmly welcomed people from all backgrounds who appreciated the vibrant Bollywood dances and delicious Indian food that was served.

The City of Aurora  Diwali celebration is a community event that has brought together local participants to learn about the services provided by small businesses and local non-profit organizations. The participation of non-profit organizations such as Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USAh, ISKON, Indian Nurses Education and Welfare Fund and Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya has helped to raise awareness of Indian culture and the community’s efforts to preserve their traditions and culture.

“This year, we saw great involvement from different vendors who offered unique merchandise not readily available in local shops, along with a wide array of delectable food options” Board members Nitin Fuldore and Ghosia Wajid.

Vice Chair Nadia Kanhai expressed her sincere gratitude to the local participants, stating that the event would not have been a success without their presence. She also extended an invitation to sponsors and merchants to join the event again next year. As the radiant lights of Diwali continue to shine brightly in Aurora, they remind us of the enduring power of community and the timeless significance of this beautiful festival. The future of the Diwali celebration in Aurora looks even brighter, casting a warm and welcoming glow over all who attend.

During Diwali, “Dispel the Inner Darkness through the Light of Knowledge”

Gopi Diwali at Times Square, presented by KIA, lit up the heart of Times Square, celebrating cultural diversity, equity, and inclusion. Aligned with the NYC Diwali school holiday, the event transcended the traditional symbolism of Diwali, focusing on illuminating the inner self and fostering unity, enlightenment, love, peace, and harmony for a more peaceful world.

“The festival aimed to unite people from diverse backgrounds, focusing on education to foster unity and diversity, prioritized including children and teaching them to be responsible citizens, compassionate individuals, and good neighbors.”, said the Founder of Diwali at Times Square, Neeta Bhasin.

One of the evening’s highlights was the grand Diya (lamp) lighting on stage, synchronized with the countdown on the One Times Square tower. The ceremony drew distinguished guests, including Eric Adams, NYC Mayor, Senator Chuck Schumer, Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi, Consul General of India Randhir Jaiswal, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, Justice Karen Gopee, and various esteemed dignitaries.

During Diwali Dispel the Inner Darkness through the Light of Knowledge 2The Gopi, a California-based family-run dairy company, emphasized the universal message of peace and love through Diwali. Annie Keropian-Dilsizian, Gopi’s Marketing Manager, highlighted the event’s historic significance. Festival goers received complimentary full-size product samples, including Gopi Lassi and Paneer, to add joy and tradition to their Diwali celebrations.

Steven Center, COO & EVP of Kia America, expressed “Diwali’s core values of balance, harmony, and joy are mutual guiding principles of Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity, that’s why Kia is proud to participate as presenting sponsor of Diwali in Times Square and recognize the festival of lights.”

The festival showcased an awards segment, honoring outstanding individuals: Neera Tanden the recipient of the “Woman of the Year in Public Service” US Domestic Policy Council Director, expressed gratitude “Celebrating Diwali in Times Square was a pleasure. Thanks to Neeta Bhasin and the Board for recognizing my commitment to improving lives. This event honored the invaluable contributions of the Indian American community, enriching and strengthening America”.

Procter and Gamble COO, Shailesh Jejurikar, was honored with the “Man of the Year in Private Service” Award said “I am humbled and honored by this recognition. As I reflect on my career, I am inspired by Procter & Gamble’s commitment since its founding 185 years ago to improve consumers’ everyday lives. This dedication fuels my determination to create a meaningful and lasting impact.”

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar who played a pivotal role in establishing the NYC School Holiday and strong support for Diwali at Times Square was honored with the ‘Samman Award’.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams declared October 28th as Diwali Day.

Senator Chuck Schumer who never misses Diwali at Times, loves the Indian community. In support of the community Senator said ‘I wrote laws to allow more Indians to come to America and New York. The more Indians are in New York, the better New York is. I will change the law to make it more so”.

Randhir Jaiswal, the Consul General of India, NY stated, “As we celebrate Diwali in Times Square, we mark not just a festival but a milestone in the recognition of our culture, as Diwali becomes a public holiday in schools.”

The “Light Up Concert” dazzled with Bollywood star Mika Singh, Indian American sensation Shuba, and local talents, making it a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and impactful individuals.

A R Helping Hands Diwali at Times Square is an annual event that celebrates Diwali with grandeur, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to embrace unity in diversity, honor outstanding achievements, and celebrate the festival of lights.

We are honored to receive a message from Prime Minister Modi, extending heartfelt greetings for the joyous occasion of Diwali.

New England Choice Awards Gala In Boston Celebrates Accomplishments of Indian Americans

The New England Choice Awards, a prestigious event held annually celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of the Indian American community was held on Sunday, November 5th, 2023 in Boston, MA.

Organized by the non-profit INE MultMedia, Inc., in collaboration with INDIA New England News, New England Choice Awards gala was attended by, among others, Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Guest of Honor Pillar VC Founder and CEO Jamie Goldstein.

Over 400 entrepreneurs, corporate executives, philanthropists, educators and community leaders gathered in the packed Grand Ballroom of the Burlington Marriott to honor New England Choice Awards winners of 2023 and be part of the celebration of the fast growing Indian American community.

New England Choice Awards Gala In Boston Celebrates Accomplishments of Indian Americans (Cocoon Media) 2
Picture: Cocoon Media

This year’s NECA award recipients were: Ash Ashutosh, a serial tech entrepreneur and Global Director of Solution Sales at Google; Pranav Ghatraju, a rising Tabla player and New Product Development Engineer at Entegris; Dr. Salil Midha, MD, Cardiology Chief at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital;Priyamvada Natarajan, a Physics Professor and Theoretical Astrophysicist at Yale University, known for her work in mapping dark matter and dark energy; Trupti Patel, an immigration attorney and Saheli Advisory Board Member; Phil Scarff, a Saxophonist, Composer and Founder of world-jazz ensemble Natraj; and the India Society of Worcester, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year as a vibrant non-profit community organization.

Raj Sharma, Managing Director of Wealth Management and Head of The Sharma Group, a high-end boutique within Merrill Lynch’s Private Banking and Investment Group, received the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award.

“For centuries, Boston has been the threshold to New England—our nation’s gateway to and for the rest of the world. And for centuries, we’ve benefited from the hearts and minds—the courage and vision—of those who have made our city home,” said Mayor Wu.

“This room, and the incredible individuals and organizations being honored here tonight, are a testament to the possibilities we unlock when we empower our communities to thrive. And I know that India New England shares that belief and our mission: To ensure that the Indian community here in New England is informed by your thoughtful coverage of global-to-local events; that your stories are centered and celebrated.”

Mayor Wu, congratulated all the winners Sunday night and shared her own story of growing up as a daughter of immigrant parents.

“Growing up as the daughter of immigrants from Taiwan, they always told me to get a stable job, that paid well, and wouldn’t get me into trouble. So you can imagine how they felt when I told them I’d decided to go into politics. But their perspective was colored by their experience as immigrants,” said Mayor Wu. “Never feeling fully welcomed, or valued; and when attention was directed their way it was rarely positive. So the idea that any of us could grow up to be leaders in a community where they didn’t even feel like we belonged wasn’t on their radar. The best thing we could do was keep our heads down and not make waves—blend in.”

Mayor Wu also thanked Dr. Manju Sheth and Upendra Mishra for creating this multimedia platform to empower the community. “I want to thank Upendra, and Dr. Manju, for your leadership here at India New England because standing out was dangerous. We didn’t have examples of leaders in government, the media, or business to look up to—or if we did, we didn’t know about them. Which is why the work that India New England does is so important,” said Mayor Wu.

“Because for every one of our stories that are told—for every event where we are celebrated for holding our heads high and making waves…The more we empower our young people to recognize that they can do and be whatever they want. So I want to take a minute to not only congratulate all of tonight’s awardees, but thank you for opening the door for the next generation: Ash, Pranav, Dr. Salil, Priyamvada, Trupti, Phil, everyone at the India Society of Worcester. And to Raj Sharma—who I am honored to be presented with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Thank you!”

New England Choice Awards Gala In Boston Celebrates Accomplishments of Indian Americans (Cocoon Media)
Picture: Cocoon Media

Dr. Manju Sheth congratulated all the winners and thanked attendees and NECA supporters and sponsors. “Our goal at NECA Awards is to always outdo the previous year show and this was no exception,” said Dr. Sheth.  “The fun and excitement lies in raising the bar every year. It is only possible due to the support of an incredible team and the love and support that we get from the community . I am so happy and grateful for the incredible success of the show this year.”

Upendra Mishra welcomed everyone in his opening remarks and said that there was only goal of the evening: to share and celebrate success and inspire and get inspired by fellow leaders and pioneers of the community.

“Every year, after winners are selected by an independent committee of judges, we send them a set of questions, and eagerly wait for their answers,” said Mr. Mishra. “This year, my favorite questions were: If life gives you another chance, what will you do? And the second one was: what does success mean to you?”

All the winners had different definitions of success, but the core messages were the same: following their dreams and their passion, Mr. Mishra said. “For some, it is internal happiness, good health, a great family and a complete satisfaction with what one has achieved. Some say success is all about achieving peace of mind and personal fulfillment,” added Mr. Mishra. “And some said success is deeply personal, and everyone needs to craft their own definitions and keep refining them as they learn and grow in life. The definition of success evolves over time.”

The 2023 New England Choice Awards 2023 Committee consisted of Anu Chitrapu, Upendra Mishra, Mandy Pant, Anupendra Sharma, Manju Sheth and Aditi Taylor. The judging committee consisted of: Anu Chitrapu, Senior Vice President, Bank of America; Rohit Mahajan, Managing Partner, BigR.io; Girish Mehta, Founder, Indian Circle for Caring USA; Upendra Mishra, Publisher, INDIA New England News and Co-Founder of IneMultimedia and New England Choice Awards; Zenobia Moochhala, CEO, Sittercity & Co-Founder, Care.com; Deepti Nijhawan, Director, India Initiatives, Boston University Global Programs; Mandy Pant, Lead Technologist, Design Engineering Group at Intel; Jasmine Shah, Founder, Aangikam Dance Academy; Anupendra Sharma, CEO, AXLMED, Dr. Manju Sheth, MD, Co-founder, INE MultiMedia, Women Who Win, NECA and Physician at Harvard Vanguard / Atrius Health; Venkat Srinivasan, Founder and Managing Director of Innospark Ventures; Madhu Sudan, Gordon McKay Professor of Computer Science at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences; and Aditi Taylor, Chief Risk Officer, MFS Investment Management.

Mouli Pal, an accomplished Odissi dance artist, choreographer and cultural ambassador, and recording artist Shraddha Agrawal provided the entertainment at the gala. NECA Sponsors included Atrius Health, Leader Bank, The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission, IndUS Business Journal, Jay Patel, Women Who Win and Gourmet India. Community sponsors and supporters were, Cocoon Media, TaranOm Creations, SRAVEO, Boston Sound & Light Company, and Fotu Duniya.

ITServe Alliance’s Highly Successful Synergy 2023 Sets the Path for a Brighter Future

(November 9th, 2023: Atlantic City, NJ) Networking, learning, and sharing of knowledge, great and highly acclaimed speakers, insightful workshops, collaborating with one another, strengthening bonds, celebrating one’s achievements and accomplishments, cultural and fun events, awards ceremony, showcasing of business booths and products, and delicious and multi-ethnic cuisine, and attended by over 2,200 members of ITServe Alliance, who are small and medium size companies of Information Technology were only some of the highlights of ITServe Alliance’s flagship Synergy 2023 held from October 26th to 27th, 2023 at the popular Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City, NJ.

In his presidential address, Vinay K. Mahajan, National President of ITServe Alliance, welcomed the members, leaders, chapter presidents, sponsors, and volunteers to Synergy 2023 and expressed his “sincere gratitude for your unwavering commitment, and dedication, and for investing your time and energy and resources. You are the backbone of our organization, and your unwavering commitment is what propels us forward.”

Describing the mission of ITServe Mahajan said, “We are the voice representing the interests of small and medium scale enterprises of IT industry, protecting our members’ interests. We give back to the community and invest in startups, which is to help the United States maintain its leadership in innovation and technology. It is about coming together, collaborating, and liberating our collective strength. It is about finding synergy, not only within our own businesses but also across our entire community.”

Vinodbabu Uppu, Governing Board Chair of ITServe said, “Synergy 2023 is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy 2023 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

Venu Sangani, Director of Synergy 2023 said, “As we gather here, let’s remember that our unity as a community is our strength. I took on this leadership role, an opportunity, driven with a single objective: to help at the end of the conference, each attendee departs with concrete insight to grow their business to the next level. Because in all of you here today, there is both gratitude and a deep sense of accomplishment, knowing our collective vision is alive and thriving.”

Sangani, who led a dedicated and visionary team organizing this historic event said, “Synergy 2023 is our landmark flagship gathering. The essence of synergy lies not only very knowledge exchange but inspiring one another. Let the success stories of fellow entrepreneurs ignite your ambitions, be it scaling your business to the next level, diversifying investments or starting new territories. Let’s make the most of Synergy.”

Jagadish Mosali, President-Elect of ITServe said, “Hope everyone at our flagship event has enjoyed Synergy 2023. Some of you know and some might not know the countless amount of time our “Volunteer CEOs” from the Synergy Team as well as the Board have spent to make the event successful as you have seen. My deepest appreciation to both Sung Hero’s as well as  the “Unsung Heroes. Thank you all for your service and commitment to the organization and giving back to the community.”

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, the Chief Guest at Synergy 2023 delivered the Keynote Address during an interactive session with ITServe members on October 27th evening. Ms. Clinton, the 67th Secretary of State of the United States has dedicated over four decades in public service as an advocate, attorney, First Lady, and US Senator.

During a candid “Fireside Chat” Secretary Clinton shared with the audience very candidly about her private life, growing up as a child, her marriage to Bill Clinton, struggles in managing careers as a daughter, wife, mother, and a public figure holding numerous important positions locally, nationally and internationally.

Secretary Clinton praised the contributions and accomplishments of the fast-growing and influential ITServe Alliance members. She said, “I’m so proud of the many accomplishments of the Diaspora in the United States. I want to thank you and commend you for your extraordinary contributions to the nation.  I am so impressed by the many contributions you’ve made, in addition to building your businesses and providing employment for people.”

Secretary Clinton urged the ITServe member community “to continue to be involved in your communities, to be members of civic clubs, volunteer groups and take part in American society in every way possible, and also decide if you so may choose to become an American citizen. And for those of you who have children, who are American citizens, guide them to be very active. Not just getting their education or being a successful person economically but being involved in civic life. There’s a lot to it. I know you are good role models for people in many parts of our country. So, I am very grateful for the many contributions that you are making and will make in the future.”

Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media spoke about “Leadership Lessons: The Stunning Parallels Between Great Leaders of the World and Today’s Top Business Leaders.” He said, “You have to do things even if you feel you’re not fully ready to do it. The next year or two will be very severe. But also keep in mind that enormous positive changes are coming. There will be in 2025, after the elections, with your help a new immigration law on H1 B Visas, virtually unlimited to meet the needs of a growing economy.” Giving hope in this world of wars, Forbes pointed to areas of hope. “We saw it in the meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Modi weeks ago. These forces are coming together to make sure there is peace in the world.”

Phaneesh Murthy, Founder & CEO of Primentor addressed the audience with his insightful talk on, “Strategies for Scaling and Sustaining a Successful IT Company from One to 100 Million Plus” The keynote address by Zack Kass, Technology Futurist, and Generative AI Solutions Specialist focused on: “AI for Small Business Success: Navigating the Future of Entrepreneurship.”

Ashish Agarwal from Turbo Start, DVC led the Startup Cube Panel on “GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups.”  Post Lunch, a Financial Panel Discussion explored “Alternative Investments for Diversified Business Portfolios and Funding Solutions for Diversified Growth.” The Breakout Session in the Afternoon was about: “Mastering the Art of Effective Recruiting in the Staffing Industry” by Barbara Bruno.

“State, County, City, High-Ed & Federal Government Contracting: Opportunities & Challenges” was yet another important topic at the Breakout Session in the afternoon and was led by Nazeera Dawood, CEO of Vendorship.net. The M & A Panel Discussion deliberated on, “Driving Growth and Value Through Strategic M&A: Opportunities and Challenges: Accelerating Business Expansion.”

Another interesting Breakout Session on the first day was about, “Increase Cash Flow $$$ and Collect Bad Debt,” led by Douglas Fuchs at Goldman, Evans & Trammell LLC.

Kevin O’Leary, a Venture Capitalist and Star of ABC’s Shark Tank delivered the Evening keynote address on: “The Path to Profit: Strategies for Building a Successful Business.” Through specific portrayals from his popular Shark Tank, his insightful address to the loud applause from the crowd referred to successful business strategies to enhance business profits.

During the Gala ITServe honored the Grand Sponsors: Four Oaks Insurance and TrackEx, as well as the Platinum Sponsors of Synergy 2023: AG FinTax, BBI Law Group, Ceipal, Imagility, Oorwin, Q 1 Technologies, SOMIREDDY Law, Tech Insurance Agency, and Vitel Global were honored for their generous support to ITServe Alliance and its Synergy 2023. In addition, 20 Platinum Members of ITServe were honored during the Gala with Mementos.

The morning of October 27th began with the keynote address on “Navigating the Financial Crises and Regulatory Landscape: Lessons Learned and Insights for IT Staffing Company Owners” by Sheila Bair, Former FDIC Chair.

Other sessions in the morning included a Startup Cube Finals on GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups, which Ashish Agarwal, Turbo Start, DVC led. The Immigration Panel Discussion focused on “Navigating Immigration Challenges and Policies.” The CXO Panel focused on “The Evolving Role of IOs and CTOs in AI and ChatGPT Powered Digital Transformation.” Other panel discussions addressed issues related to “Contracts And Litigations,” and “Direct Client Engagement in the World of Contingent Workforce.”

A Special Guest Session at Synergy was a “Dialogue with Yuvraj Singh,” a highly popular international Cricketer, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist. Synergy 2023 will conclude with a Live Musical Concert by Bollywood Playback Singer and Filmfare Awardee Kanika Kapoor.

During Synergy 2023, ITServe honored high-achieving Entrepreneurs with Leadership Awards. ITServe Alliance recognized and honored companies that have demonstrated exceptional growth and success during a specific period. The ITServe Fastest Growing Company Awards were a testament to the impact of businesses that embrace innovation and strive for excellence.

Ashok Dandamudi, PR Director for ITServe said, “Synergy 2023 offered participants a platform to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staffing and Technology.

Amar Varada, Chair of Synergy 2023 said, “Synergy 2023 had prominent speakers, and valuable sponsorships, and helped grow a community network of industry professionals across the country. We are grateful to the unwavering support of our members, volunteers, and sponsors, whose collective efforts made this event a memorable one for all.”

Anil Atyam, Chair of Speakers for Synergy 2023 emphasized the curated lineup of speakers and panels. “We are thrilled to have a diverse and esteemed set of speakers for this year’s conference. From policymakers, and technology leaders to industry innovators, our speakers are pivotal in shaping the discussions and providing invaluable insights that can be immediately applied in various sectors of the IT industry.”

As a participant at Synergy put it, “Synergy 2023 an incredible experience, and I feel so grateful to have been a part of it. The energy and enthusiasm that you brought to the event were truly inspiring, and I came away with a wealth of knowledge and new connections. Once again, thank you for all of your hard work in putting together such a fantastic event.”

With cultural events, music, dance, and sumptuous food, in addition to all the learning and sharing of knowledge, Synergy 2023 provided actionable insights and strategies that companies can directly implement, serving as a catalyst for taking businesses to the next level. Beyond being an arena for networking and knowledge sharing, Synergy 2023 has proved to be a veritable marketplace for ideas and innovations.

Led by an amazing, energetic, and inspiring leadership, ITServe is a fully voluntary organization, where its members and leaders dedicate their valuable time and resources, working selflessly to strengthen the organization and its mission to give back to the larger society. ITServe’s core leadership consists of: Vinodbabu Uppu, Governing Board Chair; Vinay Mahajan, President; Jagadeesh Mosali, President-Elect; Anju Vallabhaneni, Secretary; Mahesh Sake, Treasurer; Ravi K. Komatireddy, Joint Secretary; Sunil Savili, Joint Treasurer. The Governing Board Members include Vinodbabu Uppu, Governing Board Chair; Shashidhar Devireddy, National President 2016; Gopi Kandukuri, National President 2018; Amar Varada, Synergy Chair 2023, & National President 2020; Raghu Chittimalla, National President 2021; Devender Aerrabolu, National President 2022; and, Vinay Mahajan, current National President.

In addition to the 21 ITServe Chapter Presidents across the United States and the dozens of various Committee Chairs, the Executive Board of Directors of ITSeve, who play a critical role in enhancing the mission and vision of ITServe Alliance include: Manish Mehra, Director Chapter Relations; Samba Movva, Director-Corporate Social Responsibility; Srikanth Dasugari, Director-Membership; Ram Nandyala, Director-Benefits & New Chapters Launch; Siva Moopanar, Director-Political Action Committee; Ashok Dandamudi, Director – Public Relations  & Media; Omprakash Nakka. Director- Products & Startups; Dasarath Kunapaneni, Director – Sponsorship; Venu Sangani, Director – Synergy; Vinay Parachuri, Director – Bylaws; and, Anil Atyam, Director – Technology.

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country. For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

ITServe’s Flagship Synergy 2023 Held In Atlantic City

(November 1st, 2023: Atlantic City, NJ) Networking, learning and sharing of knowledge, great and hignly acclaimed speakers, insightful workshops, collaborating with one another, strengthening bonds, celebrating one’s achievements and accomplishments, cultural and fun events, awards ceremony, showcasing of business booths and products, and delicious and multi-ethnic cuisine, and attended by over 2,200 members of ITServe Alliance, who are small and medium size companies of Information Technology were only some of the highlights of ItServe Alliance’s flagship Synergy 2023 held from October 26th to 27th, 2023 at the popular Harrahs Resport in Atlantic City, NJ.

In his Presidential address, Vinay K. Mahajan, National President of ITServe Alliance, welcomed the members, leaders, chapter presidents, sponsors, and volunteers to Synergy 2023 and expressed his “sincere gratitude for your unwavering commitment, and dedication, and for investing your time and energy and resources. You are the backbone of our organization, and your unwavering commitment is what propels us forward.”

Describing the mission of ITServe Mr. Mahajan said, “We are the voice represent the interests of small and medium scale enterprises of IT industry, protecting our members’ interests. We give back to the community, and invest in startups, which is to help the United States maintain the leadership in innovation and technology. It is about coming together, collaborating and liberating our collective strength. It is about finding synergy, not only within our own businesses but also across our entire community.”

Venu Sangani, Director of Synergy 2023 said, “As we gather here, let’s remember that our unity as a community is our strength. I took on this leadership role, an opportunity, driven with a single objective: to help at the end of the conference, each attendee departs with concrete insight to grow their business to the next level. Because in all of you here today, there is both gratitude and deep sense of accomplishment, knowing our collective vision is alive and thriving.”

Sanghani, who led a dedicated and visionary team organizing this historic event said, “Synergy 2023 is our landmark flagship gathering. The essence of it so synergy lies not only very knowledge exchange, but inspiring one another. Let the success stories of fellow entrepreneurs ignite your ambitions, be it scaling your business to the next level, or diversifying investments or starting new territories. Let’s make the most of Synergy.”

Vinodbabu Uppu, Governing Board Chair of ITServe said, “Synergy 2023 is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy 2023 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

Jagadish Modsali, President-Elect of ITServe said, “Hope everyone at our flagship event has enjoyed Synergy 2023. Some of you know and some might not know the countless amount of time our “Volunteer CEOs” from Synergy Team as well as the Board have spent to make the event successful as you have seen. My deepest appreciation to both Sung Hero’s as well as  the “Unsung Heroes.”. Thank you all for your service and commitment to the organization and giving back to community.”

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, the Chief Guest at Synergy 2023 delivered the Keynote Address during an interactive session with ITServe members on October 27th evening. Ms. Clinton, the 67th Secretary of State of the United States has dedicated over four decades in public service as an advocate, attorney, First Lady, and US Senator.

During a candid “Fireside Chat” Secretary Clinton shared with the audience very candidly about her private life, growing up as a child, her marriage to Bill Clinton, struggles in managing careers as a daughter, wife, mother, and a public figure holding numerous important positions locally, nationally and internationally.

Secretary Clinton praised the contributions and accomplishments of the fast-growing Indian Americans. She said, “I’m so proud of the many accomplishments of the Indian diaspora in the United States. I really want to thank you and commend you for the extraordinary contributions to the nation.  I was so impressed by the many contributions you’ve made, in addition to building your businesses and providing employment for people.:

Secretary Clinton urged the Indian Diaspora “to continue to be involved in your communities,to be members of civic clubs. volunteer groups, and really take part in American society in every way possible, and also to make the decision if you so choose, to become an American citizen and as you wish to do. And for those of you who are the children, who are American citizens, guide them to be very active. Not just getting their education or being a successful person economically, but to be involved in things. There’s a lot to it. So, I think that the Indian diaspora, you know are good role models for people in many parts of our country. So, I personally am very grateful for the many contributions that you are making and will make in the future.”

Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Forbes Media spoke about “Leadership Lessons: The Stunning Parallels Between Great Leaders of the World and Today’s Top Business Leaders.” He said, “You have to do things even if you feel you’re not fully ready to do it. The next year or two will be very severe. But also keep in mind that enormous positive changes are coming. There will be in 2025, after the elections, with your help a new immigration law on H1 B Visas, virtually unlimited to meet the needs of a growing economy.” Giving hope in this world of wars, Forbes pointed to areas of hope. “We saw it in the meeting between President Biden, Prime Minister Modi weeks ago. These forces are coming together to make sure there is peace in the world.”

Phaneesh Murthy, Founder & CEO of Primentor addressed the audience with his insightful talk on, “Strategies for Scaling and Sustaining a Successful IT Company from One to 100 Million Plus” The keynote address by Zack Kass, Technology Futurist, and Generative AI Solutions Specialist focused on: “AI for Small Business Success: Navigating the Future of Entrepreneurship.”

Ashish Agarwal from Turbo Start, DVC led the Startup Cube Panel on “GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups.”  Post Lunch, a Financial Panel Discussion explored “Alternative Investments for Diversified Business Portfolios and Funding Solutions for Diversified Growth.” The Breakout Session in the Afternoon was about: “Mastering the Art of Effective Recruiting in the Staffing Industry” by Barbara Bruno.

“State, County, City, High-Ed & Federal Government Contracting: Opportunities & Challenges” was yet another important topic at the Breakout Session in the afternoon and was led by Nazeera Dawood, CEO of Vendorship.net. The M & A Panel Discussion deliberated on, “Driving Growth and Value Through Strategic M&A: Opportunities and Challenges: Accelerating Business Expansion.” Another interesting Breakout Session on the first day was about, “Increase Cash Flow $$$ and Collect Bad Debt,” led by Douglas Fuchs at Goldman, Evans & Trammell LLC.

Kevin O’Leary, a Venture Capitalist, Star of ABC’s Shark Tank delivered the Evening keynote address on: “The Path to Profit: Strategies for Building a Successful Business.” Through specific portrayals from his popular Shark Tank, his insightful address to the loud applauses from the crowd referred to successful business strategies to enhance business profits.

During the evening Gala Grand Sponsors: Four Oaks Insurance and TrackEx as well as the Platinum Sponsors of Synergy 2023: AG Fintax, BBI Law Group, Ceipa; Corp, Imagility, Oorwin, Q 1  Technologies, Somireddy Law, T I A Tech Insurance Agency, and Vitel Global were honored for their generous support to ITSereve Alliance.

As a participant at Synergy put it, “Synergy 2023 an incredible experience, and I feel so grateful to have been a part of it. The energy and enthusiasm that you brought to the event were truly inspiring, and I came away with a wealth of knowledge and new connections. Once again, thank you for all of your hard work in putting together such a fantastic event.”

With cultural events, music and dance, sumptuous food, in addition to all the learning and sharing of knowledge, Synergy 2023 provided actionable insights and strategies that companies can directly implement, serving as a catalyst for taking businesses to the next level. Beyond being an arena for networking and knowledge sharing, Synergy 2023 has proved to be a veritable marketplace for ideas and innovations.

“Synergy 2023 had prominent speakers, and valuable sponsorships, and helped grow a community network of industry professionals across the country,” said Amar Varada, Chair of Synergy 2023.

Anil Atyam, Chair of Speakers for Synergy 2023 emphasized the curated lineup of speakers and panels. “We are thrilled to have a diverse and esteemed set of speakers for this year’s conference. From policymakers, and technology leaders to industry innovators, our speakers are pivotal in shaping the discussions and providing invaluable insights that can be immediately applied in various sectors of the IT industry.”

Ashok Dandamudi, PR Director for ITServe said, “Synergy 2023 offered participants with a platform to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staffing and Technology.

The morning of October 27th began with the keynote address on “Navigating the Financial Crises and Regulatory Landscape: Lessons Learned and Insights for IT Staffing Company Owners” by Sheila Bair, Former FDIC Chair.

Other sessions in the morning included a Startup Cube Finals on GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups, which were led by Ashish Agarwal, Turbo Start, DVC. The Immigration Panel Discussion focused on “Navigating Immigration Challenges and Policies.” The CXO Panel’s focused on “The Evolving Role of IOs and CTOs in AI and ChatGPT Powered Digital Transformation.” Other panel discussions addressed issues related to “Contracts And Litigations,” and “Direct Client Engagement in the World of Contingent Workforce.”

A Special Guest Session at Synergy was a “Dialogue with Yuvraj Singh,” a highly popular international Cricketer, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist. Synergy 2023 will conclude with a Live Musical Concert by Bollywood Playback Singer and Filmfare Awardee Kanika Kapoor.

During Synergy 2023, ITServe honored high achieving Entrepreneurs with Leadership Awards. ITServe Alliance recognized and honored companies that have demonstrated exceptional growth and success during a specific period. The ITServe Fastest Growing Company Awards were a testament to the impact of businesses that embrace innovation and strive for excellence.

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country. For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

The Kerala Center Honors 8 Distinguished NRIs At Annual Gala

The Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center honored eight Indian Americans with Excellence Awards for their outstanding accomplishments in their respective fields of specialization and contributions to the larger society during the 31st Annual Awards Banquet held on October 28, 2023, in Elmont, New York. The prestigious awards ceremony was attended by nearly 200 people from across the United States and Canda, including several elected officials, community and business leaders.

This year’s honorees were: Dr. Shyam Kottilil (Baltimore, MD) – Life Time Achievement Award; Sajeeb Koya (Pickering, Ontario, Canada) – Entrepreneurship; Dr. Anna George (Long Island, NY) – Nursing; Shelby Kutty (Baltimore, MD) – Medicine; Ajay Ghosh (Trumbull, CT) – Media and Journalism; Lata Menon (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) – Legal Services; Jayant Kamicheril (Reading, PA) – Pravasi Malayalam Literature; and Gopala Pillai (Dallas, Texas) – Community Service.

“Kerala Center is very happy to honor American Malayalees who excel in their professions and who work for social progress — their examples should be an inspiration for others,” said Dr. Madhu Bhaskaran, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Dr. Madhu Bhaskaran, who is also the Award Committee Chairman introduced the other members of the Awards Committee, including Dr. Thomas Abraham, Daisy P. Stephen and Varkey Abraham.

“The Kerala Center has been honoring outstanding achievers since 1992. Every year we invite nominations and the committee has to make a unanimous choice for a candidate in a category to receive the award and this year is no different from previous years in terms of their achievements. The Center has recognized nearly 200 American Malayalees in the last 31 years and it is great to see that they have continued to rise further in their careers and serve the society,” said Dr. Thomas Abraham, Kerala Center’s Trustee Board Chairman and Award Committee Member¸ who had played a pivotal role in the establishment of Kerala Center. Alex K. Esthappan, Kerala Center President said, “The Kerala Center, a non-profit, member supported organization, is the only center of its kind serving the Keralites and the Indian American community in the tri-state New York area,” he said. “It was founded to provide a platform to discuss the issues that are of concern to us, share our experiences, celebrate our festivals, promote our culture and traditions, and to bring our people together.” Raju Thomas, General Secretary of the Kerala Center in his remarks said, “We at the Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center in Long Island, New York are very pleased to honor the distinguished members of our commnity with the prestigious award during the solemn ceremony here at our Center.”

Inaugurated in 1993, past awardees of the Kerala Center include, US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, Dr. Shashi Tharoor, NY State Senator Kevin Thomas, Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt, American College of Physicians President Dr. George Abraham, Venture Capitalist Sreedhar Menon, Shanti Bhavan Founder Dr. Abraham George and Prof. P. Somasundaran of Columbia University.

In her very eloquent introductory remarks, Daisy Stephen, Vice President of the Kerala Center and Emcee for the ceremony said, “From a modest beginning 31 years ago, the Kerala Center has come a long way to play a vital role in the life of the Malayalee community in the United States.” She lauded the pioneers who had the vision to start the Kerala Center and dealt with many challenges of starting such an institution. “Today, the Kerala Center has become truly a ‘Shining Center’ of our culture and heritage. The Center has outgrown its initial objectives for which it was founded and has become a facility that serves the various needs of the larger Indian American community,” she said.

“I congratulate you on your success,” Kevin Thomas, New York State Senator told the awardees and the Non Resident Keralite community members. He praised the eight honorees for “showing the way” to the rest of the community, and the Kerala Center for being at the center of the Indian Diaspora in New York. “Over the past three decades, it has become a focal point for Indian Americans, coordinating programs, activities, and services to the members and groups of the community in the New York region.”

Dr. Shyam Kottilil, who was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award delivered the keynote address. He provided a brief introduction to Infectious diseases and how the measures initiated by the US Government has saved humanity. While cautioning about the “total lockdown” imposed on the world due to Covid, Dr. Kotilil shared about the many lessons learned and the ways we as members of the larger community can protect ourselves from future pandemics. As part of the Award Ceremony, a Souvenir was released depicting the history and the journey of the Kerala Center. James Thottam was the chairman of the Awards Dinner. Board members Abraham Thomas, Mathew Vazhappally and John Paul coordinated the event. A variety entertainment program curated by and performed by talented artists from Nupura School of Dances and a fabulous dinner was a treat to the body and soul of the participants. Bincy Cherian delighted the audience with beautiful melodies. Kerala Center Exceutive Director, Thambi Thalappillil concluded the ceremony with a vote of thanks to the guests, awardees, audience, sponsors and everyone worked so hard to make it a successful event.

Dr. Shyam Kottilil – Life Time Achievement Award

Dr. Shyam Kottilil is a world renowned virologist and immunologist who has made pivotal contributions in the field of Hepatitis and HIV. He is currently the Interim Director of the Institute of Human Virology in Baltimore, MD, the first and foremost Virology Institute in the world. Dr. Kottilil has had an illustrious career with over 350 major publications, as well as awards and accolades from premier societies in Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and the National Institutes of Health.

Sajeeb Koya – Entrepreneurship

Sajeeb Koya, a North American Malayali, is the man behind the LED Façade lighting that lights up Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Sajeeb and his team are proud to be part of this project which owns 2 Guinness World Records. His company 3S International Inc., which has its headquarters at Pickering (Ontario, Canda), has executed  numerous vibrant Architectural and Media Façade LED projects all over the world. People just see lights as utilitarian, whereas Sajeeb sees multitude of colors, shades, movements, and blends the beauty of light with technology.

Sajeeb Koya hailing from Trivandrum, is an Electrical Engineer graduated in 1987 from CET Trivandrum. He has held key positions with several Multi Nationals before starting his own business in Canada in 2001. He lives with his family at Pickering, Ontario, Canada. He is very active since childhood in the fields of photography, music and acting. He is currently involved in key positions with several community & charity organizations.

Dr. Anna George – for Nursing

Dr. Anna George is the current President of the Indian Nurses Association of New York (INANY). She is a Nurse, a nurse practitioner, human rights advocate, and a social activist. She works at Molloy University as an Associate Professor, teaching the Nurse Practitioner Track and as a Nurse Practitioner at Northwell Health.

Dr. Shelby Kutty – Medicine

Dr. Shelby Kutty is a physician scientist and academic leader, serving as the Helen B. Taussig endowed professor and director of pediatric and congenital cardiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He also chairs the analytic intelligence program at Johns Hopkins. One of the world’s preeminent experts on multimodality cardiovascular imaging with over 400 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Kutty is passionate about patient outcomes and evidence-based assessment of new technologies.

Lata Menon, Esq. – Legal Services

An accomplished Barrister and Solicitor and active community member, Lata Menon has become a recognized name in the legal community in Ontario, as well as the Indian states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala, where she practiced as a lawyer before immigrating to Canada. In addition to her professional activities as a lawyer, Lata devotes her time to the community at large and has become an active supporter and champion of women’s equality and rights. She is actively engaged in several social and community programs in her capacity as a Founder, Board Member, Secretary, Legal Advisor, and many other positions. As a professional, Lata has touched the lives of several of her clients who came to her in distress when faced with family discord, domestic violence, abuse, and family disputes, which she has influenced many of her clients to pull their lives together and persevere in the face of adversity. Lata’s achievements and success makes her a true leader, mentor, formidable force, influence, and inspiration to many.

Jayant Kamicheril – Pravasi Malayalam Literature

Jayant Kamicheril is a recipient of Kerala Sahithya Academy award for 2022 for his book “Oru Kumarakom Karantay Kuruthamketta Likhithangal”. He won LANA Award in 2019 for his book: Kumarakathu Oru Pesaha. His essays and stories in English and Malayalam have been published in N. America and India. He lives in Reading, PA with wife Anita Namboodiri and they have two daughters – Aloka and Shreela.

Gopala Pillai –Community Service

Gopala Pillai has served as the President and Board Member of several organizations in CultureTexas and Detroit, and has been with the World Malayali Council from1995 as its Secretary, President and Chairman. Through these organizations he has been able to provide many services for the good of society. His life’s work reflects his unwavering commitment to both the local community in the USA and the betterment of the less privileged in Kerala, India. He has degrees in Economics, Journalism, and Computer Science, pursuing a successful career in Information Technology in the USA since 1975.

Ajay Ghosh Honored With Excellence In Media & Journalism Award

Ajay Ghosh – Media and Journalism

Ajay Ghosh is the Chief Editor and co-publisher of The Universal News Network (www. theunn.com ), an online publication, launched in 2012, focusing on possibility oriented storytelling that fuels hope and sparks innovative ideas and actions; seeking to lead discussions, creating, disseminating, and using news and information that serves us all, and providing a platform for diverse voices, forms, and continually engaging everyone.

Ajay graduated with a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Marquette University , Milwaukee, WI in 1998.  Prior to coming to the United States, Ajay was the Chief Editor of The Voice Delhi and contributed articles to several national publications in India.

Starting his journalistic career as a reporter in 1999 for India Post, Ajay had worked as the New York Bureau Chief of Indian Reporter and  World News , and he served as the New York Bureau Chief of India Tribune, a weekly newspaper published from Chicago. Ajay was the Executive Editor of NRI Today, and the Bureau Chief of The Indian Express, North American Editions. He was the Chief Editor of The Asian Era, a monthly publication from New York since its launch in 2005 to 2018.

Since 2014, Ajay has been serving as the Media Coordinator of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the largest ethnic medical organization in the United States, representing 100,000 physicians of Indian origin. In 2023, he was appointed as the Media Consultant for Public Relations for ITServe Alliance, the largest association of IT Solutions and services organizations in the United States, with over 2,200 small and medium sized member companies of Information Technology.

Ajay had graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Delhi University in 1989. Ajay served as an Adjunct Faculty, teaching Social Work Seminar and guiding MSW students at the Fordham Graduate School of Social Work in New York City from 2006 to 2016. He was an Adjunct Professor at Bridgeport University, where he taught Psychology.

Ajay works as a Psychiatric Social Worker at Yale-New Haven Psychiatric Hospital from 2017 onwards, and currently serves as a full-time Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Bridgeport Hospital. He worked as a Social Worker at Hartford Health at Home from 2019 to 2022. Ajay served as the Administrator of the Mental Health Clinic at St. Dominic’s Home, Bronx, NY from 1999 to 2015.

In 2019, Ajay was part of a nearly 200-member expedition to Antarctica, the 7th Continent on Earth. Ajay served as the founder President of the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) in 2014. He currently serves as the Secretary of the Borad of Directors of IPAC.

Ajay was honored with the Excellence in Reporting Award by AAPI for several years. In 2018, Ajay received the Excellence in Journalism Award from NAMAM, a North American Community Organization. In October 2023, Ajay received the prestigious Excellence in Journalism & Media Award by The Kerala Center in New York.

Ajay is married to Mini, and the couple are blessed with three adorable daughters, Archana, Navya, and Ahana.

Synergy 2023 Begins in Atlantic City, Celebrating Remarkable Achievements of ITServe Members

(October 27, 2023: Atlantic City, NJ) ItServe Alliance’s flagship Synergy 2023 was inaugurated here on Thursday, October 26th, 2023 as over 2,200 members of ITServe Alliance, who are small and medium size companies of Information Technology came together at Harras Resort in Atlantic City in New Jersey for networking, learning and sharing of knowledge, collaborating with one another, strengthening bonds, and celebrating their achievements and accomplishments.

In his Presidential Welcome address, Vinay K. Mahajan, National President of ITServe Alliance, welcomed the members, leaders, chapter presidents, sponsors, and volunteers to Synergy 2023 and expressed his “sincere gratitude for your unwavering commitment, and dedication, and for investing your time and energy and resources. You are the backbone of our organization, and your unwavering commitment is what propels us forward.”

Describing the mission of ITServe Mr. Mahajan said, “We’re in the forefront, guiding and empowering its members. ITServe today is a powerful force focused on safeguarding the interests of small and medium business enterprises. We have more than 2,200 member companies, spread over 21 Chapters, they generate 175,000 high paying jobs across the United States. Our members contribute almost $12 billion to the US GDP. We at ITServe Alliance are immensely proud of us for being very successful. We are the voice represent the interests of small and medium scale enterprises of IT industry, protecting our members’ interests. We give back to the community, and invest in startups, which is to help the United States maintain the leadership in innovation and technology.”

Mahajan went on to say, “I always thank you members, because of you, we are all strong together. Our success today is not about working alone in isolation. It is about coming together, collaborating and liberating our collective strength. It is about finding synergy, not only within our own businesses but also across our entire community. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age, our role today is even more critical. We are not just service providers. We are architects of transformation. We shape the future of industries and enhance the lives of individuals worldwide. This event is dedicated to you. Together we will innovate and lead the way in the IT services industry. Thank you for being part of synergy. Let us embark on the journey together and fueled by the spirit of collaboration and the pursuit of success.”

In his opening remarks, Venu Sangani, Director of Synergy 2023 said, “As we gather here, let’s remember that our unity as a community is our strength. Last year in Orlando, Florida, I took on this leadership role, an opportunity, driven with a single objective:  to help at the end of the conference, each attendee departs with concrete insight to grow their business to the next level. Because in all of you here today, there is both gratitude and deep sense of accomplishment, knowing our collective vision is alive and thriving.”

Sanghani, who led a dedicated and visionary team organizing this historic event said, “ Synergy 2023 is our landmark flagship gathering, whether you’re a familiar face from previous years, or you’re experiencing this your first time, I promise you that the opportunities for growth and learning forging a path with connections during this event unmatching with featuring seven keynote sessions from seven different domain panels, panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions and I encourage each one of you to be fully present, engage dynamically and above all, collaborate with fellow members. The essence of it so synergy lies not only very knowledge exchange, but inspiring one another. Let the success stories of fellow entrepreneurs ignite your ambitions, be it scaling your business to the next level, or diversifying investments or starting new territories. That is going to happen at Synergy 2023. Let’s make the most of Synergy.”

Vinodbabu Uppu, Governing Board Chair of ITServe said, “Synergy 2023 is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy 2023 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

In his inspiring inaugural keynote address, Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Forbes Media sooke about “Leadership Lessons: The Stunning Parallels between Great Leaders of the World and Today’s Top Business Leaders.” Forbes said, “You have to do things even if you feel you’re not fully ready to do it. The next year or two will be very severe. But also keep in mind that enormous positive changes are coming. For example, the issue of immigration today looks hopeless in a town called Washington, which is becoming the epitome of hopelessness. There will be in 2025, after the elections, with your help a new immigration law on H1 B Visas, virtually unlimited to meet the needs of a growing economy.”

Referring to the global situation, Forbes said, “We know we live in a world today, where Russia, China, North Korea and Iran feel that the United States is a declining power. China has made very clear it wants world domination. Russia under Putin has made it very clear he wants to recreate the Soviet empire. Iran wants to be the hegemony of the Middle East and control the oil and dominate the region and ultimately eliminate Israel. In the crazy border wars, China keeps pushing against India. Not a good environment.”

Giving hope in this world of wars, Forbes pointed to areas of hope. “We saw it in the meeting between President Biden, Prime Minister Modi weeks ago. The meetings with South Korea, Japan and the United States. Whoever would have thought that Japan and South Korea would be cooperating with one another. These forces are coming together to make sure there is peace in the world.” In the domestic front, Forbes advocated for tangible, practical and cost-effective measures with minimum regulations to address the issues affecting the United States, which includes, rising inflation, climate change, labor market and annual growth of the economy.

Phaneesh Murthy, Founder & CEO of Primentor addressed the audience with his insightful talk on, “Strategies for Scaling and Sustaining a Successful IT Company from One to 100 Million Plus” The keynote address by Zack Kass, Technology Futurist, and Generative AI Solutions Specialist focused on: “AI for Small Business Success: Navigating the Future of Entrepreneurship.”

Ashish Agarwal from Turbo Start, DVC led the Startup Cube Panel on “GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups.”  Post Lunch, a Financial Panel Discussion explored “Alternative Investments for Diversified Business Portfolios and Funding Solutions for Diversified Growth.” The Breakout Session in the Afternoon was about: “Mastering the Art of Effective Recruiting in the Staffing Industry” by Barbara Bruno.

“State, County, City, High-Ed & Federal Government Contracting: Opportunities & Challenges” was yet another important topic at the Breakout Session in the afternoon and was led by Nazeera Dawood, CEO of Vendorship.net. The M & A Panel Discussion deliberated on, “Driving Growth and Value Through Strategic M&A: Opportunities and Challenges: Accelerating Business Expansion.” Another interesting Breakout Session on the first day was about, “Increase Cash Flow $$$ and Collect Bad Debt,” led by Douglas Fuchs at Goldman, Evans & Trammell LLC.

Kevin O’Leary, a Venture Capitalist, Star of ABC’s Shark Tank delivered the Evening keynote address on: “The Path to Profit: Strategies for Building a Successful Business.” Through specific portrayals from his popular Shark Tank, his insightful address to the loud applauses from the crowd referred to successful business strategies to enhance business profits.

During the evening Gala Grand Sponsors: Four Oaks Insurance and TrackEx as well as the Platinum Sponsors of Synergy 2023: AG Fintax, BBI Law Group, Ceipa; Corp, Imagility, Oorwin, Q 1  Technologies, Somireddy Law, T I A Tech Insurance Agency, and Vitel Global were honored for their generous support to ITSereve Alliance.

With cultural events, music and dance, sumptuous food in addition to all the learning and sharing of knowledge, Synergy 2023 has been curated to provide actionable insights and strategies that companies can directly implement, serving as a catalyst for taking your business to the next level. Beyond being an arena for networking and knowledge sharing, Synergy 2023 has proved to be a veritable marketplace for ideas and innovations.

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country. For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

Indian American Muslim Council Holds National Convention in Texas

The Indian American Muslim Council hosted its annual convention on Saturday, October 14, 2023, anchored on the theme of “Upholding Democracy and Human Rights: A Global Call to Action.” The event was convened at the Plano Events Center in Plano, Texas, and saw over 1,000 attendees.

In addition to a full day of panel discussions on human rights in India and the US, the event featured a wide-ranging bazaar with local vendors selling South Asian apparel, as well as Islamic art, books, children’s toys, and even solar panel installation services. Also included in the bazaar were book displays on the global persecution of Muslims, the increasing presence of Hindu far- right nationalist groups in the United States, and young adult fiction. Anchoring rows of tables was a candle-light memorial kept burning all day with the names of victims of anti-minority attacks in India superimposed on the famous India Gate in Delhi.

Panels convened throughout the day to offer convention participants the opportunity to learn about conditions that Muslims, Christians, Dalits, and other persecuted minorities are facing in
India, the rise of Hindu nationalist groups in India and the United States, and the need to organize across faiths in order to present a united front against India’s ruling Hindutva (or Hindu
nationalist) party, the Bharatiya Janata Party. According to The Guardian, Hindutva is rooted in Hindu supremacism, an ideology that aims to transform India into the Hindu Rashtra (nation)
where Muslims and Christians are reduced to second-class citizens and Hindus enjoy higher status.

After a rousing prayer led by Plano’s own Dr. Zafar Anjum, Imam at Colony Masjid, Shaikh Omar Suleiman delivered the convention’s keynote address.

India, 5 th Largest Economy Ranks 111 out of 125 Countries in the Global Hunger Index

Even as nearly one million children of Gaza face a genocidal campaign by Israel driven by relentless bombing and a cruel embargo on essential supplies, the Global Hunger Index 2023 has drawn our attention to the growing pangs of hunger across the world. The GHI2023 report attributes the alarming global hunger scene to a combination of recent developments like the Covid pandemic and Russia-Ukraine war apart from deeply embedded socio-economic reasons and the rapidly worsening climate crisis. Now Israel’s genocidal siege and invasion of Gaza reminds us how in today’s world hunger can still be inflicted as a form of war. If Israel is not immediately restrained, we will soon witness a veritable famine and thousands of people dying of hunger and thirst in Gaza.

The GHI 2023 report indicates a general stagnation and even reversal on the front of combating hunger. The hunger index is calculated as a combined measure of four factors – undernourishment (among children as well as adults), child stunting (percentage of children below five years of age with low height for their age, reflecting chronic undernutrition), child wasting (percentage of children below five years of age with low weight for their height, indicating acute undernutrition) and child mortality (the mortality rate of children under the age of five). The two most critical regions of the world in terms of the spread and scale of hunger are South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa with a GHI value of 27.0, way above the global average of 18.3.

Picture: IAS Compass

The biggest contributor to South Asia’s alarming situation is none other than India which has been steadily slipping in GHI rankings over the last one decade. With a GHI score of 28.7, India now stands at 111 out of 125 countries. Each of India’s South Asian neighbours fares significantly better than India – Pakistan ranks 102 with a GHI value of 26.6 while Nepal (GHI 15.0) and Bangladesh (GHI 19.0) have made remarkable progress occupying respectively the 69th and 81st positions. Sri Lanka, of course, still has the best record in South Asia with a GHI score of 13.3 and the 60th rank. Among the four factors making up the GHI index, India has the most alarming child wasting rate of 18.7% which reflects acute undernutrition. The overall GHI score of 28.7 puts India in the ‘serious’ category of hunger-stricken countries. Undernutrition is not just stunting the growth of millions of India’s children; an alarming 58.1 percent of India’s women suffer from various levels of anaemia.

The response of the Modi government to the GHI 2023 report has been similar to its standard response to all such global reports – be it the Oxfam inequality report or India’s alarming decline
in terms of press freedom or various other indices or measures of democracy. The Modi government lives in a perpetual denial mode and even contemptuously rubbishes these reports as foreign or western conspiracies.

India has been the only country to find fault with the GHI report, but the authors of the report have convincingly rebutted Modi government’s objections. The data used in the GHI report are
collected from verified sources including statistical updates issued periodically by concerned countries and studies by various multilateral agencies. The GHI findings are corroborated by other global studies on hunger and food security. The Global Food Security Index report released annually by the British weekly magazine The Economist placed India at 71st position out of 113 countries in 2021 and at 68th position in 2022. While India with 57.2 points was placed at the same level as Algeria, China stood at 25th position with a score of 74.2.

While the GHI report focuses on undernutrition, child stunting, child wasting and child mortality, the GFSI report is based on measures of food security driven by factors like affordability, availability, quality and safety and natural resources and resilience. The problem in India is now not so much with availability of food where India ranks 42 with a score of 62.3 as with affordability where India finishes 80th with a score of 59.3. The lack of affordability can only be overcome by running a powerful public distribution system, stopping profiteering of food and by improving the purchasing power of the common people. The Modi governmen’s policies are taking the country in the opposite direction. While the regime denies the shocking reports of hunger and lack of food security, in election time it projects the claim of distributing ‘free ration’ to 80 crore people as its biggest achievement. This claim itself is the strongest official testimony to India’s abysmal performance as revealed by the global reports on hunger and food security.

One look at the reports focusing on inequality, hunger and the conditions of India’s workers is enough to deflate the hype manufactured around the G20 summit and the celebration over the tag
of the world’s fifth largest economy. The government keeps talking of demographic dividends and empowerment of women.

The GHI report throws light on the alarming health conditions of India’s children and young women. Add to this the gloom caused by the trajectory of India’s jobless, nay job-loss, economic growth and the precarious conditions of India’s young working and job-seeking population and we know how the Indian people are being systematically impoverished and ruined. The question
of the Indian people’s right to food and effective and universal food security cannot be reduced to the Modi government’s cynical vote-seeking in the name of ‘free ration’. The GHI and GFSI
reports tell us that continued neglect of the agenda of food security is bound to push India into a bigger disaster.

New York Indian Consulate and GOPIO Manhattan Organize ‘Meet Greet’ for Students from India

The Consulate General of India in New York in cooperation with GOPIO Manhattan organized the ‘Meet and Greet Students from India’ studying in the Northeast to connect them to the community and providing mentoring opportunities as well as to raise awareness of Consular services to students from the Consulate. Students from many universities in the New York area
including Columbia, NYU, Tandon School of Engineering, Tauro, Pace, New York Institute of Technology, Rutgers, Univ. of Penn. and as far as Boston including Harvard and Babson participated in person and via Facebook Live.

The program started with a welcome by Deputy Consul General of Indian Dr. Varun Jeph, who emphasized the unique and strong relationship between India and the United States, highlighting
it as a comprehensive strategic partnership. He stressed the significance of the knowledge and education aspect, innovation, research engagement, and the role of international students in this
partnership. Dr. Jeph invited, Consulate General of India at New York, honorable Consul General Mr. Randhir Jaiswal addressed the gathering.

CG Jaiswal said, “In the United States, the concept of a knowledge partnership is extensive, and while there are challenges, there’s a lot of positivity coming from India, such as the success of
Chandrayaan and the historic visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Washington, resulting in new partnerships in technology and knowledge exchange. There’s a strong focus on supporting the Indian student community in the U.S. The speaker expressed well wishes for students studying and working in the U.S. and celebrating Diwali. He emphasized that the knowledge partnership
extends beyond the student community.”

Jaiswal added, “Over the past 20 years, three notable educational projects, including the Indian School of Business, Ashoka University in Haryana, and the upcoming “Passion” project, have emerged. The name “Passion” symbolizes the source from which knowledge flows. The speaker highlighted the growing number of Indian students studying abroad, contributing to India’s demographic dividend, and impacting global socio-economic and technological landscapes. The speaker welcomed the audience, engaged in conversation, and expressed gratitude for their presence.”

Following that, host of the evening Ms. Bhavya Gupta, Founder ACE Consultants and Secretary at GOPIO Manhattan, expressed pride in the large number of Indian students in the U.S. and hoped that the panel discussion would provide valuable insights to help these students adapt and succeed in the academic, social, and cultural aspects of American life. She mentioned the idea of the event is not only to come together and gain from the experiences and learnings of the accomplished panel, but also to become part of the Indian American community, as an extended family. The discussion aimed to better inform and educate the students about their future in the United States.

Ms. Gupta then invited, Dr. Thomas Abraham, Founder and Chairman of GOPIO International and advisor to GOPIO Manhattan, in collaboration to which the event took place, who addressed the gathering. Dr. Abraham said, “Around 50 years ago, when I arrived in New York as a student at Columbia University, communication with our homeland was very limited and expensive. Making an international call could cost up to $3 and take a whole day to connect. Back then, foreign students were assigned host families. However, in today’s networked world, we are all
connected through platforms like WhatsApp and social media. There are now 4.5 million people of Indian origin living in the United States, ready to support and guide you. Since 2018, we’ve
organized a program to welcome new students with a dinner event in Stamford, Connecticut. We shared this idea to do a program in New York’ve had support from the Consul General of Indian, even though we had to skip 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in 2021 and beyond, we’ve resumed these welcome programs. This marks the fourth one, and we’ve invited students from colleges in the New York area, including some from Harvard. The United States is a fantastic country that provides opportunities for all. You can pursue any path, whether it’s a career in a large corporation, managing an investment fund, scientific research, teaching, or entrepreneurship. Personally, I’m involved in advanced materials and nanotechnology consulting, but my true passion has been building community institutions since I arrived in 1973. I’ve established seven such institutions in the last 50 years, including the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) New York I initiated in 1976.”

GOPIO, it is a secular community organization for Indian expatriates (NRIs) and people of Indian origin (PIO), with a non-religious and non-political nature, encompassing over 100 chapters in 35 countries. The newest chapter is located in Manhattan and actively engages in community service. Students are welcome to volunteer their time for activities such as community feeding programs, which are conducted on the last Monday of every month. If an interest in volunteering arises, the vice president Dr. Vimal Goyle can be reached out to. The primary goal of this event was to establish connections between students and the Indian American community, offering opportunities for interaction with consulate officials, speakers, presenters, and mentors in attendance.

GOPIO Manhattan Board Member Raj Panjabi introduced the moderator and panelists. Dr. Nilanjan Sen, Ph.D., CFA, a Professor of Finance) in the School of Business at the University of Albany, State University of New York was the moderator. He brought a wealth of experience from his role as the former Dean of the School of Business at the University of Albany, effectively bridging the corporate and academic realms. The panel also featured Dr. Mohini Mukherjee, the Executive Director of International Student Services at Rutgers, who offered insights into the academic perspective. Additionally, Mr. Debasis Sahu, Partner Price Waterhouse Cooper (PwC), shared his corporate expertise, drawing from his over 25 years of experience in the United States. He shed light on what companies seek when hiring graduates.

Ms. Prashanthi Reddy Esq. provided valuable guidance on immigration-related matters, guiding students on transitioning from F1 to CPT/OPT and ultimately to the coveted H1B status. Last but
not least, Ms. Suruchi Saini, Founder Holistic Bonfire LLC, a Board certified licensed professional counselor and tele mental health provider, addressed the challenges of managing stress and anxiety, particularly in the academic context.

The Discussion started with Immigration Attorney Prashanthi Reddy, with her legal insights. She emphasized on the importance of understanding and following the guidelines to avoid legal issues and maintain a successful academic and professional journey in the United States. She mentioned, “Here are some key points to remember for international students in the United States. Your visa duration depends on your course length, so ensure you maintain full-time enrollment and stay informed about changing regulations, especially for online classes. Avoid fraudulent universities and use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) judiciously, following your school's guidelines. Steer clear of illegal activities, including using fake IDs, and never work without proper authorization. In case of legal issues, consult an immigration attorney. Stay updated on immigration policies and comply with specific regulations for foreign students when taking online courses.”

Dr. Mohini Mukherjee shared, “Connect with your campus’s International Student Services office, attend their programs, and follow them on social media for support. Use the many resources available on your campus, from career services to academic writing support, to enhance your experience. Remember to maintain your legal status by staying informed about updates and reporting changes. Be open to the opportunities around you.”

Ms. Suruchi Saini advocated a holistic approach to life, combining the science of yoga, psychology, and neuroscience. She emphasized the importance of staying connected with one’s
mind and taking care of the brain, considering it one’s most valuable asset. This holistic approach includes understanding the impact of food on brain function and the connection between physical and mental well-being. She added, “Daily self-reflection, meditation, or even just a few minutes of quiet time to sharpen one’s focus and maintain a strong connection between the mind and body.” She suggested, “Such practices not only promote relaxation but also help individuals envision their future, set long-term and short-term goals, and track their progress. Additionally, she advised maintaining emotional intelligence and logical thinking separately, using the logical brain in professional contexts and understanding that constructive feedback is about improving tasks, not personal rejection.

Mr. Debasis Sahu imparted wisdom to students, emphasizing the unique educational journey he embarked on, in New York. He stressed on the significance of perpetual learning and self- improvement since knowledge is readily available, making adaptability a competitive advantage. He said, “Overcoming self-doubt and taking charge of one’s career by practicing self-reflection is encouraged. It’s suggested that students find their purpose and passion, as this naturally draws knowledge and information. The importance of collaborating with others and honing effective communication skills is also highlighted. In essence, students are advised to seize their opportunities, focus on continuous learning and growth, and nurture vital skills like collaboration and clear communication for a prosperous career.”

One of the very intriguing questions thrown to them in the panel was about how to tackle the challenges students come across in their journey in a new country. To which Dr. Mohini Mukherjee said, “The importance of preparation as a key element for success, especially in the context of interviews and planning for various aspects of life as international students.” Furthermore, she emphasized the fact that interviews are an opportunity for mutual assessment, with students learning about the company while the company assesses the students. Overall, she underscored the value of preparation in navigating challenges and making the best impression in various situations.

Sahu added to this, “I’ve received and personally adopted some valuable advice that continues to guide me. One piece of advice is to embrace discomfort because growth often arises from
challenging and uncomfortable situations. Another is to recognize that life is a journey, so it's essential to pace yourself and prioritize your well-being. Stress and anxiety are part of life, but
managing them through activities like exercise, talking to someone, and maintaining your fitness is crucial for your career and avoiding burnout. These principles have proven helpful for me.”
Reddy said, “In my journey, I discovered the importance of venturing beyond my comfort zone. While I initially pursued a career in law and thought of myself as solely a lawyer focused on
legal briefs and client communication, I eventually embarked on the path of running my own business. Transitioning into this role required me to step into the realm of marketing, which was
far from my comfort zone as I wasn’t inclined to self-promotion. However, as I took the leap, I found that I not only enjoyed it but also learned the value of embracing self-marketing. I realized that it’s more fulfilling for people to recognize me for who I am as a person rather than merely for my professional role.”

Dr. Sahani followed by saying, “My advice to you all is to dive wholeheartedly into your vision, explore and gather resources, and maintain a balance between your personal and professional
growth. Challenges will arise, but with self-awareness and the ability to focus, you can overcome them. Keep emotions in check, stay logical and focused, and you’ll not only overcome challenges but also be in a position to uplift those around you. Wishing you all the best!”

This panel discussion served as a valuable resource for international students, providing them with guidance, motivation, and strategies to navigate their unique educational journey in a new
country. It reinforces the idea that preparation, self-reflection, embracing discomfort, and venturing outside one's comfort zone are key elements in achieving success and personal growth.
The vote of thanks was given by Ms. Bhavya Gupta on behalf of Mr. Shivender Sofat, President GOPIO-Manhattan, highlighting the importance of the takeaways from the accomplished panel.
There were many other volunteers from GOPIO-Manhattan including Co-Secretary Dr. Lisa George and Venkat Boyalla and student volunteers from NYU Tandon School of Engineering Priya Kundu Sneha Kripa Tirchy Shekar. In the end, the shared wisdom and experiences of these esteemed panelists underscore the message that international students can achieve not only their
academic and professional goals but also their personal growth and fulfillment. With the right mindset and preparation, they can embrace their unique journey, overcome challenges, and
ultimately thrive in a new country.

See the video of the program streamed through Facebook live at
https://fb.watch/nFwfjgTgv3/?mibextid=KQpadY
This report was prepared NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering student Priya Kundu. For more
info on GOPIO Manhattan, call President Shivender Sofat at 731-988-6969, e-mail:
[email protected] or visit here: https://gopiomanhattan.org/

Indian Nurses Association of New York Holds Health Screening and Education in Long Island

The health screening and education booths of Indian Nurses Association of New York (INANY) at the Senior Health Expo in Rockville Center, Long Island was a major attraction for the local
communities in the area. They included blood pressure monitoring, body mass index measurement, blood sugar check, physical and mental health screening, diabetes education, heart- related education and other health maintenance education and guidance. The Senior Health Expo was organized by the first Indian American second term New York State Senator of Long Island
Kevin Thomas. The event was targeted at the seniors in the region to give access to information and resources for maintaining and bettering their health.

INANY, the organization that stands as the voice of Indian nurses living in New York, has been engaged with New York State Senator to extend healthcare services to the underserved communities in his constituency for the last three years. INANY was also a recipient of a $10,000 grant in partnership with Coalition of Asian American Children and Families to address the surge anti-Asian hate incidents after the COVID-19 pandemic began. The nurses conducted an awareness and bystander intervention training program in senior centers, professional forums, social gatherings and as part of a nursing continuing education conference. The training program comprises various strategies that could be used by a witness or bystander of an anti-Asian hate incident to comfortably intervene to help the victim, without compromising safety or fear. Dr.Anna George, the president of INANY pointed out that the strategies are evidence based and have been adopted by various universities and healthcare organizations such as Northwell Health.

INANY also utilized this opportunity to provide innovative and accessible infection control education for frontline healthcare workers to protect their patients. This initiative was part of National Association of Indian Nurses of North America (NAINA) instituting a grant from American Nurses Association.

The nurse-volunteers who attended at the Health Expo comprised of nurses working at bedside, nurse practitioners from cardiac catheter lab, and university professors who shared their expertise to educate on reducing risks of life threatening illnesses and conditions. They also did depression screening and talked about need for seeking help or reaching out to resources when someone from own family or others suffers from mental health conditions or substance abuse. They also counselled about the stigma attached to mental illness.

Taylor Darling, the New York assembly woman from district 18 who observed services of INANY nurses at the Expo said that she was thoroughly impressed and delighted with what INANY did for the health of the community. She talked about the stressors in nursing related to staff shortage, safe staffing issues, faculty shortage and acuity at work and thanked the nurses for their compassion and altruism. Senator Kevin Thomas expressed his gratitude for the services INANY provided to the people of his district and for the dedication of Indian nurses for what they do every day in healthcare facilities.

INANY president Dr. Anna George, Annie Sabu Aleyamma Appukuttan, Grace Alexaner, Nisha Jayan, Grace Geevarghese, Rupinder Kaur, Paul Panakal, Shiney Xavier, Paul Panakal, and Jaya
Vathappally dedicated the day for their voluntary services at the Expo.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Hosts Diwali At Gracie Mansion & Across New York City Boroughs

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said on Tuesday, October 17th that Diwali is a reminder for all to push away darkness and usher in light. He further urged people to embrace the spirit of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita and Mahatma Gandhi in order to become better humans. Adams emphasized the significance of Diwali as a symbol of dispelling darkness and welcoming light during the annual Diwali celebration held at his New York residence, Gracie Mansion. The celebration was the first of others palnned as part of the inaugural 5 Borough Diwali Tour hosted by Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar and the Mayor in NYC.

In his speech at the annual event, which was attended by many influential members of the Indian-American and South Asian communities, as well as representatives from other diasporas and the government, Adams said that Diwali is about more than just lighting candles or oil lamps; it is about "lighting up our lives."

“There is so much darkness that we are seeing every day. So if we truly believe in the life of Ramayana, if we truly believe in the life of Sita, if we truly believe in the life of Gandhi, then we must continue Gandhi’s steps. We cannot only be worshippers; we must be practitioners,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the annual Diwali celebration hosted at his New York residence, Gracie Mansion. He further requested everyone to support the effort to eradicate the darkness
consuming the world and causing the deaths of innocent people.

“Diwali is more than just a holiday. It is a reminder to all of us that we must push away the darkness wherever we see it and bring light. That is what the Festival of Lights is about,” Adams said. This annual celebration was attended by hundreds of prominent members of the Indian- American and South Asian community as well as diaspora from other nationalities and government officials. Adams said Diwali is more than just lighting a candle; it is about “lighting up our lives”.

“There is so much darkness that we are seeing every day. So if we truly believe in the life of Ramayana, if we truly believe in the life of Sita, if we truly believe in the life of Gandhi, then we must continue Gandhi’s steps. We cannot only be worshippers; we must be practitioners,” he said.

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, who was instrumental in establishing Diwali as a school holiday in New York City, expressed that the Indian-American community has reached a level of influence and strength like never before. “We are unstoppable, and we have arrived at the table of power in this state,” she said.

She further emphasized that, especially given the turmoil in various parts of the world and the rising intolerance and prejudice against different communities, the Indian-American community has a unique opportunity to lead the way toward peace and harmony.

Mayo Adams announced he will be making several stops in his Diwali ‘tour’ visiting all the five boroughs of New York City. “This holiday was so important to us. I look forward to doing this five-borough tour to let everyone know that with the tour and celebration we are going to push away the darkness and bring in a new light,” the Mayor declared. Next day, the Mayor tweeted out a message and pictures from the Gracie Mansion event, saying, “I’m so proud to stand with our Hindu community and last night we welcomed them to the People’s House for a special
#Diwali celebration.”

The Mayor thanked all those involved with the push to make Diwali a public school holiday, starting with Rajkumar.  “I want to really thank our Assemblywoman who has been a real partner
in moving this important holiday to the forefront. I remember last year hearing so many people who wanted this holiday as we moved around the city. And she took that energy to Albany and
ensured that we will live up to the commitment and promise of this important holiday,” the Mayor said. “But I also want to thank my partners who are here in government as well.

He dwelt on the story of Ramayana, and on his visit to India, and lauded the role also played by Sita.  “So, we often hear about the greatness of Ram and what Ram represented. He was the power and the force against evil, and he pushed to ensure to rid the entire globe of darkness,” he said, adding, “But there was another significant part of the story of Ramayana. It was Sita. Sita was his other half. She was a woman of strength and integrity. She was willing to sacrifice her life to ensure that Ram was able to accomplish the task.”

The Mayor used that analogy to emphasize the need to recognize Sita’s role. “… as we move forward in a particularly male dominated society, let’s not forget, we will never be able to defeat
darkness if we do not acknowledge all the Sitas that are in the universe fighting on behalf and side by side with us,” he said.

He recalled his visit many years ago to India where, “I’ll never forget going to the home of Mahatma Gandhi and seeing his last steps. They were permanently in the sidewalk in the pavement. And it’s symbolic that the bullet took his life, but it’s up to us to continue the journey. His physical transformation through that murder should not stop the spiritual journey.”

Following the example of Ram, Sita and Gandhi, the Mayor said, “We cannot only be worshippers, we must be practitioners. And so as we leave today from under this tent of Gracie Mansion, let’s leave with the energy of taking away the darkness that we are seeing all across our globe and the loss of innocent lives. We cannot continue to watch this engulf our future and engulf humanity.”

“Let’s be better human beings, and let’s live in the spirit of Diwali. Let’s live in the spirit of Gandhi. Let’s live in the spirit of Sita. Let’s live in the spirit of Ram. And then we will live up to the expectations of what this holiday really means,” said the Mayor.

The Diwali celebration at Gracie Mansion, launching the colorful event which included a Hindu prayer, lamp lighting and in the presence of an enthusiastic crowd that included one of the main
drivers behind making Diwali a public school holiday starting in 2024, NY State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar.

Assemblyman Grace Lee, Councilperson Brewer, a longtime friend, former borough president. Councilman (Shekar) Krishnan, Councilmember Lee, and all of our state and assembly lawmakers who assisted, particularly Assemblyman and Speaker Carl Heastie and Majority Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins for getting this bill through and making this holiday happen,” Mayor Adams added.

Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, Trade, Investment and Innovation, Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, praised the role played by Rajkumar, describing her as “a proud Hindu American” and lauding her efforts to bring Diwali mainstream. He also praised the Mayor for fulfilling the promise he made during his election campaign to make Diwali a holiday.

Deputy Commissioner Chauhan said this year’s Gracie Mansion celebration of Diwali included many who had not been there in past years. “More than 80 organizations participate in this Diwali, Mayor,” he said, noting that he followed up on the Mayor’s directive to “create the new list, people who didn’t visit Gracie Mansion City Hall.”

Assemblywoman Rajkumar recalled how her election made history making her the first Indian woman ever elected to a New York State office, and the first Hindu ever elected to a New York
State office. She called out to Indian origin attendees at the event including Hindus from the diaspora, like the Caribbean, apart from India.

“Today I am proud to stand before the whole world and say that from now on and forever Diwali will be a school holiday in New York City. And today our government says to over 600,000 Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains, we see you, we recognize you, we hear you — and Diwali is an American holiday,” Rajkumar said.

She spoke about how it was the strength of the community which made the Diwali legislation a reality, and the Mayor’s support for the cause. She described the five-borough tour a historic first, adding, “We’re starting here in Gracie Mansion. We’re going to go to Times Square to celebrate Diwali. And then we’re going to go to every corner of this city and every borough; and together, we will bring light and prosperity to every corner of this city.”

Pandit Ravi Sivacharya from the Ganesh temple in Flushing, Queens, offered prayers and led the diya lighting ceremony.  Dr. Vasundhara Kalasapudi, Indo-American Arts Council chairman Dr.
Nirmal Mattoo, Dr. Hari Shukla, Musician Ustad Kamal Sabri, and Grammy nominee Chandrika Tandon, were presented citations by the Mayor’s office at the event in recognition of their various achievements and service to the community.

After the Mayor’s reception at Gracie Mansion, the celebrations will continue with events in various locations, including Times Square on October 28, Vishnu Mandir on November 4, ISKCON New York City – Hare Krishna Center on November 12, Staten Island Hindu Temple on the same day, and the final event at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir on November 13.

Leela Dance Collective Announces $1 Million Endowment Fund

Leela Dance Collective, the Los Angeles-based internationally-touring kathak dance company that combines classical dance from North India with contemporary influences, announces today that it has reached its initial $1 million goal for The Leela Foundation. This endowment fund is the only one of its kind, designed to support the future of kathak dance and Hindustani classical music in the United States.

Founded in 2016, Leela Dance Collective is a critically-acclaimed dance company that advances kathak, classical dance from North India. Through traditional works and cross-genre collaborations, Leela brings the richness and depth of Indian classical dance to contemporary audiences. Leela Dance Collective is led by the artistic direction of renowned kathak artists Rukhmani Mehta (previously Rina Mehta), Seibi Lee, and Rachna Nivas, and engages some of today’s leading dancers and musicians, as well as collaborative artists of other genres.

Leela Dance Collective has created groundbreaking productions including SPEAK, Son of the Wind, ReSound, and more. Past highlights include appearances at Ford Theaters, The Broad Stage, Kimmel Center, the Green Music Center, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, National Center for the Performing Arts in Bombay, Maui Arts & Cultural Center, and NC State LIVE.

Leela also trains the next generation of kathak artists, offering classes, training, and intensives through studios in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver and New York, plus online courses.  In 2016, Leela launched a campaign to establish The Leela Foundation, the first United  States- based endowment for North Indian artistic and cultural heritage. The Leela Foundation aims to build the financial infrastructure necessary for kathak dance and Hindustani classical music to thrive for generations to come, through direct funding for artists in the form of salary support, fellowships, awards, and artist residencies.

“The leaders of Leela Dance Collective are dedicated to the future of our art form: to supporting our fellow professional dancers and musicians, to training the next generation of kathak artists,
and to artistic excellence with our field,” comments Leela Dance Collective Co-Artistic Director Rukhmani Mehta. “Currently, it is virtually impossible for kathak dancers and classical
Indian musicians to pursue a full-time career in their chosen field. This lack of infrastructure is directly tied to the legacy of colonialism, particularly the British dismantling of Indian artistic
and cultural traditions. We still feel the effects of these historical events more than a century later.”

In 2020, The Leela Foundation granted inaugural Artist Awards, providing direct support to some of today’s leading musicians.These first Artist Awards were presented to artists Jayanta
Banerjee, sitarist, musician and composer; Ben Kunin, sarod artist and senior disciple of the maestro, Ud. Ali Akbar Khan; Debashis Sarkar (posthumously), vocalist and musician; and Satyaprakash Mishra, tabla percussionist. In 2021 the fund supported three kathak dance artists: Gretchen Hayden, Joanna DeSouza, and Madhuri Devi Singh.

In 2022, The Leela Foundation supported bansuri artist Jay Gandhi (Hindustani flute). “A $1 million endowment is modest in the world of philanthropy and Western fine arts, but huge for
our field of Kathak and Hindustani classical music,” continued Mehta. “So many incredibly talented and acclaimed classical Indian dance and music artists struggle to support their artistry and lives financially. This endowment fund aims to provide artists with the support they need to thrive and advance these art forms. Without such support, these artists and artistic traditions are at risk. I know this is just the beginning for what our community can build together, to secure and grow the future of our art form. We are so incredibly grateful to the individuals and funders who have helped us reach this initial goal.”

“Leela Dance Collective is one of the very few professional touring companies elevating  classical Indian dance and music on the world stage,” commented Shirish Dayal, Executive Vice President of the Tarsadia Foundation. “We believe in their mission to advance and sustain cultural traditions and strengthen infrastructure for kathak dance and Hindustani classical music, and are proud to provide lead support for The Leela Foundation.”
Moving forward, each year 4% of the endowment’s market value will be distributed. The Leela Foundation aims to grow the fund annually through investment income, new donations, and/or bequests.

Endowment Patrons
Lead contributors to the Leela Dance Collective endowment fund include:
Tarsadia Foundation

Shruti Mahajan & Kashyap Deorah
Ushakant & Irma Thakkar
Dinesh & Shaila Mehta
Yogesh & Bina Nivas
Amar & Vinita Singh
Leah & Gary Schoolnik
Prabhu & Poonam Goel
For a list of Leela Dance Collective Board of Directors, click here.
About Kathak Dance & Hindustani Classical Music

Kathak dance and Hindustani classical music are the primary classical dance and music traditions of North India.The forms are inextricably linked. Both traditions have evolved side by side over several centuries. Kathak dance is traditionally performed to a Hindustani music trio or quartet. Exchange and improvisation between dancers and musicians are an integral part of
the performance; historically these forms were considered as one whole system of expression vs separate forms.

Hindustani classical music was born from a cultural synthesis of several musical streams: the vedic chant tradition dating back to approximately one millennium B.C.E., the equally ancient Persian tradition of Musiqi-e assil, and also folk traditions prevalent in the region. Hindustani music is an oral tradition and musical compositions are transmitted directly from teacher to student. Hindustani music has a rich vocal tradition and the major vocal forms associated with Hindustani classical music are dhrupad, khayal, and thumri. The form has also developed a  rich instrumental tradition including sitar, sarod, sarangi, bansuri, harmonium, tabla, pakhawaj and more.

Kathak is one of India’s eight classical dance forms and is said to have originated in Northern India around 400 BCE. The word kathak comes from the Sanskrit word katha, meaning story and a Kathak dancer is referred to as kathaka, the one who tells a story. Modern day Kathak is characterized by percussive footwork, swift pirouettes, dynamic movement, crisp stances, and expressive storytelling. Kathak dancers wear ghungroos, or ankle bells, that add musicality and ornamentation to their footwork and movements. Kathak is traditionally a solo art form that is performed along with live Indian classical music in an intimate setting. When studied, practiced and performed in its fullest capacity, kathak is ultimately a spiritual path to oneself, the world, and the divine.

About the Co-Artistic Directors of Leela Dance Collective

Rukhmani Mehta (previously Rina Mehta) brings a singular voice and vision to the art form of Kathak, classical dance of North India. She is a senior disciple of the legendary Kathak master, Pt. Chitresh Das, and was a principal dancer in his company, the Chitresh Das Dance Company, for over a decade. As Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of Leela Dance Collective, Mehta has created numerous original works that bring Kathak dance to contemporary audiences. These works include SPEAK, a Kathak-tap collaboration; Son of the Wind, a dance drama based on India’s epic, the Ramayana; and Encounters with Beauty, a collaboration between Kathak and contemporary chamber music.

She has performed at prestigious venues across the United States and India such as NC State Live, The Broad Stage, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Green Music Center, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, National Centre for Performing Arts Mumbai, and more. Her artistic works have been funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, New Music USA, California Arts Council, Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation, Zellerbach Family Foundation, and more. She has received the ACTA Apprenticeship Grant and has been twice nominated for an Isadora Duncan
Dance Award. Mehta is also Artistic Director of Leela Youth Dance Company, a pre-professional performing group that empowers young women to develop their voices and be artists and leaders. The Leela Youth Dance Company has been featured at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Philadelphia Youth Festival, and LA County’s Annual Televised Holiday Celebration.

Seibi Lee is a consummate kathak artist known for her powerful mastery, refined musicality,and dramatic brilliance in character portrayal. A distinguished disciple of Pandit Chitresh Das,she is one of the founders of Leela Dance Collective. Seibi has toured worldwide earning accolades and deep respect for her artistry, including an Isadora Duncan Dance Special Award and  two subsequent nominations. As principal dancer of the Chitresh Das Dance Company,Seibi evolved a singular perspective and style through the development of virtuosic character roles in several of Das’s critically acclaimed works, including the dual roles of the tormented demon Marich and beloved tribal prince Hanuman in Sita Haran. Her outstanding portrayal of Hanuman became the inspiration for the central character and creation of Leela’s Son of the Wind – the full-length dance drama bringing to life Hanuman’s rarely told heroic and valorous adventures from the epic Ramayana.

Rachna Nivas is a distinguished torchbearer of legendary master Pandit Chitresh Das’s  treasured lineage. She is a founding artist of the Leela Dance Collective, producing powerful works through the collective creativity of trailblazers in kathak. Rachna is co-creator of SPEAK, a kathak-tap collaboration, Son of the Wind, a traditional dance-drama, and Meera, a solo work based on one of India's greatest female poet-saints. Rachna's works have been featured on main stages across the U.S. including The Broad Stage, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kimmel Cultural Campus, and more. Her works have been funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, New Music USA, California Arts Council and Zellerbach Family Foundation. Prior to her work with Leela Dance Collective, Rachna was principal dancer with the Chitresh Das Dance Company, performing world-wide in the company's productions and receiving two nominations for an Isadora Duncan Dance Award.

Funding Credits 
Leela Dance Collective is supported by the California Arts Council, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, National Endowment for the Arts, and New Music USA.

Sikhs Second Most Targeted Religious Group In US For Hate Crimes

The FBI expanded its data collection to include additional categories of religiously motivated hate crimes, including anti-Sikh incidents as a response to advocacy efforts by organisations like the Sikh Coalition.

Today, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released its annual report of hate crimes statistics, reflecting information about hate crimes for 2022. The data reflect the highest-ever reported number of hate crime victimizations, with a 7 percent increase from 2021 to 2022.

Religiously motivated hate crime victimizations were at their highest since 2001, with an increase of 17 percent since 2021. Anti-Sikh hate crime victimizations were recorded by the FBI as the highest number ever at 198, and Sikhs still remain the second-most targeted group in the nation for religiously-motivated hate crime incidents. Victimizations were also on the rise for numerous other faith communities, with 1,217 anti-Jewish hate crimes, 200 anti-Islamic hate crimes, and 29 anti-Hindu hate crimes.

Picture: NDTV

In 2015, the FBI began collecting data about more categories of religiously motivated hate crimes (including anti-Sikh, anti-Hindu, and others) as a result of the Sikh Coalition’s advocacy.
We continue to believe that addressing hate remains an urgent policy priority in the United

States, and that Sikhs remain disproportionately under threat—due to our distinct and highly visible articles of faith as well as other intersectional aspects of identity.

We are encouraged that the White House consulted organizations like the Sikh Coalition to develop “Allied Against Hate: A Toolkit for Faith Communities” to help address hate crimes. However, this FBI data underscores the need for stronger initiatives by the federal government—especially as both international conflicts and divisive political rhetoric (in the United States and abroad) that demonizes marginalized groups continues to fuel more acts of hate against multiple different communities.

At the same time, as the Sikh Coalition has argued for years, the FBI’s hate crime data remains woefully incomplete so long as hate crime reporting is not mandated and undertaken with serious
care and standardized processes in law enforcement agencies across the country. This year’s data shows a fifth consecutive year of declines in law enforcement agency participation in the FBI’s
hate crime statistics program.

The Sikh Coalition and other leading civil rights organizations continue to document additional inaccuracies in hate crime reporting; as a reminder, federal-level estimates from the Bureau of
Justice Statistics put annual hate crime victimizations at 246,900, but this most recent data only captures 4 percent of that number.

Advocacy for federal and state policies that prevent, combat, and track hate crimes remains a top priority for the Sikh Coalition. We recently celebrated the passage of AB 449 in California, which will require every law enforcement agency across the state to adopt a hate crimes policy with detailed, specific protocols instructing officers on how to identify, respond to, and report hate crimes. Additionally, our flagship policy document, Combating Bias, Bigotry, and Backlash: Sikh American Civil Rights Policy Priorities, contains detailed recommendations for both Congress and the Biden Administration on how to improve, enforce, and gain better data from hate crime laws and policies.

Brathukamma Festival Celebrated At The Dayton Hindu Temple In Ohio

Over 600 people from across the state of Ohio, colorfully dressed in traditonal Indian attire came together to celebrate and be part of the Brathukamma Festival celebrations, Organized by Premalatha Kathula and the Board of Hindu Community Organization in Dayton. OH at the Dayton Temple in Dayton, Ohio on Saturday, October 21st, 2023. Women and children, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, participated in group dances like the Bathukamma dance, adding to the festive atmosphere.

“The presence of hundereds of participants in this beautiful floral festival was a wonderful experience,” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President-Elect of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin. “The coming together of the people of Indian origin from the North, South, East and West to celebrate the culture and festivities was an amazing and memorable experience,” he added.

The popular Dayton Hindu Temple, which was constructed in 1978, hosts Navaratri celebrations every year throughout this festive season, with every day of the colorful festive season is hosted by one particular community that takes the lead and organizes and celebrates the festival.

The festivities organized on October 21 st , 2023 by the Telugu community in the region, celebrated the Bathukamma, a vibrant and culturally rich festival in the Telangana state. This nine-day celebration steeped in tradition and history, was a joyous occasion that brings together communities to worship and revel in the beauty of nature.

Bathukamma Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration in the Indian state of Telangana and some parts of Andhra Pradesh. The festival typically lasts for nine days and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur. The Saddula Bathukamma is celebrated on the 9th day which is on the 22nd of October, Sunday.

Bathukamma is a Telugu word, “Bathuku”which means “life” or “alive.” It signifies vitality and existence. “Amma” is a term used in Telugu and many other Indian languages to refer to “mother” or a revered female figure. Bathukamma refers to “Mother Goddess” or “Life-Giver Goddess.” It symbolizes the worship of a female deity, often representing nature, fertility, and the source of life itself. The Bathukamma festival 2023 celebrates the goddess’s blessings and the vitality she brings to the land, especially during the harvest season.

The Bathukamma Festival 2023 began with the gathering of seasonal flowers and leaves from fields, gardens, and wild areas. Women and girls come together to create a colorful and intricate floral arrangement called “Bathukamma.” This arrangement is the centerpiece of the festival.

Each of the nine days of the Bathukamma festival 2023 has a specific name and ritual associated with it. Devotees perform various rituals, including prayers, songs, and dances around the Bathukamma. The rituals are dedicated to the goddess Gauri, who represents life and nature.Telangana festival Bathukamma is not just about flowers and rituals; it’s a cultural extravaganza.

Throughout the Bathukamma festival 2023, there were performances of traditional Telugu folk songs and dances.

The Bathukamma Festival 2023 is also a time to savor traditional Telugu cuisine. Special dishes are prepared and offered to the goddess as Naivedyam (food offerings). These dishes include sweets like bobbatlu and savory items like atlu (dosas). Bathukamma fosters a sense of community and togetherness. Women of all ages come together to create Bathukammas, sing songs, dance, and pray. It’s a time for families and friends to unite, reinforcing social bonds. Bathukamma promotes environmental consciousness. The use of seasonal flowers and organic materials in the floral arrangement is not only visually stunning but also eco-friendly. After the Bathukamma festival 2023, the flowers are traditionally immersed in water bodies, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Bathukamma has gained popularity as a tourist attraction. People from different parts of India and around the world visit Telangana to witness the grandeur of the celebrations and experience the unique culture of the region.

The Bathukamma Festival 2023 celebrates womanhood and empowers women to take the lead in cultural and religious activities. Women play a central role in the creation and worship of Bathukamma. The Bathukamma 2023 End date was on 22nd October 2023, which was the grand ending of the Bathukamma Festival 2023, known as Saddula Bathukamma or Pedda Bathukamma. On this day, the Bathukammas are immersed in local water bodies, symbolizing the goddess’s return to nature.

Bathukamma has ancient origins, dating back to the rule of the Chola Dynasty in the 3rd century CE. It was traditionally celebrated by women as a prayer for a good harvest and the well-being of
their families.

On the last day Ashwayuja Ashtami (Durga Ashtami) the grand culmination, Saddula Bathukamma or Pedda Bathukamma, is celebrated on the ninth day with a larger floral arrangement. It is the most significant and colorful part of the Bathukamma festival 2023, symbolizing the goddess’s return to nature.

Five types of rice and one sweet dish: Curd Rice, Lemon Rice, Tamarind Rice, Tamarind Rice with Coconut Powder, Tamarind Rice with Sesame Seed Powder and Malleda (Balls made with
chapati and sugar). These offerings are common, but there may be regional variations in the types of foods offered during the Bathukamma Festival 2023.

Regardless, these nine days are a time of cultural richness and spiritual devotion, celebrating the goddess and the harvest season. The Bathukamma Festival 2023 in Telangana is a spectacular
celebration of culture, nature, and community. It is a testament to the rich heritage and traditions of the region and serves as a beautiful expression of gratitude to the goddess for her blessings.

‘India Calling’

The Consulate General of India in New York, in collaboration with Shanti Fund, organized a special event called ‘India Calling’ on October 16, 2023, at the Walt Whitman Museum in
Huntington, New York.

This event paid homage to Walt Whitman, a renowned American poet, essayist, and thinker, who had a profound spiritual connection with India.

The ‘India Calling’ exhibit, housed at the Walt Whitman Birthplace Museum in Long Island, delves into Whitman's ties to ancient Indian philosophy. Walt Whitman's literary style was a fusion of transcendentalism and realism, earning him the title of the pioneer of free verse.

Among his notable works is the epic poem “A Passage to India” which spans2300 words and seven pages. In it, Whitman weaves together his romanticized visions of India with modern marvels like the transcontinental railway in the USA and the Suez Canal. He also celebrates India's unique contributions and its breathtaking landscapes.

The event drew a distinguished audience from the community, including Mr. Rakesh Kaul, Vice-Chair of the Indo-American Arts Council, who shed light on Whitman’s literary legacy and his
affinity for India. Cynthia Shor, Executive Director of the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association (WWBA), extended a warm welcome and provided insights into the activities of the WWBA.

Jo-Ann Raia conveyed greetings on behalf of the Board of Trustees of WWBA. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Randhir Jaiwal, Consul General of India in New York, spoke about Walt Whitman’s life, enduring influence, and his deep-rooted interest in India.

He also delved on the deep historic and philosophical and spiritual connects between India & the U.S. Mr. Arvind Vora of Shanti Fund expressed gratitude on behalf of the organization,
underscoring the significance of the event. The event was a testament to the enduring connection between Walt Whitman, India, and the rich tapestry of shared ideals and inspirations.

Synergy 2023, Celebrating Remarkable Achievements of ITServe Members

Summarizing what ITServe Alliance is and its remarkable growth, achievements, and contributions to the economy and to the nation, Vinay K. Mahajan, National President of ITServe Alliance put it this way: “We have more than 2,200 member companies, spread over 21Chapters, they generate 175,000 high paying jobs across the United States. Our members contribute almost $12 billion to the US GDP. We at ITServe Alliance are immensely proud of us that we are very successful. We are the voice for and are fighting for causes on behalf of the small and medium scale enterprises of IT industry, protecting our members’ interests. We give back to the community, and invest in startups, which is to help the United States maintain the leadership in innovation and technology.”

Synergy 2023, the annual flagship conference by ITServe Alliance, planned to be held from October 26th to 27th, 2023 at the popular Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey is a way of celebrating the success story of the 2,200+ ITServe member companies in the United States, who have achieved great success and are eager to share their expertise, skills, resources and knowledge, and be role models for others to emulate.

Under the banner “Come, Learn, and Grow,” a dedicated team under the able leadership of Venu Sangani has been working earnestly to elevate Synergy 2023’s brand and position it as the leading IT Staffing Conference in America.

Venu Sangani, Director of Synergy 2023 says, “Beyond being an arena for networking and knowledge sharing, Synergy 2023 aims to be a veritable marketplace for ideas and innovations. The event is curated to provide actionable insights and strategies that companies can directly implement, serving as a catalyst for taking your business to the next level.”

According to Vinodbabu Uppu, Chair of Board of Directors of ITServe, “Synergy 2023 is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy 2023 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

Designed to cater to the specific needs of ITServe members, primarily tech entrepreneurs, Synergy 2023 will host a plethora of crucial panel discussions. Topics will span from Immigration to CIO/CTO issues, Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Planning, and Political Action Committees, among others. Barbara Bruno will lead an educational session on “Mastering Effective Recruiting in Staffing,” while other sessions will focus on Contracts, Legal Compliance, and Federal Contracting.

“Synergy continues to add prominent speakers, and valuable sponsorships, and help grow a community network of industry professionals across the country,” said Amar Varada, Chair of Synergy 2023. “Participants at Synergy 2023 will have a platform for IT company heads to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staffing and Technology.”

Anil Atyam, Chair of Speakers for Synergy 2023 emphasized the curated lineup of speakers and panels. “We are thrilled to have a diverse and esteemed set of speakers for this year’s conference. From policymakers, and technology leaders to industry innovators, our speakers are pivotal in shaping the discussions and providing invaluable insights that can be immediately applied in various sectors of the IT industry. The selection process has been meticulous, ensuring that each session offers a blend of expertise, vision, and actionable advice for our members. The goal is to create a transformative experience for our attendees.”

On the opening day of the much-anticipated Synergy 2023, Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Forbes Media will deliver keynote address on “Leadership Lessons: The Stunning Parallels between Great Leaders of the World and Today’s Top Business Leaders.” This will be followed by a keynote address on, “Strategies for Scaling and Sustaining a Successful IT Company from One to 100 Million Plus” by Phaneesh Murthy, Founder & CEO of Primentor. The keynote address by Zack Kass, Technology Futurist, and Generative AI Solutions Specialist will focus on: “AI for Small Business Success: Navigating the Future of Entrepreneurship.”

Ashish Agarwal from Turbo Start, DVC will lead the Startup Cube Panel on “GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups.”  Post Lunch, a Financial Panel Discussion will explore “Alternative Investments for Diversified Business Portfolios and Funding Solutions for Diversified Growth.” The Breakout Session in the Afternoon will be on: “Mastering the Art of Effective Recruiting in the Staffing Industry” by Barbara Bruno.

“State, County, City, High-Ed & Federal Government Contracting: Opportunities & Challenges” will be yet another important topic at the Breakout Session in the afternoon and will be led by Nazeera Dawood, CEO of Vendorship.net. The M & A Panel Discussion will deliberate on, “Driving Growth and Value Through Strategic M&A: Opportunities and Challenges: Accelerating Business Expansion.”

Another important Breakout Session on the first day will be on, “Increase Cash Flow $$$ and Collect Bad Debt,” which will be led by Douglas Fuchs at Goldman, Evans & Trammell LLC.  Kevin O’Leary, a Venture Capitalist, Star of ABC’s Shark Tank will deliver the Evening keynote address on: “The Path to Profit: Strategies for Building a Successful Business.”

The morning of October 27th will begin with the keynote address on “Navigating the Financial Crises and Regulatory Landscape: Lessons Learned and Insights for IT Staffing Company Owners” by Sheila Bair, Former FDIC Chair.

Other sessions in the morning include a Startup Cube Finals on GTM Pitfalls Faced by Growing Startups, which will be led by Ashish Agarwal, Turbo Start, DVC. The Immigration Panel Discussion will focus on “Navigating Immigration Challenges and Policies.” The CXO Panel’s focus will be “The Evolving Role of IOs and CTOs in AI and ChatGPT Powered Digital Transformation.” Other panel discussions will address issues related to “Contracts And Litigations,” and “Direct Client Engagement in the World of Contingent Workforce.”

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, the Chief Guest at Synergy 2023 will deliver the Keynote address during an interactive session with ITServe members on October 27th evening. Ms. Clinton, the 67th Secretary of State of the United States has dedicated over four decades in public service as an advocate, attorney, First Lady, and US Senator.

A Special Guest Session at Synergy will be a “Dialogue with Yuvraj Singh,” a highly popular international Cricketer, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist. Synergy 2023 will conclude with a Live Musical Concert by Bollywood Playback Singer and Filmfare Awardee Kanika Kapoor.

During Synergy 2023, ITServe will honor high achieving Entrepreneurs with Leadership Awards. “Join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of our Members,” said Venu Sangani, Synergy Director for 2023. “ITServe Alliance proudly recognizes and honors companies that have demonstrated exceptional growth and success during a specific period. The ITServe Fastest Growing Company Awards are a testament to the impact of businesses that embrace innovation and strive for excellence.”

The ITServe Fastest Growing Companies Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates outstanding performance and remarkable growth in three categories: Small, Medium, and Large. Applicants are being evaluated based on their revenue growth over a three-year period to be chosen for these prestigious awards.

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country. For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

Survey Reveals Consistency and Diversity in Asian American Hindu Identity

A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center has shed light on the religious landscape within the Asian American community, with a particular focus on Hinduism. The findings provide insights into the faith and cultural connections of this demographic.

Approximately half of Asian American adults who self-identify as Indian continue to practice Hinduism, with 48 percent of respondents aligning themselves with this ancient religion. This statistic remains relatively stable compared to 2012 when it stood at 51 percent.

The survey also discovered that about one in ten Asian Americans now regard Hinduism as their religious affiliation, with 11 percent of respondents identifying as Hindus. This number has shown little change since 2012 when it was reported at 10 percent.

Furthermore, the survey revealed that 6 percent of all Asian Americans express a strong sense of closeness to Hinduism, often due to factors like ancestral or cultural ties. In total, two-thirds of Indian Americans either identify as Hindu or have a profound affinity for Hinduism.

Of those Asian American Hindus surveyed, one-third emphasized the importance of religion in their lives, while an additional 38 percent considered it to be somewhat important. The survey highlighted that approximately 31 percent of these individuals attend religious services monthly or even more frequently.

Hindus emerge as the group with the highest proportion among Asian American religious communities who incorporate altars, shrines, or religious symbols in their homes for worship, with a remarkable 79 percent adopting these practices. Among Hindus who place a high priority on religion in their lives, this figure rises to 89 percent.

Notably, approximately 92 percent of Asian American Hindu adults were born outside of the United States, representing the highest proportion of foreign-born individuals among Asian American religious groups.

In contrast, among religiously unaffiliated Asian Americans who feel a cultural closeness to Hinduism, a significantly higher percentage are born in the United States (35 percent) compared to those who explicitly identify as Hindus (8 percent).

When examining the socioeconomic status of Asian American Hindus, it becomes evident that this group exhibits remarkable achievements. A substantial 61 percent of them hold postgraduate degrees, in stark contrast to the 22 percent figure among all Asian American adults. Moreover, 44 percent of Asian American Hindus report a family income exceeding $150,000, which surpasses the 32 percent figure for Asian Americans as a whole.

The recent Pew Research Center survey has not only confirmed the resilience of Hinduism among Asian American adults who self-identify as Indian but has also highlighted the diversity within this community. While some strongly identify as Hindus and actively practice the religion, others feel a cultural or ancestral connection to Hinduism. The data also reveals that Asian American Hindus, as a group, have achieved remarkable success in terms of education and income, further enriching the complex tapestry of the Asian American experience.

“One Nation, One Election Concept By B.J.P. Will Disrupt The Democratic Process:” Anil Shashtri

Anil Shastri, son of late Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, was hosted by the I.O.C.U.S.A. in New York at Baldev Randhawa’s residence in New Rochell on September 28, 2023, to discuss current political dynamics in India. Mr. Shastri shared memories of his father and discussed the need to strengthen the I.O.C.’s hand to support the Indian National Congress party. He spoke in detail about how democracy is being diminished in India under Modi’s leadership and the importance of recapturing the letter and spirit of the constitution and saving democracy by defeating the ruling B.J.P. in the upcoming election.

“Unlike in last eight years, India’s electorate and young generation are now realizing their misperception of Narendra Modi’s rule, and re-election of B.J.P. for a third time could lead to a disaster. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi formed a broad coalition, “I.N.D.I.A.,” after winning states like Karnataka.” Mr. Shastri said. “Opposition parties like A.A.P., T.M.C., and NCP were reluctant to work under I.N.C.’s leadership before Karnataka elections. However, they now understood that Congress-led opposition with a one-on-one fight only can defeat B.J.P.,” he added.

He asserted that if any leader in India can answer Narendra Modi by looking into his eyes, it is Rahul Gandhi. Despite all the posturing, Narendra Modi is now afraid and feels threatened by the resurgence of the Congress Party. Anil Shastri criticized the B.J.P.’s “one nation, one election” concept, stating that simultaneous elections in the state and central governments would disrupt the Indian democratic process, potentially extending the President’s rule beyond six months, which needs a constitutional amendment and that the basic structure of Indian constitution is unchangeable. He criticized Modi’s government for deliberately using issues such as “one nation, one election,” etc., to divert the attention of the people from the real problems that they are facing. This is also a “Chunav ki jhumla” like depositing 15 lakh rupees in every citizen’s bank account.

Great leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastry and Jawaharlal Nehru thought their image would be magnified if the country’s image was built up. Contrary to that, Narendra Modi believes precisely the opposite, and Narendra Modi, as Prime Minister, used the recent G-20 sessions to build his own image, said Mr. Shastri.   He also advised the I.O.C. volunteers to use social media and other related technology to the maximum extent to change people’s perceptions in India by conveying reality and facts to them.

Anil Shastri recounted his father Lal Bahadur Shastri’s extraordinary determination, honesty, and hard work. He shared anecdotes about his father’s refusal to accept Russian and other countries’ aid during food shortages and his father’s determination to protect his self-respect as Prime Minister of India. Answering an audience’s question, Anil Shastri said that his father was so poor that he could not afford a boat ticket. He also rejected the free ride offer of the boatman and used to swim across the mighty Ganges to attend his school.

When asked why he swam, Lal Bahadur Shastri said to Anil Shastri, “When a person cannot protect his self-respect, he will not have the right to live.” Similarly, he said that he could not compromise with the self-respect of India by accepting money or any aid from other countries during a food shortage. He not only advocated but also gave up dinner once a week as a response to the food grains blockade by the major powers during the Indo-Pak war. The meeting commemorated the immense achievements of Lal Bahadur Shastri, such as the sowing seeds of the green revolution and the victory of the Indo-Pak war.

Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General, welcomed Shri. Anil Shastri and his wife Manju to the meeting. Mr. George Abraham, vice-chairman, described the goals and aspirations of the I.O.C. and emphasized the importance of close cooperation and dialogue. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, the President, introduced Anil Shashtri to the audience and lauded him for his dedication and commitment to the party.

Gurmit Gill Mulapur, Amar Singh Gulshan, Sophia Sharma, Dayan Naik, Sharath Chandra Vemuganti, Joshua John, Baldev Randhawa, Jose George, Paul Karukapallil, Thomas Koshy and Harry Singh also spoke.

John Joseph thanked host Baldav Randhawa for their generous hosting of the event and the Chief Guest Anil Shashtri and Manju Shastri for their kind presence.

Arya Samaj of Chicago Celebrates 200 Years of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Ji

Arya Samaj of Chicago land also hosted Mega Multikund Maha Yajna on Sunday, October 1st, 2023 at 700 Hillview Ave., West Chicago, IL. The event was a celebration of 200 Years of Maharshi Dayanand SaraswatiJi – An Uplifting Socio-Spiritual Celebration

The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long celebrations commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Maharishi Dayanand SaraswatiJi, at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi on February 12th, 2023 and it is echoed by all Arya Samajs around the world.

“When the British imposed the policy of appeasement on the Indians, Arya Samaj started the Vedic movement in the country. Arya Samaj has been a vibrant movement in India. There was a time when Arya Samaj was dominant from Basti to Karachi,” said the chief minister addressing the Golden Jubilee Mahotsav of Arya Samaj in Basti.

Maharshi Dayanand SaraswatiJi was born on 12th February 1824. Maharishi Dayanand SaraswatiJi was a social reformer who founded Arya Samaj in 1875 to counter social inequities prevalent during the times.  Maharshi Ji had played crucial role in the Indian Freedom movement, united all Hindus, Women Rights, Child Marriage, Important of Vedas. Arya Samaj has played a crucial role in the cultural and social awakening of the country through its emphasis on social reforms and education.

Ajay Gharia Ji and Ash Perti Ji along with Dr. Ashok MehtaJi and all board members of Arya Samaj of Chicago land had planned the Multikund Maha Yajna. Devotees from all over Chicago land joined the celebration and 21 families joined as Yajmans. It was a wonderful program with three havan kunds set outside. Dr. Kamlesh Chokshi Ji – One of the top scholars from India who retired as Director/Professor from Gujarat University had performed the Havan with vadic mantras. AsmitaJi and SarlaJi had sung the ardas/prayer. Pratibha Jairath Ji along with Shree Kamath Ji, Shaila Khedkar Ji and Jitendra Bulsara Ji sang the melodious bhajans. Dr. Ashok Mehta Ji, Ramesh Malhan Ji and Om Dhingra Ji had thanks everyone.

Remembering Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti

The members of Gandhi Memorial Foundation, Chicago celebrated Mahatma Gandhi Ji life on Gandhi Jayanti where the life-size monument of Gandhiji was located in the Heritage Park, Skokie, Illinois on October 02, 2023. Dr. Santosh Kumar, the President of Gandhi Memorial Foundation, Dr. Shriram Sonty, Vice President, Mr. Suresh Bodiwala, the Chairman, and Mrs. Dipti Shah, the treasurer of Gandhi Memorial Foundation along with invited guests,  Somnath Ghosh, the Counsel General of India, George Van Dusen, the Mayor of Skokie and State Senator Ram Villivalam, Dist. 8, Mr. Prayag Raj, Vedic Acharya and over fifty elderly seniors and staff members from Metropolitan Asian Family Services, Chicago, Niles, and Schaumburg sites got together there to honor and to pay homage to the Father of our Country Mahatma Gandhi, Bapu, with great love, enthusiasm and joy.

In his opening remarks, Counsel Gosh recognized Gandhiji as a political ethicist having an enormous impact all over India and the world. He proudly talked about the impact Bapu had on Martin Luther King, Jr. when he visited India in 1959. He stated that King, Jr. was greatly inspired by Gandhiji and accepted Gandhiji as his spiritual Guru, and acknowledged the fact that Gandhiji was one of the rare people who could say, “My life is my message.” Counsel also mentioned a book, “A Promised Land” written by Mr. Barack Obama when he was the President of the US. He emphasized that President Obama, in the book, talked about someone who asked him that in the entire sweep of human history, if he was to meet one person, who would he like to meet! President Barack Obama’s answer was Mahatma Gandhi.

Dr. Sonty Sriram remembered his visit last year to the Pietermaritzburg Railway Station in South Africa to be a part of Human Rights celebration where Mahatma Gandhi was a victim of racially discrimination and was forcibly removed from a first-class train compartment in 1893. Dr. Sriram sang Gandhi’s favorite Bhajan “Veshnav Jan to Tene re Kahiye je Peed Parayi jane re..e..” as well.

Mayor George Van Dusen recalled a memorable ceremony in 2004 when the life- size statue of Mahatma Gandhi ji “an icon to world peace” was introduced in Skokie Park, with about 1500 people in attendance and a hovering helicopter that dropped rose petals. A unique floral tribute to such an auspicious occasion!

Bodiwala emphasized the fact that Dr. Chandrakant Modi, a prominent member of South Asian Community, Chicago who put forth a great effort in 2004 for having the Gandhiji Statue at the Heritage Park, but because of his ill health, he was not able to join in the event.

All invited guests including the Senator Ram Villivalam and the members of Gandhi Memorial Foundation praised Gandhiji for the kind of man that he was, the man who dedicated his life to the struggle for freedom and justice, the man who advocated for the path of peace, truth, and self-sacrifice, the man who encapsulated the true spirit of humanity and nationalism, the man who drove away the mighty British Empire from India with his non-violent approach, and finally, a man who became famous as a Father of our Country India.

Promoting Gandhian ideals, Dr. Kumar asked everyone to uphold his principles in our personal and societal lives with “Simple living and high thinking” …one person, one town, one country, and finally the whole world can for sure. She gave an example of such a person and admired Dr. Sriram Sonty for living such a life and following Gandhi Bapu’s footsteps. Mr. Raj, Vedic Acharya added the spiritual element to what Dr. Kumar stated and asked everyone to read and follow the philosophy of Gandhiji’s beloved book Shrimad Bhagwat Gita.

MAFS seniors Mrs. Sudarshan Malhotra, Mrs. Rujuta Pancholi, Mr. Mohinder Vaid and others expressed veneration by singing a Bhajan/religious song that Bapu used to sing, “Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram..” with great zeal and liveliness. Mr. Vaid showcased Gandhiji’s three monkeys with words, explained the meaning of each monkey’s message, see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil.

Also, he sang a well-known Bollywood song, “Suno Suno Duniavalo Bapu ki ye Amar Kahani.” Mrs. Pancholi remembered Gandhiji as a legendary, historic Patriot who stood for social justice, equality, humanity, and self-reliance and concluded reflecting on Mahatma Gandhi’s famous quote, “You must be the change you want to see in the world.”

MAFS Managers, Mrs. Dipti Shah, Mrs. Jahnavi Bavisi, Mrs. Promila Mehta and Mrs. Mital Patel, with the help of other staff members, successfully managed the entire program very well, including making sure that everyone who was present at the Gandhi Memorial was provided tea and snack boxes as well. The event was concluded with a vote of thanks and appreciation to all by Dr. Santosh Kumar. (Photographs and Report by: Asian Media USA)

Indo-American Press Club’s 9th International Media Conference Held In Stamford, CT

Media Seminars, Workshops, Motivational Sessions, Awards Gala Dinner, Musical/Cultural Program by Hedge Group with renowned artist from India and the United States, and Networking were the key highlights of the 9th annual International Media Conference organized by the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) at the Hilton Stamford Convention Center in Stamford, CT from October 7th to 9th, 2023.

The theme for this year’s conference was “Bridging Borders: Media’s Role in a Globalized World,” a topic that holds immense significance in today’s interconnected and rapidly changing world. Dozens of media persons from the United States, Canada and India participated at the power packed conference which included workshops and panel discussions on social media influencing and defamation laws and a motivational talk by a corporate trainer on ‘Emotional Intelligence: How to Become a Success Magnet.’

In his inaugural address, Kamlesh C. Mehta, Chairman of IAPC said, “It is an absolute honor to stand before you as the Chairman of this prestigious organization. I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to address this gathering of media professionals, journalists, and distinguished guests. The Indo-American Press Club has always been at the forefront of promoting cultural exchange, fostering dialogue, and encouraging collaboration between India and the United States. This conference embodies our commitment to these ideals.”

Mr. Mehta said, “In the spirit of our conference’s theme, let us pledge to continue building bridges, not walls. Let us commit to facilitating open and honest dialogues that transcend boundaries and promote mutual respect. Let us strive for a world where information is a force for unity, not division. I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all the speakers, panelists, and participants who have traveled from near and far to share their insights and expertise during this conference. Your contributions will undoubtedly enrich our discussions and contribute to the growth of the Indo-American Press Club as a platform for constructive dialogue.”

The inaugural ceremony began with a welcome speech by IAPC General Secretary C G Daniel and was followed by the lighting of the lamp by IAPC leaders and local Chapter leaders. Ginsmon Zachariah, founder chairman of IAPOC administered the oath of office to a dozen new members, who joined IAPC as its new members.

Prof. Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, in her keynote address said, “This is a particular honor for me because I feel connected to this community and this work for two reasons. First, as the child of Indian immigrants, I see the world through a kind of duality of cultures. Culturally, my values reflect a South Asian immigrant household that recognizes the role of education in breaking down barriers, the role of communities in uplifting the individual, and the centrality of family in the background of every personal and professional opportunity. My values also reflect a commitment to democracy, equality, and justice that come from my lifelong engagement with the United States Constitution.”

Prof. Gadkar-Wilcox reminded the media persons that “Journalists provide the foundations of that democratic culture, by enabling facts to be presented, truths to be told, and vulnerabilities to be exposed. And you bring a particularly unique voice to this work, as I have learned that I bring to public life, because you live in this duality as well. You understand both global and local perspectives and you bring that intersectionality to life in your stories. Thank you for all that you do to help strengthen our democracy.”

According to Prof. Gadkar-Wilcox, “Journalism provides us an opportunity to strengthen human rights by strengthening our democracy. Journalism educates, it helps people relate to one another, and brings together those who may be different, but who can advocate for a common cause. Thank you for helping us all maintain that commitment to democracy and human rights! And thank you for educating the public!”

Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox is Chair of the Department of Justice and Law, and Associate Professor of Legal Studies at Quinnipiac University. She is also Executive Director of the Oxford Consortium for Human Rights and a Fulbright-Nehru Scholar. Sujata was recently appointed by Governor Ned Lamont to serve as a Commissioner on the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities in Connecticut (CHRO).

The first day of the conference came to a close with a colorful and thrillingly enjoyable  musical and dance extravaganza presented by RHYTHM 2023, led by Anna Prasad, Aishwarya Devan, Vidya Vinu Mohan, Abhijith, Kalpana (Choreographer) George (Keyboard) and Sunitha- Dance Co Ordinator. Jacob Abraham from the popular Hedge Funds Entertainment hosted the evening cultural show. The inaugural event on the first day ended with the Vote of Thanks proposed by IAPC Treasurer, Joji Kavanal.

In her keynote address during the Awards Gala, Meera Gandhi spoke about “The Role Of Media In A Polarized World”  and drew the attention of the audience to the fact that “Most news organizations today aspire to a goal of delivering quality information that can promote healthy dialogue among members of the communities some succeed better than others, but it’s more challenging to do this in a society today, in the midst of partisan, polarization, culture wars, foreign campaigns using technology platforms to divide, there is a shortage of moderate voices among political leaders, and no shortage of activists exploiting, extreme and divisive rhetoric “

Ms. Gandhi suggested 3 strategies to reach polarized audiences: “1.affirm a common sense of humanity deeply understand we are one consciousness, and one human connected by breath. This will affect your reporting; 2. story framing have conversations within your news rooms before putting out stories so that better framing could have power to deliver more truthful information to polarized audiences; and, 3. Do richer interiors. Avoid divisive, nuances and softer textures should be used to discuss potential problems in a non-divisive manner.”

Ms. Gandhi reminded the media persons that “The future of millions of people are in your hands you the press, the journalists, the media outlets, the O TP platforms – you have a very serious responsibility —do not handed over to demagogues and self-interest people. We are an amazing race let’s stay connected, undivided, happy and informed. You the journalist here today can make this happen. I salute all your efforts!”

Ginsmon Zachariah said, “IAPC members are dedicated to fulfilling the vision of enhancing their own journalistic skills, while striving to help fellow journalists and future generations work towards the common cause of enhancing the well-being and efficiency of all peoples of the world.”

In his welcome address, Ajay Ghosh, Secretary of the Board of Directors, IAPC said, “IAPC was formed to bring together media groups and the Indian media fraternity, across North America, under one umbrella, to work together, support one another, and provide a unified voice to the mainstream media world and the larger community.”

Among the distinguished guests who attended and graced the Conference included, Ms. Nimmi Mehta, Advocate A. Jayashankar, PP James, Editor in Charge at 24 News,  V. Aravind, Assistant Executive Editor at 24 News.

An IAPC souvenir 2023 was released during the Conference. Its editorial team led by Dr. Mathew Joys, a well-known writer and Columnist in North America, and Shan Justus, a tech expert presented the 1st copy to IAPC Chairman Kamalesh Metha. A book, “Padmasreeyum Swathanthryavum” by Joseph John from Calgary was also released during the Conference.

Social Media Influencer Awards were presented to: Korason Varghese, a columnist with Malayala Manorama, a leading Malayalam News; Dr. Alice Mathew, a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, known as an inspirational professor and a motivational speaker; and Meera Nair, a Cine actress, poet, dancer, writer, and media person. Joseph John Calgary, a freelance journalist and founding member of the Canadian Freelance Guild and CWA Canada was presented with Community Leader Award.

The Essay Competition Prize winner in Senior Category was Gautham Krishna Saji, 11th Grade Midwood High School, NY for his Essay on: PRESS FREEDOM IN DANGER. The winner in the in Juniors Category was Sameera Kavanal, 9th Grade, Yorktown High School, NY for her essay on: WHY I LIKE/DISLIKE SOCIAL MEDIA. Kaitlyn Dan Thomas, Grade 5 at the Calvary Christian School, Atlanta was given a Prize of Appreciation.

A lively seminar on “Social Media Influencers: Challenges & Scopes” moderated by Dr. Mathew Joys had Adv. Jayasankar, Korason Varughese, Joseph Jøhň (Calgary), Meera Nair, Dr. Alice Mathew, Nisha Jude, P P James and B Aravind as panelists.

Ashok Arora President NRI International Love All, Motivational Speaker, Author, Lawyer, Teacher, Human Rights Activist, Film Maker, and  Mediator offered a special presentation on Media and Legal Issues. Arora spoke in detail about the defamation case on Rahul Gandhi, and answered questions from the audience. Prof. Anil Bhatnagar, a motivational speaker inspired the audience with his power speech.

Able Cherian, a proud supporter of IAPC and coming from Dubai to be part of the Conference was felicitated with a Memento. Also, Regi Philip, Director IAPC, CEO GTE Travels on Stage was felicitated for his support to IAPC.  Felicitation by community leaders and IAPC members included: A. Jayashankar, Jacob Kudasanad, Sunil Manjanikkara and James Chacko. Azad Jayan from IAPC Niagara Chapter proposed the vote of thanks. The Conference was eloquently emceed by Aditi Vyas.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards were conferred during the closing gala on the evening of Sunday the 8th. The honorees who received the awards included:

  • VINAY MAHAJAN (Entrepreneurial Excellence). He is the National President of ITServe Alliance Inc., an association of 2200 + SME US IT companies.
  • Padma Shri H.R. SHAH (Media & Arts), Chairman & CEO of TV Asia Group.
  • MEERA GANDHI (Philanthropist). She is the founder of the Giving Back Foundation and a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor (2015).
  • Dr. SAMPAT SHIVANGI (Community service, medicine). A physician, he is a veteran leader of AAPI, recipient of the PBD Samman Award in 2016 and Ellis Island Medal of Honor 2008.
  • SHAJAN SKARIAH (Excellence in Journalism). He is a promoter and editor of the online portal “Marunadan Malayali”.
  • Dr. RENU ABRAHAM VARUGHESE (Excellence in Elder Care). She is an Associate Professor at the School of Health and Natural Sciences, Mercy University, NY.

IAPC was formed to unite the Indian diaspora media fraternity across North America under one umbrella to work together, support one another, and provide a unified voice in front of the mainstream media and the larger community. Every year IAPC hosts media conferences bringing together renowned journalists and media professionals from various countries around the world, and hosts workshops and seminars. For information regarding IAPC, please visit: www.indoamericanpressclub.org

Dr. Avinash Gupta Elected President Of FIA For 2024

Avinash Gupta, a distinguished Indian-American physician has been elected as the president of the Federation of Indian Associations of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut (FIA) for the year 2024.
FIA held its Annual General Body Meeting on October 4th, 2023 at Akbar Restaurant, Edison in New Jersey. Present on the occasion were the FIA’s board of Trustees, Senior Advisors Mr H.R. Shah & Dr Sudhir Parikh and the Executive Team along with others from different members associations.

Dr. Gupta, who currently holds the positions of Chief of Cardiology, President of Medical Staff at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, and Member of the Ocean County Board of Health, previously served as the Executive Vice President of FIA. He has now been elected as the President of this diaspora organization, a long-standing and extensive non-profit grassroots umbrella organization.

The newly unveiled executive team for 2024 includes Saurin Parikh as Executive Vice President, Smita Miki Patel as Vice President, Deepak Goel as 2nd Vice President, Priti Patel as General Secretary, Mahesh Dubal as Joint Secretary, Sanjeev Singh as Treasurer, and Haresh Shah as Joint Treasurer.

FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya expressed his appreciation for the hard work of the 2023 executive team. Gupta, reflecting on his experience as the FIA Vice President, described it as a valuable learning curve. He expressed his commitment to guiding FIA to new heights during his one-year tenure as president. Collaborating with his new team, Gupta aims to reinforce India-US relations.

Gupta’s vision encompasses several key objectives. He intends to champion the interests and well-being of the Indian diaspora in the United States. This will involve promoting cultural exchange and understanding, advocating for the community’s needs, and solidifying FIA’s role as a non-profit grassroots umbrella organization.

Furthermore, Gupta has articulated his dedication to social welfare projects and humanitarian initiatives. These efforts will not only support the Indian diaspora but also benefit the broader local community.

FIA, a venerable non-profit grassroots organization, revealed its 2024 executive team during its Annual General Meeting. Gupta’s presidency aims to enhance India-US ties, advocate for the Indian diaspora, promote cultural exchange, and engage in social welfare projects.

The newly elected President Dr Avinash Gupta said that he has learnt a lot this year during his tenure as the Vice President and thanked his team for all their support. He said that he looks forward to his tenure and would endeavor hard to take FIA to new heights with the support from his new Executive Team and was sure that all of them together will make their motherland India proud.

Dr Avinash Gupta said, he will work towards promoting the interests and welfare of the Indian diaspora in the US, fostering cultural exchange and understanding, advocating for the community’s needs, and strengthening the organization’s role as a non-profit grassroots umbrella organization. Dr Gupta will work on various social welfare projects and humanitarian efforts to support not only the Indian diaspora but also the broader local community.

Dr. Avinash Gupta, chief of Cardiology and president-elect of the medical staff at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus (MMCSC) in New Jersey has been elected the Executive Vice President of The Federation of Indian Associations. Current President Kenny Desai will continue in his 2nd term as the President of the FIA.

on Sunday, December 4th, 2023. The general body meeting was to share an overview of the compliance of all member organizations and to assess the overall workings of the FIA and its activities. In addition, the meeting motioned and approved 6 FIA resolutions to the FIA bylaws.

Dr. Avinash Gupta was awarded the Humanitarian Award in October this year, for his exemplary work in public health and social service during the pandemic, in the U.S. and in India. He is an alumni of the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi

In the U.S., Gupta led a team of 50 doctors and healthcare professionals to vaccinate 3,500 Indian Americans in Ocean County, New Jersey. As a president of Monmouth Country American Association of Physicians from India (AAPI), he helped raise $150,000 to Monmouth and Ocean County Food Bank. Gupta led the community leaders’ team in establishing the Siddhivinayak Temple and Indian Cultural Center in Toms River in 2012.

Dr. Gupta is very active in community service and has served as President of the Monmouth Ocean County Association of Physicians from India (MOCAAPI) and Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA).

He also holds the prestigious title of Chief of Cardiology at Monmouth Medical Center and President of the Medical Staff at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus.
He is chairman of Shree Siddhivinayak Temple of USA, Indian Cultural & Community Center in Toms River, and was recently elected as Executive Vice President of FIA.

Dr. Gupta was recently honored for his exemplary work in public health and social service, especially for COVID-19-related relief and humanitarian work in India and the US. “Being involved with community groups and helping others has always been my passion. Community service is very rewarding and fulfilling. It has enriched me as a person,” said Gupta who received the humanitarian award from the Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus Gupta at a function in New Jersey on Diwali eve.

Dr. Gupta is married to Dr. Geeta Gupta for over 35 years.  They have one son, Abhinav who is currently in his surgical residency. Dr. Gupta has made numerous contributions to healthcare, including initiatives both in the local area and in India to promote vaccinations against COVID-19. He was recognized as an honoree at MMCSC Humanitarian Gala in October last year.

FIA’s New Executive Team – 2024

President – Dr Avinash Gupta

Executive Vice President – Mr Saurin Parikh

Vice Presdent – Ms. Smita Miki Patel

General Secretary – Ms. Priti Patel

Jt. Secretary- Mr. Mahesh Dubal

Treasurer – Mr Sanjeev Singh

Jt. Treasurer- Mr. Haresh Shah

Immediate Past President – Mr. Kenny Desai

California Governor Vetoes Bill That Would Ban Caste Discrimination

California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill on Saturday that aimed to explicitly prohibit caste discrimination within the state. This legislation, which had gained approval from the California legislature the previous month, sought to identify caste as a subset of ancestry in the state’s civil rights laws, granting residents legal recourse in cases of caste-based discrimination.

India’s caste system, evolving over centuries, established a rigid social hierarchy based on ideas of purity, with an individual’s caste assigned at birth. Although India formally outlawed caste discrimination shortly after gaining independence in 1947, caste-based bias and inequality persist and have spread to other nations.

Picture: CNN

In his explanation for vetoing the bill, Newsom argued that it was “unnecessary” because the state already prohibited discrimination based on caste. He stated, “In California, we believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, no matter who they are, where they come from, who they love, or where they live. That is why California already prohibits discrimination based on sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and other characteristics, and state law specifies that these civil rights protections shall be liberally construed.”

Some groups, including individuals of Indian descent, opposed the California measure, contending that it unfairly generalized an entire community. While caste is most commonly associated with India and Hinduism, it has extended to other South Asian countries and religions.

In recent years, individuals who have experienced caste-based oppression in the United States, particularly in Silicon Valley where a substantial number of employees are South Asian immigrants, have begun to speak out about the discrimination they face.

A coalition of civil rights organizations, faith-based groups, and progressive legal scholars supported the bill’s effort to amend the state’s Fair Employment and Housing Act, the Unruh Act, and the Education Code to include “caste” and other aspects of ancestry. Nevertheless, the bill faced fervent opposition from some Indian Americans and Hindu organizations who argued that it unfairly stigmatized South Asians and Hindus.

Equality Labs, an advocacy organization representing Dalits, those at the lowest rung of India’s caste hierarchy, supported the bill. Despite Newsom’s veto, Equality Labs regarded it as a victory. Thenmozhi Soundararajan, Executive Director of Equality Labs, expressed, “While it is heartbreaking to receive the Governor’s veto, it is not a reflection of the incredible democratic power that our communities showed. We did the impossible. Caste-oppressed people have been mobilizing for years to fight against this form of historical violence and will continue to do so.”

Earlier in the year, Seattle became the first U.S. city to prohibit caste discrimination. Several higher education institutions, including Brown University, the California State University System, Colby College, and Brandeis University, have also incorporated caste protections into their nondiscrimination policies.

In 2020, California filed a lawsuit against the tech giant Cisco and two of its engineers, alleging discrimination against an Indian employee because of his lower caste status. Although the state later dropped the case against the two engineers, litigation against Cisco remains ongoing. Cisco stated at the time that it was dedicated to fostering an “inclusive workplace.”

Caste has been a contentious issue in California over the past two decades, particularly regarding the portrayal of Hinduism in textbooks. Some Hindu groups argued that proposed textbook language perpetuated bias and stereotypes against Hindus and lobbied for the removal or modification of certain references to the caste system.

Mixed Reactions After CA Governor Vetoes Caste Discrimination Bill

Reactions began pouring in thick and fast on Saturday as soon as California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed the controversial and groundbreaking caste discrimination Bill SB 403, a legislation that would have added caste to the anti-discriminatory clause of state law. It is no surprise that California’s Democratic Governor Newsom has shamefully vetoed the statewide bill that would have banned caste discrimination. Just days ago, Newsom (who is a multimillionaire himself) outrageously vetoed a bill backed by WGA, SAG-AFTRA, and other labor unions, which would have given unemployment benefits to workers on strike.

This veto on the bill to ban caste discrimination is not coincidentally coming at a time when US imperialism, led currently by President Biden and the Democrats, is courting the regime of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his far-right BJP.

In fact, the Biden administration has said that the Modi regime is a “linchpin” in the US agenda in the New Cold War. And the Hindu right-wing organizations, such as the Hindu American Foundation, which opposed the anti-caste-discrimination bill, are closely aligned with the Modi regime.

It’s clear that Biden and the Democratic Party care far more for the strategic relations of the American ruling class with the reactionary Modi regime than they do for oppressed-caste and other marginalized people.

This is a setback, and it’s important activists and working people learn the lessons and understand why we won in Seattle but not in California.

As Socialist Alternative and I have said since we won our historic first-in-the-nation Seattle legislation against caste discrimination in February, we won because we built a fighting struggle of rank-and-file activists and workers, not putting our faith in Seattle’s Democratic Party establishment.

Here in Seattle too, Democrats, including self-described progressive ones, were initially opposed to our bill, some of them repeating Hindu right-wing talking points.

Seattle Democrats were forced to vote YES only because of the strength of our grassroots, working-class campaign. If anything, given the high stakes in a prominent state like California, such a fighting strategy was even more necessary.

Unfortunately, the NGOs that led the California effort failed to take this approach. They instead worked in collaboration with Democratic politicians, and refused to build a fighting campaign.

Ajay Shah, Convenor, HInduPACT and President of World Hindu Council of America (VHPA) said: “When politically motivated California assembly and senate succumbed to an 18-year long systematic multi-pronged attack engineered by forces inimical to Hindus in various forms, Hindus kept their struggle for truth, justice and equality alive. Today, we thank Gov. Newsom for rejecting Hinduphobic SB-403.  SB-403 would have targeted Hindus kids in the elementary schools and Hindu professionals and business owners.  It would have led to the bullying of Hindu children and baseless and yet relentless persecution and prosecution of Hindu professionals as we have seen in the CISCO case.  I want to especially remember community organizer Milind Makwana who sacrificed his life as he fought against this Bill”

Rakhi Israni, HinduPACT Executive Director, Legal said:  “We are grateful to Governor Newsom for standing up for the privacy of Californians.  SB-403 would have made it easier for companies to collect and sell our personal information without our knowledge or consent. This is a critical issue, and we appreciate the Governor’s leadership in protecting our privacy. Governor Newsom’s veto of SB-403 is a victory for privacy. It sends a clear message that California will not stand for companies that track and sell our personal information without our consent. We urge the Legislature to sustain the Governor’s veto.”

Amitabh Mittal, General Secretary of World Hindu Council of America (VHPA) said:  “Thank you, Gov Newson, for vetoing this draconian bill that attempted to harass and divide the entire Hindu community under  the garb of a non-existent “caste” issue in the US.  Congtulations to all Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain American Community members for this crucial victory.  We’re proud of all the Leaders who worked relentlessly to make it happen.  Nefarious designs of hate, divide and destroy have no place in these United States.

Tejal Shah, Convenor of HMEC (Hindu Mandir Empowerment Council), an initiative of World Hindu Council of America (VHPA), representing hundreds of North American temples said: “The impact of SB-403 on the Hindu temples and culture would have been devastating. Chanting of Sanskrit mantras during prayers would have been construed as castetist act.  Today, we thank Gov. Newsom for protecting the right of Hindus to practice their religion in privacy and freely.”

Newsom’s veto of these pro-working-class and anti-oppression bills is a reminder, once again, of how the Democratic Party is as tied to the interests of the ruling class as the Republicans are. Working people and those fighting against caste discrimination and other forms of oppression need to build independent movements and fight to build our own political organizations, because the Democratic Party is a graveyard of social movements.

Indian American Kerala Cultural And Civic Center Announces Award Winners For 2023

The Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center will honor eight Indian Americans for their outstanding achievements in their field of specialization and for their service to the society at its 31st Annual Awards Banquet to be held on October 28, 2023. Government officials and leaders from the USA and India are expected to attend this prestigious event.

“The Kerala Center has been honoring outstanding achievers since 1992. Every year we invite nominations and the committee has to make a unanimous choice for a candidate in a category to receive the award and this year is no different from previous years in terms of their achievements,” said Dr. Thomas Abraham, Kerala Center’s Trustee Board Chairman and Award Committee Member.

“Kerala Center is very happy to honor American Malayalees who excel in their professions and who work for social progress — their examples should be an inspiration for others,” said Dr. Madhu Bhaskaran, Chairman of the Board and Award Committee. This year’s honorees include: Dr. Shyam Kottilil (Baltimore, MD) – Life Time Achievement Award; Sajeeb Koya (Pickering, Ontario, Canada) – Entrepreneurship; Dr. Anna George (Long Island, NY) – Nursing; Shelby Kutty (Baltimore, MD) – Medicine; Ajay Ghosh (Trumbull, CT) – Media and Journalism; Lata Menon (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) – Legal Services; Jayant Kamicheril (Reading, PA) – Pravasi Malayalam Literature; and Gopala Pillai (Dallas, Texas) – Community Service.

The awardees will be honored at the Kerala Center’s 31st Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 5:30 pm at the Kerala Center, 1824 Fairfax St., Elmont, New York. There will be variety entertainment programs and a fabulous dinner for the evening. Dr. Madhu Bhaskaran was the Award Committee Chairman and the other members were Dr. Thomas Abraham, Daisy P. Stephen and Varkey Abraham. Kerala Center President Alex K. Esthappan said that the Center has recognized over 170 American Malayalees in the last 31 years and it is great to see that they have continued to rise further in their careers and serve the society. All are invited to join this Annual Award Banquet honoring the awardees.

Please contact the Kerala Center to reserve your seats at: 516-358-2000 or at email: [email protected].     Please contact: Alex Esthappan, President at 516 503 9387, Thambi Thalappillil, Executive Director at 516 5519868, Raju Thomas, General Secretary at 516 434 0669.

Dr. Shyam Kottilil – Life Time Achievement Award

Dr. Shyam Kottilil is a world renowned virologist and immunologist who has made pivotal contributions in the field of Hepatitis and HIV. He is currently the Interim Director of the Institute of Human Virology in Baltimore, MD, the first and foremost Virology Institute in the world. Dr. Kottilil has had an illustrious career with over 350 major publications, as well as awards and accolades from premier societies in Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and the National Institutes of Health.

Sajeeb Koya – Entrepreneurship

Sajeeb Koya, a North American Malayali, is the man behind the LED Façade lighting that lights up Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Sajeeb and his team are proud to be part of this project which owns 2 Guinness World Records. His company 3S International Inc., which has its headquarters at Pickering (Ontario, Canda), has executed  numerous vibrant Architectural and Media Façade LED projects all over the world. People just see lights as utilitarian, whereas Sajeeb sees multitude of colors, shades, movements, and blends the beauty of light with technology.

Sajeeb Koya hailing from Trivandrum, is an Electrical Engineer graduated in 1987 from CET Trivandrum. He has held key positions with several Multi Nationals before starting his own business in Canada in 2001. He lives with his family at Pickering, Ontario, Canada. He is very active since childhood in the fields of photography, music and acting. He is currently involved in key positions with several community & charity organizations.

Dr. Anna George – for Nursing

Dr. Anna George is the current President of the Indian Nurses Association of New York (INANY). She is a Nurse, a nurse practitioner, human rights advocate, and a social activist. She works at Molloy University as an Associate Professor, teaching the Nurse Practitioner Track and as a Nurse Practitioner at Northwell Health.

Dr. Shelby Kutty – Medicine

Dr. Shelby Kutty is a physician scientist and academic leader, serving as the Helen B. Taussig endowed professor and director of pediatric and congenital cardiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He also chairs the analytic intelligence program at Johns Hopkins. One of the world’s preeminent experts on multimodality cardiovascular imaging with over 400 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Kutty is passionate about patient outcomes and evidence-based assessment of new technologies.

Ajay Ghosh – Media and Journalism

Ajay Ghosh is the Chief Editor and Co-Publisher of The Universal News Network (www/theunn.com). He serves as the Media Coordinator for the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) and ITServe Alliance. Ajay was the founding President of the Indo-American Press Club and is its Secretary, Board of Directors. Prior to coming to the United States, Ajay was the Chief Editor of The Voice Delhi and contributed articles to several national publications in India. In the United States, starting his journalistic career as a reporter in 1999 for India Post, he had worked as the New York Bureau Chief of Indian Reporter and World News, and worked as the New York Bureau Chief of India Tribune, a weekly newspaper published from Chicago. Ajay served as the Executive Editor of NRI Today and was the Bureau Chief of The Indian Express, North American Editions. Ajay has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI and a Social Work Degree (MSW) from Delhi University.

Lata Menon, Esq. – Legal Services

An accomplished Barrister and Solicitor and active community member, Lata Menon has become a recognized name in the legal community in Ontario, as well as the Indian states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala, where she practiced as a lawyer before immigrating to Canada. In addition to her professional activities as a lawyer, Lata devotes her time to the community at large and has become an active supporter and champion of women’s equality and rights. She is actively engaged in several social and community programs in her capacity as a Founder, Board Member, Secretary, Legal Advisor, and many other positions. As a professional, Lata has touched the lives of several of her clients who came to her in distress when faced with family discord, domestic violence, abuse, and family disputes, which she has influenced many of her clients to pull their lives together and persevere in the face of adversity. Lata’s achievements and success makes her a true leader, mentor, formidable force, influence, and inspiration to many.

Jayant Kamicheril – Pravasi Malayalam Literature

Jayant Kamicheril is a recipient of Kerala Sahithya Academy award for 2022 for his book “Oru Kumarakom Karantay Kuruthamketta Likhithangal”. He won LANA Award in 2019 for his book: Kumarakathu Oru Pesaha. His essays and stories in English and Malayalam have been published in N. America and India. He lives in Reading, PA with wife Anita Namboodiri and they have two daughters – Aloka and Shreela.

Gopala Pillai –Community Service

Gopala Pillai has served as the President and Board Member of several organizations in CultureTexas and Detroit, and has been with the World Malayali Council from1995 as its Secretary, President and Chairman. Through these organizations he has been able to provide many services for the good of society. His life’s work reflects his unwavering commitment to both the local community in the USA and the betterment of the less privileged in Kerala, India. He has degrees in Economics, Journalism, and Computer Science, pursuing a successful career in Information Technology in the USA since 1975.

Hari Om Mandir Fundraiser For Community Services, Future Expansion Projects Held

Hari Om Mandir, Medinah, IL hosted the Annual Fundraiser Dinner, at the Pearl banquet, Roselle, on Sept 16, 2023. Patrons, Founder Members, Devotees, Community Leaders from various Social Organizations, joined hands to raise Funds for the cause of Community Services, Growth & Development, Future Expansion Projects of the Mandir.

The gala evening started off with a red-carpet Welcome for all the Guests who attended the Program. A huge Backdrop with the Mandir Logo was set up at the Entrance, and it was an honor to be clicked there for a memorable evening. Photographers were ready to roll their cameras and capture every guest who walked in…exhibiting their best attire and joyous mood! Very soon the venue became a hot favorite for friends and families to take pictures and make their presence at the function, a day to remember.

The program formally started with an auspicious Diya Lighting Ceremony, amidst chanting of Mantras by the Mandir Priests: Acharya Ram Naresh Vajpayee & Shastri Dharmender Bhatt. Chaiman BOT, Brij Sharma, President EB, Vipan Wadhera, Chairman FundRaising Committee, Anil Saxena and Prem Salwan from Salwan Trading lighted the lamp and the program was kicked off with a bang.

Emcees of the Evening, Pratibha Jairath and Mona Sharma welcomed one and all and spelled out the grand Entertainment lined up for the evening. Classical Dance, Bollywood Singing, Rajasthani Folk Dance- Ghoomer, Punjabi Giddha etc was all included in the packed Variety Program. Pratibha Jairath and Dr Pradeep Sood were the Star Singers of the evening, who enthralled the audiences with their melodious songs – all time old favorites down the memory lane, as well as the fast modern upbeat numbers. Very soon, Couples were on the Dance Floor swaying on slow Vault Dancing songs. Finally, just as Dr Sood sang the all-time hit Punjabi songs, the Floor was filled with people dancing away to glory!!!!!

Anil Saxena, Chairman Fund Raising, outlined the purpose of the evening and gave a brief update on the ongoing Project from 2022 – Hanuman murti. He shared the progress made on the project from last year, and the remaining funds required for completion. He thanked everyone for their past donations and requested people to continue with their generosity to help Mandir in achieving its goals.

Vipan Wadhera, President Executive Board, emphasized the significance of the Temples today as a source of preserving our roots of Indian spirituality, Values, Heritage & Culture. Collective Prayers in the Temples generate positive Vibes and provide mental peace and solace to everyone who visits the temple. He made a final appeal for Donations to help the Mandir in conducting Community Service Programs like Medical Camps, Food Drives, Yoga Camps etc, Mandir Growth & Dev Projects. He thanked all Members of the Board and Devotees, who helped him throughout the year for organizing programs, celebrating all Festivals with enthusiasm. No Donation is Small – Every Penny Counts!!!

The fun filled evening concluded with a sumptuous dinner and open dance Floor. The President thanked all the donors and finally announced the success of the evening Target Collection had been achieved and a big thank you to all for attending.

Mahant Swami Maharaj’s 90th Birth Anniversary Celebrated At BAPS New Jersey

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj honored with a garland on his 90th birthday celebration at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ. / BAPS

Hundreds of devotees recently gathered at BAPS Robbinsville, New Jersey to celebrate their spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj’s 90th birthday. The celebration coincided with the Festival of Inspirations, a three-month extravaganza commemorating the opening of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville. 

Speaking at the event, Yogananddas Swami emphasized Mahant Swami’s empowering words, which have catalyzed the spiritual and personal development of countless souls. The attendees, shared how personal letters written to them by Swami Maharaj shaped their lives, offering guidance and support.

World leaders and spiritual luminaries also shared their unique experiences with Mahant Swami Maharaj through video messages. Anandswarupdas Swami highlighted Mahant Swami Maharaj’s consistent humility by describing his role as a servant, even when held in high esteem as a divine being. Mahant Swami Maharaj showed why he is so beloved by shifting attention away from himself and onto the more senior swamis on the day that was meant to be a celebration of his life. 

The senior swamis returned the favor by praying earnestly for him and presenting him with individual garlands to mark the occasion. In his concluding remarks, Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “The grandeur, divinity, and tranquility that visitors experience here are the fruition of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s divine vision. Taking a  mere fifteen minutes daily for introspection encapsulates all the spiritual wisdom we attain.” “This 90th birthday celebration served not only as a tribute to a revered soul but also as an inspiration for countless others to lead a life of humility, love, and service,” the release maintained.

IACA Honors Heroes For Their Commitment To The Community

IACA celebrated its Gala Event, on Sunday Sept 10th, 2023 at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, IL. The unity in diversity and cultural pride diverse cultural troupes, celebrated with pride on stage. Youth IACA’s special performance showcased IACA’s mission and work over the years. IACA honored its Heroes for their immense bravery, dedication and service to the community. Incredible heroes walk among us delivering kindness and making a difference every day. Mesmerizing performance by Udaan Entertainment from Mumbai. Their orchestral performance was beyond excellence that touched everyone’s heart. All the singers had such soulful voices.

The Event was graced by Consul, Mr. Vinod Gautam, Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, FIA Founder/President, Mr. Sunil Shah, Vandana Jhingan Ji, Mrs. Meghna Bansal – Trustee, Wheatland Township, Mr. Ajit Pant, Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, Mrs. Madhu Uppal, Mr. Haribhai Patel Ji, Dr. Umang Patel Ji, Mrs. Neel Patel – Assistant Director, Ray Graham Association, Mr. Sohan Joshi, Dr. Jayashree Raju and many more well-known dignitaries from Chicagoland area.

Among the Veterans and Law and Enforcements officers honored were, Mr. Raj Pillai US Navy Veteran, Mr. James Mendrick DuPage County Sheriff, Mr. Kevin Coyne – Founder and CEO of Safe Suburbs USA, Mr. Mike Geiger – Naperville Police Officer, Mr. James “Casta” Castaneda- US Marines Veteran, Mr. Michael Tellerino- Founder and CEO, K9’s for Veterans, Mr. Jerome “Sonny” Zdancewicz- US Army Veteran (7th Cavalry Regiment).

The event was joined by IACA’s Executive Board Members Vinita Gulabani – President, Mr. Sohan Joshi-Chairman, Raj Narayan-Vice President, Shanu Sinha -Secretary, along with Executive Directors, Kamlesh Kapoor, Anita Sood-Beri, Pratibha Jairath, Manika Kumari, Nisha Sinha, Rahul Wagh, Pallavi Mantri Wagh, and Sudha Jaiswal.

Youth IACA Club has been formed under IACA umbrella, to get our children educated about both Indian and American Cultures through their cultural classes being conducted in the libraries and also to get our youth involved in Volunteering Services in our Community. Youth IACA kids showcased IACA’s mission and cultural education through a mesmerizing Skit, that got the audience applaud and appreciation. All kids were awarded with certificates and medals following their skit. The Youth IACA kids who participated in the Skit were, Ria Raj, Nysa Ranjan, Ridhima Bembey, Simran Kaur, Shlok Jaiswal, Shrey Jaiswal, Abhishek Rasalkar, Shivi Prabu, Nishika Dubey, Nithik Wagh, Niya Kaushik, Saarth Kaushik and Yukta Matcha.

The evening started with Indian and American National Anthems sung by Nipa Shah and Samaira Bongale and later followed by some cultural programs. Children presented colorful cultural performances and entertained the event paying respect for both the countries & cultures. Udaan Entertainment from Mumbai took over the stage later with their magical singing performance.

The program ended with a Vote of thanks by Treasurer, Richa Pal. Thanks to all the folks who supported IACA with their sponsorships/donations to help continue IACA’s mission in the community. The evening was wrapped up by expressing gratitude of thanks to the community for their continued support.

India Warns Indian Nationals In Canada As Tensions Escalate

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued an advisory urging Indian nationals in Canada and those planning to travel there to exercise caution on September 20. The warning was issued in response to allegations that New Delhi was involved in the murder of a Sikh separatist in Canada.

“In view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution, “ the advisory read. 

It also brought attention to the fact that Indian diplomats and other members of the Indian community who opposed the anti-India agenda have been the direct targets of threats. As a result, citizens of India were cautioned against visiting parts of Canada where such incidents had taken place. 

The advisory emphasized Indian students to be extra cautious due to the worsening security situation in Canada. The safety of the Indian community in Canada would be ensured through regular communication between the Indian Consulate General and local authorities, it stated.

For better communication between the High Commission and the Consulates General with Indian citizens in Canada in the event of an emergency or incident, it was also suggested that Indian nationals and students register with the High Commission of India in Ottawa or the Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver via their respective websites or the MADAD portal (madad.gov.in.). 

World Heart Day, September 29
Heart Disease Among Indian Diaspora

An Interview with Indo-US Resuscitation Advocate: Vemuri S Murthy, MD
Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death and disability among people of Indian origin. The CVD epidemic in Indians is characterized by a higher relative risk burden, an earlier age of onset, higher case fatality and higher premature deaths. For decades, researchers have been trying to understand the reason for this increased burden and propensity of CVD among Indians.
September 29th every year is marked as the “World Heart Day.” Dr. Vemuri S Murthy, in an exclusive interview with our readers, talks about the factors causing Cardiovascular Diseases, the ways to prevent it, and the available treatment modalities.
Picture : TheUNN

Odisha is the first Indian State to officially launch a statewide CPR training project (community, police, and high school/college students), which was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Mr. Naveen Patnaik in Bhubaneswar on February 2, 2023, supported by Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations, Odisha, and Sri Jagannatha Service Foundation,

Dr. Murthy is an Associate Professor (Adjunct) in Emergency Medicine at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA. He is an Honorary Advisor (CPR) to the Government of Odisha (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) and a Visiting Professor to Indian Medical Institutions such as AIIMS (Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh).

A longtime American Heart Association (AHA) International Training Center Faculty and Advisor, Dr. Murthy has been involved with teaching and training Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support courses and Community Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) initiatives for more than two decades in India and USA. He has also been involved with Indian Cardiac Arrest Research Projects affiliating with Indian Resuscitation experts.

Q. Good morning, Dr. Murthy. We are happy to have you with us today to discuss the number one Global Killer “Cardiovascular Disease” with a focus on Indians and Indian diaspora on the occasion of the “World Heart Day” on September 29.

A. Thank you! As you may be aware, “World Heart Day” is a global, multi-country, multi-lingual celebration day that was initiated by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in 1999 in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness of Heart Disease and reminding everybody “to take care of their Hearts.” The theme for World Heart Day 2023 is “Use Heart for Every Heart”.

Q. Can you elaborate on the impact of Heart Disease in the World and India?

A. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is a disease of the Heart and the Blood Vessels leading to Heart Attack, Stroke, and Heart Failure, resulting in the deaths of about 20.5 million people annually in the world. 80% of these deaths are preventable.

According to the Cardiological Society of India (CSI), 36% of deaths in India are due to heart disease. The incidence of heart disease among Indians is 50-400% higher than other ethnic groups. About 50% of heart attacks occur in Indian men under the age of 50 years. 25% occur under 40 years. Indians (as South Asian Ethnic group) are more susceptible to heart disease than any other ethnic counterparts. More than 4200 sudden cardiac arrests occur per one lakh of the population in India annually, heart disease being the major contributor. 30-40% of these deaths occur between 35-64 years of age.

Q. What is the difference between a “Heart Attack” and a “Cardiac Arrest”?

A “Heart Attack” is due to obstruction of blood flow (block) in the Heart’s blood vessels (coronary arteries). The heart muscle starts dying quickly after a heart attack. A heart attack can lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death. Sudden Cardiac Arrest, SCA, (stoppage of the Heart) is Heart’s electrical activity failure due to several causes, primarily a heart attack.

Q. What are the other causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Besides a heart attack, sudden stoppage of the Heart can happen due to congenital abnormalities of the Heart, such as “Cardiomyopathies” (involving the heart muscle), valves and blood vessels of the Heart, infections of the Heart and electrolyte abnormalities (esp. Potassium and Sodium), drug overdose (Narcotics like Fentanyl, Cocaine and recreational street drugs), and sudden “injury or blow” to the chest (Commotio Cordis).

Commotio Cordis needs a special mention here. It’s due to sudden impact injury to the chest seen commonly in sports such as Cricket, Baseball, and Hockey. I can quote several anecdotes about Commotio Cordis (Sudden Cardiac Arrests) that were managed immediately on the spot with Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) with complete recovery. It’s sad to see anybody of any age dying due to Sudden Cardiac Arrests due to lack of immediate “simple” help through “Bystander Hands-only or Compressions-only CPR.”

Q. How do you recognize a “Heart Attack”?

A. A “Classical” Heart Attack seen in the majority of people (especially men) is experienced as chest pain (mild, moderate, or severe) or discomfort (pressure or squeezing sensation) that radiates to the left shoulder, arm, back of chest, jaw/teeth. It may or may not be associated with sweating, nausea, dizziness, heartburn, or shortness of breath. Rarely, during “Silent Heart Attacks,” none of these symptoms may exist or are minimally experienced.

Heart attacks in women need special attention. Most women experience “shortness of breath” instead of chest pain, which is common in men. This is an important evidenced-based information in light of the known fact that women’s heart attacks are under-addressed, under-diagnosed, and under-treated globally.

Q. How do you know if somebody is in Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

A. Firstly, any person of any age can have “Sudden Cardiac Arrest” anywhere and at any time.

From a layperson’s perspective, a person collapses suddenly, becomes unconscious with minimal or no breathing, and has no pulse. Prior symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath, vomiting, etc. may or may not be present.

Q. What happens if nothing is done immediately?

A. If no immediate emergency bystander help is available, the person will die in a few minutes. Our body needs oxygen all the time. In cardiac arrest, there is no blood supply and oxygen to any of the organs. The brain is most susceptible to lack of oxygen and starts “dying” in a few minutes much ahead of other organs. In most cases, the brain is “irreversibly damaged” in about 10 minutes or less without oxygen. The proportion of brain damage depends on the delay in commencing the CPR to restart the Heart and reestablish blood supply to the brain.

Q. What is Bystander CPR? What is the science behind it?

In most Adults, there will be some amount of oxygen left in the body for about 4-5 minutes after cardiac arrest for survival with or without brain damage. With regard to “Bystander Hands-only or Compressions-only CPR”, there is enough evidence-based information to support the fact that only chest compressions (100-120 per minute in the center of chest) performed by bystander in the initial few minutes of cardiac arrest will be as effective as “Conventional CPR” performed with both compressions and breaths (30 compressions and two breaths sequence). Beyond 4-5 minutes or so, “breathing for the victim” is vital in addition to chest compressions. In infants, children, and persons with heart and lung conditions, drug overdose, and drowning, “Conventional” or “Compressions plus Breaths” CPR is needed for survival. Without immediate CPR, 90% of the victims die. Bystander CPR increases the chances of the victim’s survival two to three times. Using an electrical device called “Automated External Defibrillator” (AED) soon with CPR will increase survival rates of the victims significantly.

Q. How to get trained in CPR?

A. The lifesaving Bystander CPR technique and using an AED are easy to learn. Taking a “CPR Training” class from any authorized organization is necessary. There are also videos available to teach the basics of Hands-only CPR. It is also essential to follow Governmental “Good Samaritan Laws” for liability protection while providing any emergency help.

Q. Are there any specific precautions for Bystander CPR during COVID-19 era?

A. Certainly! CPR is an aerosol (droplet)-generating procedure. Safety precautions must be taken for personal protection. Cover your and victim’s mouth and nose with any readily available face cover, cloth/mask before starting CPR. Thorough handwashing with soap and water should be done after providing CPR help. From the currently available information, the chances of getting infection while performing CPR are very minimal or insignificant.

Q. What are your thoughts on the progress and advances in the arena of Resuscitation in India in recent years?

Having been involved with Indian Resuscitation Medicine teaching, training, and research for some time, I am happy that India is making significant advances on several fronts of Resuscitation Medicine.

First, the academic curriculum in Indian Medical Colleges includes “Mandated Resuscitation” training for Medical Students, Residents, and Nurses. The training faculty has been providing Resuscitation Training in Governmental and Private Medical colleges. Some of the Institutions are also utilizing advanced simulation technology.

The Indian Government (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) recently introduced comprehensive “Provider Course for Training Doctors in Trauma and Non-trauma” viz. mandatory “National Emergency Life Support” Courses for graduating Medical Students, Residents (Physicians) and Nurses. This is a commendable initiative for Indian Medical Educational System as the course curriculum, tailored to India, was developed by the experienced Indian Experts.

Community, Paramedic, High School and Police CPR trainings have peaked in recent years, thanks to the efforts of Indian Institutions such as EMRI (Emergency Management and Research Institute), Indian Resuscitation Council (IRC) and many other Indian Organizations. IRC became an official member of the ILCOR (International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation) recently. Medical Institutional affiliations such as the AIIMS -American Heart Association (“Nation of Lifesavers in India” Project) are making rapid progress. Odisha is the first Indian State to officially launch a statewide CPR training project (community, police and high school/college students) which was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Mr. Naveen Patnaik in Bhubaneswar on February 2,2023.

Indian Medical Institutions and Hospitals are focusing more and more on “Prevention of Cardiac Disease” in addition to improving cardiac care quality services. “Emergency Cardiac Care-Enhancing Outcomes” projects exemplified by “HeartRescue India (HRI) ” (collaboration of the University of Illinois Health, Chicago, USA, M.S. Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, and Medtronic Inc.) are making good progress.

Q. Why Indians or Indian diaspora are more prone to Heart Disease?

A great question! Several evidence-based studies, past and recent, from India, USA and other countries point to various contributing factors such as high BP, tobacco abuse in any form, diet high in carbohydrates, fats, and salt, obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of adequate exercise, stress and lifestyle, and genetic predisposition. They all contribute to the acceleration of plaques or “blocks” in the Heart’s blood vessels. Research also suggests that Indians have smaller sized heart blood vessels with narrow lumina that are also prone to high calcium deposits. In addition, genetic variations or abnormalities also play a significant role in about 6% of the Indians and their diaspora. One recent Indo-US collaborative study (Warangal Area Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Registry, WACAR) gave some insight into the epidemiology of Cardiac Arrests in India.

Q. As an advocate of “Healthy Hearts”, what preventive strategies do you recommend?

A. Awareness, early detection, and timely interventions are the keys to enhancing cardiac health and quality of life. The basics are stopping tobacco use, regular physical activity, healthy diet, maintaining an average weight, controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose, adequate sleep, and stress control through meditation/yoga. They should be tailored to individual needs as advised by their Physicians.

Meditation has several benefits. It’s scientifically proven that Meditation/Yoga pacifies parts of the brain related to stress. Recent research showed that eight weeks of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training programs increase the thickness of Hippocampus (gray matter concentration), the part of the brain responsible for memory and regulating emotions.

Q. What are your concluding comments?

Raising community awareness of Heart Disease, implementing Preventive “Healthy Heart” programs with health screenings and promoting Community CPR programs by the Government and Non-Governmental Organizations are the initial steps to start combating Cardiovascular Disease, improve outcomes in “Heart Emergencies” and enhance overall “Heart Heath”!

Thank You!

(Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is meant for educational purpose only to raise awareness of Heart Disease and Sudden Cardiac Arrests. It does not endorse any specific organization and is not a professional advice. The readers need to seek professional medical advice before following any suggestion).

AAPI Condemns Seattle Police Officer’s Offensive Remarks Regarding Tragic Death Of Indian Student

 “AAPI wants to express our deep concerns and anguish about the Seattle Police Officer’s offensive remarks regarding the tragic death of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old graduate student studying at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus,” Dr. Anjana Samadder, President of American Association of Physicians of India Origin (AAPI) said here today.

In a statement issued here, Dr. Samadder condemned the tragic incident stating, “Jaahnavi’s death was a horrible tragedy. Per reports, she was killed by a police car traveling at 74 miles per hour in a 25-mile-per-hour zone. Adding fuel to the fire, the recording of a Seattle Police officer making light of her death and questioning the value of her life is very disturbing and is totally unacceptable.

“We at AAPI, the largest ethnic medical organization in the nation, serving 30% of US population, urge the federal, state, and local Governments to make all the efforts possible to prevent such behavior against innocent people around the nation who continue to suffer due to violence, harassment, and discrimination,” Dr. Samadder said.

Quoting the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Dr. Lokesh Edara, Chair of AAPI BOT, said, “AAPI recognizes that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set out therein, without distinction of any kind, in particular as to race, color or national origin. All human beings are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection of the law against any discrimination and against any incitement to discrimination.”

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Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President-Elect  of AAPI stressed the need for education. He said, “Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President-Elect  of AAPI stressed the importance of awareness and legislation. He said, “We commit to educating ourselves and others about racism that manifests in our own community in various forms. We will work to address racism and health disparities through policy and by working with affected communities, legislators and the healthcare providers who serve them. I reached out to some of the Indian American legislators on this issue and asked them to talk to other legislators. Our fate is linked to the fate of our fellow citizens, and our work must include lifting up and supporting all the communities so we all can thrive.”.

“Like many members of AAPI, Jaahnavi came to the United States to earn a graduate degree. We know well the experience of arriving onto an American college campus, full of possibility and hope for the future,” Dr. Amitr Chakrabarty, Vice President of AAPI. “This past January, Jaahnavi’s future was taken away from her by the reckless actions of a member of the SPD. Earlier this month, the pain of Jaahnavi’s death was made horribly worse after footage was released of SPD Officer Auderer saying Jaahnavi’s life “had limited value. We believe that every life has value. We believe that Jaahnavi’s life had tremendous value, and join South Asians everywhere in calling for justice and accountability.”

“We stand in solidarity with those across the nation condemning the incident and raising funds to support the family of  and harassment against some minority groups,” Dr. Sumula raval, Secretary of AAPI said. “As immigrants to the U.S., our families may not always understand this history, but we join in solidarity with the minority communities and call for justice and peace.”

“While recognizing the pain and sufferings of the family and friends of Jaahnavi Kandula impacted by the cruel and unfortunate death of their dear one, AAPI is urging the Seattle Police Department and the state Government to pursue its investigation and bring to justice, who are responsible for this tragedy and the inhumane statement by the Police Officer,” said Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Treasurer of AAPI.

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) is an umbrella organization which has over 110 local chapters, specialty societies and alumni organizations, with over 41 years of history of dedicated services to their motherland and the adopted land. For more information on AAPI, please visit: www.aapiusa.org

Indian American Episcopal Bishop In USA, Prince Singh Restricted From Ministry

(RNS) — Episcopal Bishop Prince Singh, provisional bishop of the dioceses of Eastern and Western Michigan, is being placed on leave and will be barred from practicing any form of ministry pending the resolution of a denominational investigation into allegations that he had physically and emotionally abused his wife and sons.

Since June, the bishop has been voluntarily participating in a Title IV investigation, an internal disciplinary process for Episcopal clergy accused of misconduct.

In a letter dated Sept. 7 and obtained by Religion News Service, the Rev. Clifton Daniel III, the bishop of the Diocese of East Carolina who is overseeing the Title IV investigation, cited “a series of public allegations” as reason for the decision.

“These include allegations that you verbally and physically abused your sons over a period of years; that you threw objects at your ex-wife, threatened her with a knife and by raising your hand at her; and that you publicly misrepresented facts related to your divorce,” the letter said. “In the light of these allegations, I have determined that you may have committed an Offense under Title IV, and that the good order, welfare or safety of the Church require that I place restrictions on your ministry.”

The letter orders Prince Singh to refrain from any ordained ministry, in or outside of the Episcopal Church, effective immediately until they are modified by Daniel, or changed or removed by a disciplinary board of bishops “or upon termination of any disciplinary proceedings in which you are a Respondent.” Singh may request a review of the restrictions by a panel of the disciplinary board.

“We are grateful to see this important step forward and look forward to hearing more,” Prince Singh’s sons, Nivedhan and Eklan Singh, and their mother, Roja Suganthy-Singh, said in a statement to RNS. The family members added that they are still “wary” because they believe Singh should have been placed on leave months ago.

The brothers originally disclosed their allegations to the denomination’s Presiding Bishop Michael Curry in December 2022 and have said that Curry and Bishop Todd Ousley, who heads the denomination’s Office of Pastoral Development, mishandled their allegations. Curry has recused himself from overseeing the Title IV investigation and designated Daniel to act as the presiding bishop for the case.

On Tuesday (Sept. 5), after 55 bishops in the Episcopal Church signed a letter citing concerns about members of their ranks receiving “free passes,” Curry announced recommendations for revising disciplinary procedures for bishops.

“For the sake of the gospel, for the sake of our integrity, and, above all, for the sake of the well-being of every child of God who is a part of this church, we cannot, we must not, and we will not sit idly by when anyone is hurt or harmed in our midst,” Curry said in his announcement.

Prince Singh’s predecessor in the dioceses of Eastern and Western Michigan, Whayne M. Hougland Jr., was suspended in 2020 after admitting to adultery. Last summer, members of the dioceses issued a complaint citing serious concerns with the Title IV process. They asserted that the Episcopal Church prioritized the healing and well-being of the bishop at great financial expense, while providing little support to the impacted dioceses. Nivedhan and Eklan Singh and Roja Suganthy-Singh told RNS they hope the pattern does not repeat itself.

“Fifty-five members of the House of Bishops recently signed a letter professing that bishops should not get free passes for misconduct,” Nivedhan, Eklan and Roja Suganthy-Singh wrote in an email. “Until they follow up on this sentiment with real action by taking steps to hold Bishops Curry and Ousley accountable for their track record of mishandling Title IV cases, we cannot take this profession to be anything more than sentimentality and image-management.”

IAGB Celebrates ‘India The Trailblazer’

At its annual India Day celebrations at Boston’s iconic Hatch Memorial Shell on August 19th at Hatch Shell, India Association of Greater Boston, known as IAGB, honored Women Who Win, India Society of Worcester and Indian American Cultural Awareness Builders for their contributions and services to the community.

“We believe that India Day is not just a celebration of a nation, but an occasion to bring our community together, inspire and learn from one another, and celebrate the beauty of diversity and unity,” said IAGB President Vaishali Gade. “Through these events, we hope to continue to create a platform for cultural exchange, dialogue, and mutual appreciation.”

Programs at Indian Day included a Bollywood Classical Fusion Concert, ‘Raaga Unleashed ‘ by Berkley College of Music students, and Patriotic plus Bollywood foot-tapping song bonanza, ‘Junun India Ka’ , a concert by NU Sanskriti, a band by Northeastern University students- under the open sky along Charles River.

Moreover, IAGB kicked off India Day Celebration during the first week of August starting with Flag Raising in many towns and its first ever India Celebration in MLB’s History at Fenway at RED SOx vs KC Royals Game.

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The organizations that were honored at India Day, dubbed this year as “India the Trailblazer”, are:  Women Who Win, founded by Dr. Manju Sheth, Dr. Deepa Jhaveri, and Shaleen Sheth, with Trailblazer of the Year Award; India Society of Worcester for its 60 Years of Community Service; and, Indian American Cultural Awareness Builder: Sunanda Sahay, Shuchi Gupta, Deepali Khanzode, Yogesh Karale, Phil Kaplan and Roopesh Mathur.

“Women Who Win hit its three year milestone this summer, and I am proud of the inspiring and empowering stories we have shared and the unique community we have built. I am excited for our platform to continue being a positive and uplifting media organization where women can share their stories and make connections around the globe,” said Shaleen Sheth, one of the founders of Women Who Win. “We are truly grateful for this recognition and honor and would like to thank IAGB for the Trailblazer award.”

Added Dr. Jhaveri: Women Who Win has surpassed our expectations in terms of impact, engagement and membership.  We are truly thankful to the community for sharing this journey with us as we celebrate our third year anniversary!  Thank you IAGB for this incredible recognition, honor and award.”

Women Who Win is nonprofit global women’s media platform, with a mission to amplify voices of diverse women of all races, cultures, and backgrounds.

“Women Who Win was founded during Covid times to share uplifting stories and bring hope so that women would not give up on their dreams in tough situations,” said Dr. Sheth. “This is our third-year anniversary, and we feel privileged to have shared hundreds of inspiring stories . We are so grateful to IAGB for appreciating our work and honoring us with the Trailblazer’s Award.”

“In short, we are very honored and grateful to get the prestigious Trailblazer Award of the year from IAGB especially on Indian Independence Day celebrations at Hatch Shell. It will motivate us to keep doing better,” said Dr. Maju Sheth, founder of Women Who Win.

525 Incidents Of Violence Against Christians In India in 212 Days In 2023

As we Indians are feeling proud of world leaders assembling in our country under the presidency of India led by the charismatic Prime Minister Shri Narender Modi for the G20 summit, there are Indians facing incidents of violence for practicing a faith that is of their own choice.

In the first 212 days of this year, 2023, 525 incidents of violence against Christians have been reported from 23 states of India in just 8 months as against 505 incidents in the whole year of 2022. June has seen the highest number of incidents with 89 followed by July with 80, 68 in August, 66 in March, 63 in February, 62 in January, 50 in May and 47 in April.

There are 13 Districts in India wherein practicing Christianity is becoming dangerous. Bastar is leading with 51 incidents of violence against Christians followed by 14 each in Kondagaon and Azamgarh, 13 each in Jaunpur, Raebareli and Sitapur, 12 in Kapur, 10 each in Hardoi, Maharajganj, Kushinagar and Mau, 9 each in Gazipur and Ranchi.

Three (3) large states of North India are witnessing the highest number of incidents of violence against Christians: Uttar Pradesh leading with 211 incidents followed by Chhattisgarh with 118 and Haryana with 39 incidents.

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All these incidents of violence are by mob violence led by so called vigilante groups of particular faith who are allegedly receiving support from people in power. Attacks against Christians do not stop with mob violence only there are 520 Christians who have been arrested accused of false forced conversions with any proven evidence.

There are 54 cases of social ostracism predominantly occurring in the states of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. This exclusion involves denying victims access to basic resources such as village water sources, common roads, etc. Additionally, in certain situations, victims are prevented from harvesting their own crops, leading to adverse economic consequences.

This year also saw Delhi NCR experiencing incidents of violence with four recorded cases in which individuals conducting prayer meetings were confronted and disrupted by religious extremist groups. These extremists resorted to physical assault against the victims and used threats to coerce them into ending their prayer gatherings.

As per the reports recorded by the United Christian Forum (UCF), the incidents of violence against Christians have been increasing sharply and steadily since 2014: 147 incidents in 2014, 177 in 2015, 208 in 2016, 240 in 2017, 292 in 2018, 328 in 2019, 279 in 2020,505 in 2021, 599 in 2022 and 525 incidents in first 212 days of 2023.

This press release does not include the details of Manipur wherein, according to media reports, over 300 Churches belonging to various communities were destroyed, nearly 200 people died and over 54, 000 were displaced since May 3, 2023. While the situation remains tense and volatile, we will await the official report of the Government’s inquiry and investigation.

Ø  HIGHEST NUMBER OF INCIDENTS IN 13 DISTRICTS IN 3 STATES

Ø  520 CHRISTIANS ARRESTED IN FALSE ALLEGATION OF CONVERSIONS

Ø  54 CASES OF SOCIAL OSTRACISM

Ø  2.5 INCIDENTS A DAY

Petition On Violence Against Christians Before Supreme Court Of India

The matter is coming up on 12th September 2023 before a bench led by the Chief Justice of India for final hearing. The Union government is opposing our petition. Our advocate Colin Gonsalves has submitted an interim prayer for SIT comprising officers outside the respective states to register FIRs, investigate and prosecute; police protection prayer meetings conducted by the Christian community and to provide legal aid to all the victims. For further details, please contact: [email protected]

September 11 Remembrance Staged On Tribeca Traffic Island

Battery Dance, an arts organization located in what was the “Frozen Zone” after 9/11, remembers the victims of the attacks on the World Trade Towers 22 years later, curating a public program of Indian classical dance and music.  At 8:26 a.m. on Monday, September 11th, the voices of Hindustani classical musicians Ritesh and Rajnish Mishra, will echo from the traffic island at Franklin Street and West Broadway in Tribeca, along with the ankle bells of Kathak dancer Parul Shah and rhythms of tabla player Naren Budhakar.

The event, staged impromptu and with no intention of collecting donations and with no seating, follows Battery Dance’s earlier memorial events staged in the same spot in September 2001 and 2021, a location chosen because the towers had been in the view corridor of the traffic island which now looks out on empty sky.  It also follows a public performance staged at the World Trade Center that Hollander organized in 1999, the first time Ritesh and Rajnish had performed in North America with their father and uncle, Rajan and Sajan Mishra.

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Delhi-based brothers, Ritesh and Rajnish Mishra, come from a long-line of Hindustani classical musicians, with their father and uncle being two of the most beloved and revered artists of their generation.  They have built a reputation for themselves over the past two decades with five previous U.S. tours, numerous Indian national awards and 10 recordings to their credit.

Parul Shah is a leading dancer in the North Indian classical style of Kathak, a form that combines elements of both Mughal and Hindu cultures.  Her former dance studio was located a few blocks from the World Trade Center. She has been a featured performer at previous Battery Dance Festival India Day performances.

Naren Budhakar is an esteemed percussionist who has performed at the Metropolitan and Brooklyn Museums, Asia Society, and on international tours. He performed with Battery Dance in the Fall of 2001 at the inaugural “Wall Street Rising” event following 9/11.

Battery Dance gratefully acknowledges the support of Radhika and Kamal Bhatia.

EVENT:   9/11 Remembrance in Music and Dance

LOCATION:   Traffic Island next to the uptown #1 Subway Franklin Station stop in Tribeca

TIME/DATE:   8:46 a.m. – 9:16 a.m., Monday, September 11, 2023

PERFORMERS:   Rajnish & Ritesh Mishra, Parul Shah, Naren Budhakar

Views of India Lean Positive Across 23 Countries

A Highly Powerful Line-Up of Speakers To Address The 2,000+ Strong Delegates During ITServe’s Synergy 2023 In Atlantic City

“An esteemed panel of keynote speakers, industry experts, thought leaders, and lawmakers will share their insights and best practices on a diverse range of topics relevant to Itserve members, during ITServe’s flagship Synergy 2023 in Atlantic City this Fall.” Venu Sangani, Director of Synergy 2023 announced here today.

Over 2,000+ strong delegates from across the United States will gather to be part of the 9th Annual Synergy Conference, planned to be held at the popular Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City,  New Jersey from October 26-27, 2023, Sangani added.

Vinay K. Mahajan, National President of ITServe Alliance says, “ITServe Alliance’s Synergy is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy 2023 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

Describing the background to the launching of the first-ever Synergy Conference in 2015, Vinod Babu Uppu, Governing Board Chair of ITServe said, “Synergy is ITServe Alliance’s flagship Annual Conference, which began in 2015 with the objective of providing business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives with strategies and solutions that address the unique needs of the IT Solution & Services Industry.”

Synergy continues to add prominent speakers, and valuable sponsorships, and help grow a community network of industry professionals across the country,” said Amar Varada, Chair of Synergy 2023. “Participants at Synergy 2023 will have a platform for IT company heads to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staffing and Technology.

Anil Atyam, Chair of Speakers for Synergy 2023, and Radha Alla, Synergy Advisor emphasized the curated lineup of speakers and panels. “We are thrilled to have a diverse and esteemed set of speakers for this year’s conference. From policymakers, and technology leaders to industry innovators, our speakers are pivotal in shaping the discussions and providing invaluable insights that can be immediately applied in various sectors of the IT industry. The selection process has been meticulous, ensuring that each session offers a blend of expertise, vision, and actionable advice for our members. The goal is to create a transformative experience for our attendees.”

Secretary of State Hillary R. Clinton will be a distinguished guest and will address the participants during the Banquet Night during the Synergy 2023.  Ms. Clinton, the 67th Secretary of State of the United States has dedicated over four decades in public service as an advocate, attorney, First Lady, and Senator.

Steve Forbes, an American publishing executive, who had sought the Republican Party’s presidential nomination twice and a member of the board of trustees of the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, and Chairman of the Forbes Media will the Inaugural Keynote Speaker during Synergy 2023.

Kevin O’Leary, a Canadian entrepreneur, financier, and television personality who was perhaps best known as a panelist on the reality series Dragons’ Den and Shark Tank will be another phenomenal speaker, who will share his insights with the ITServe dellegates at the Conference.

Phaneesh Murthy, who has established himself as an industry leader over his 25 year career in business, having successfully structured and managed large outsourcing deals for Fortune 500 companies, will share his expertise on consulting in the areas of IT spending, business strategies, and restructuring.

Another remarkable speaker at the Synergy 2023 will Zack Kass, who is the current Head of GTM and had served as the VP of Sales and Customer Success at Terminus, Mixpanel, and Figure Eight. Kass at OpenAI has extensive work experience spanning over a decade in leadership positions in various companies.

Sheila Bair, who has had a long and distinguished career in government, academia, and finance will share with the delegates her insights on effectively working with Government agencies. Twice named by Forbes Magazine as the second most powerful woman in the world, she is perhaps best known as Chair of (FDIC) for steering the agency through the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

Prominent among those who were at the previous Synergy conferences include: former Presidents of the United States, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, and Nikki Haley, a Republican Presidential candidate.

According to Sangani, “Designed to cater to the specific needs of ITServe members, primarily tech entrepreneurs, Synergy 2023 will host a plethora of crucial panel discussions. Topics will span from Immigration to CIO/CTO issues, Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Planning, and Political Action Committees, among others. Barbara Bruno will lead an educational session on “Mastering Effective Recruiting in Staffing,” and other sessions will focus on Contracts, Legal Compliance, and Federal Contracting.”

Under the banner “Come, Learn, and Grow,” a dedicated team spearheaded by Venu Sangani is fervently working to elevate Synergy 2023’s brand and position it as the leading IT Staffing Conference in America. Beyond being an arena for networking and knowledge sharing, Synergy 2023 aims to be a veritable marketplace for ideas and innovations. The event is curated to provide actionable insights and strategies that companies can directly implement, serving as a catalyst for taking your business to the next level.

Summarizing the mission of ITServe Alliance and Synergy 2023, Jagadeesh Mosali, President-Elect of ITServe said, “We believe in developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding. Come and join us on our journey. Let us be your voice when it comes to Information Technology.”

According to Anju Vallbhaneni, Secretary of ITServe, “Synergy offers a unique opportunity for IT companies and individuals in the industry to hear from renowned guest speakers and thought leaders from across the country. participants will have the opportunity to break out into start-up cubes with business leaders and investors to pitch their offerings and ideas for the chance to turn dreams into a reality.”

“Since 2015, Synergy has grown from a one-day conference and banquet event to two full days of speakers, panels, and breakout sessions. What began in Dallas, TX, has now travelled to Atlantic City and Chicago, continuing to grow,” said Mahesh Sake, Treasurer of ITServe.

“In just two days, our attendees will grow their peer network, partake in important industry discussions, and gain valuable knowledge to take their business to the next level. Come and experience for yourself the impact we are making when we come together and explore more about Synergy. We can’t wait to see you in Atlantic City,” said Ashok Dandamudi, Media Director of ITServe Alliance.

Vamsi Tamanna, Synergy PR & Media Chair said, “ITServe has built a strong member-focused community within the IT industry, where professionals and experts alike can collaborate, present new business ventures, and work together to find new ways to overcome industry obstacles.”

Sangani said, “We have been working hard to streamline the Synergy conference process, increase the brand value of our Synergy, and promote diversity to establish it as a recognized America’s biggest IT Staffing conference by mainstream media. Come and be part of our journey to be the powerful voice that represents all IT businesses across the United States.”

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country. For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

A Highly Powerful Line-Up of Speakers To Address The 2,000+ Strong Delegates During ITServe’s Synergy 2023 In Atlantic City

(September 12th, 2023 – Atlantic City, NJ) “An esteemed panel of keynote speakers, industry experts, thought leaders, and lawmakers will share their insights and best practices on a diverse range of topics relevant to Itserve members, during ITServe’s flagship Synergy 2023 in Atlantic City this Fall.” Venu Sangani, Director of Synergy 2023 announced here today.

Over 2,000+ strong delegates from across the United States will gather to be part of the 9th Annual Synergy Conference, planned to be held at the popular Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City,  New Jersey from October 26-27, 2023, Sangani added.

Vinay K. Mahajan, National President of ITServe Alliance says, “ITServe Alliance’s Synergy is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy 2023 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

Describing the background to the launching of the first-ever Synergy Conference in 2015, Vinod Babu Uppu, Governing Board Chair of ITServe said, “Synergy is ITServe Alliance’s flagship Annual Conference, which began in 2015 with the objective of providing business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives with strategies and solutions that address the unique needs of the IT Solution & Services Industry.”

Synergy continues to add prominent speakers, and valuable sponsorships, and help grow a community network of industry professionals across the country,” said Amar Varada, Chair of Synergy 2023. “Participants at Synergy 2023 will have a platform for IT company heads to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staffing and Technology.

Picture : TheUNN

Anil Atyam, Chair of Speakers for Synergy 2023, and Radha Alla, Synergy Advisor emphasized the curated lineup of speakers and panels. “We are thrilled to have a diverse and esteemed set of speakers for this year’s conference. From policymakers, and technology leaders to industry innovators, our speakers are pivotal in shaping the discussions and providing invaluable insights that can be immediately applied in various sectors of the IT industry. The selection process has been meticulous, ensuring that each session offers a blend of expertise, vision, and actionable advice for our members. The goal is to create a transformative experience for our attendees.”

Secretary of State Hillary R. Clinton will be a distinguished guest and will address the participants during the Banquet Night during the Synergy 2023.  Ms. Clinton, the 67th Secretary of State of the United States has dedicated over four decades in public service as an advocate, attorney, First Lady, and Senator.

Steve Forbes, an American publishing executive, who had sought the Republican Party’s presidential nomination twice and a member of the board of trustees of the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, and Chairman of the Forbes Media will the Inaugural Keynote Speaker during Synergy 2023.

Kevin O’Leary, a Canadian entrepreneur, financier, and television personality who was perhaps best known as a panelist on the reality series Dragons’ Den and Shark Tank will be another phenomenal speaker, who will share his insights with the ITServe dellegates at the Conference.

Phaneesh Murthy, who has established himself as an industry leader over his 25 year career in business, having successfully structured and managed large outsourcing deals for Fortune 500 companies, will share his expertise on consulting in the areas of IT spending, business strategies, and restructuring.

Another remarkable speaker at the Synergy 2023 will Zack Kass, who is the current Head of GTM and had served as the VP of Sales and Customer Success at Terminus, Mixpanel, and Figure Eight. Kass at OpenAI has extensive work experience spanning over a decade in leadership positions in various companies,

Sheila Bair, who has had a long and distinguished career in government, academia, and finance will share with the delegates her insights on effectively working with Government agencies. Twice named by Forbes Magazine as the second most powerful woman in the world, she is perhaps best known as Chair of (FDIC) for steering the agency through the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

Prominent among those who were at the previous Synergy conferences include: former Presidents of the United States, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, and Nikki Haley, a Republican Presidential candidate.

According to Sangani, “Designed to cater to the specific needs of ITServe members, primarily tech entrepreneurs, Synergy 2023 will host a plethora of crucial panel discussions. Topics will span from Immigration to CIO/CTO issues, Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Planning, and Political Action Committees, among others. Barbara Bruno will lead an educational session on “Mastering Effective Recruiting in Staffing,” and other sessions will focus on Contracts, Legal Compliance, and Federal Contracting.”

Under the banner “Come, Learn, and Grow,” a dedicated team spearheaded by Venu Sangani is fervently working to elevate Synergy 2023’s brand and position it as the leading IT Staffing Conference in America. Beyond being an arena for networking and knowledge sharing, Synergy 2023 aims to be a veritable marketplace for ideas and innovations. The event is curated to provide actionable insights and strategies that companies can directly implement, serving as a catalyst for taking your business to the next level.

Summarizing the mission of ITServe Alliance and Synergy 2023, Jagadeesh Mosali, President-Elect of ITServe said, “We believe in developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding. Come and join us on our journey. Let us be your voice when it comes to Information Technology.”

According to Anju Vallbhaneni, Secretary of ITServe, “Synergy offers a unique opportunity for IT companies and individuals in the industry to hear from renowned guest speakers and thought leaders from across the country. participants will have the opportunity to break out into start-up cubes with business leaders and investors to pitch their offerings and ideas for the chance to turn dreams into a reality.”

“Since 2015, Synergy has grown from a one-day conference and banquet event to two full days of speakers, panels, and breakout sessions. What began in Dallas, TX, has now travelled to Atlantic City and Chicago, continuing to grow,” said Mahesh Sake, Treasurer of ITServe.

“In just two days, our attendees will grow their peer network, partake in important industry discussions, and gain valuable knowledge to take their business to the next level. Come and experience for yourself the impact we are making when we come together and explore more about Synergy. We can’t wait to see you in Atlantic City,” said Ashok Dandamudi, Media Director of ITServe Alliance.

Vamsi Tamanna, Synergy PR & Media Chair said, “ITServe has built a strong member-focused community within the IT industry, where professionals and experts alike can collaborate, present new business ventures, and work together to find new ways to overcome industry obstacles.”

Sangani said, “We have been working hard to streamline the Synergy conference process, increase the brand value of our Synergy, and promote diversity to establish it as a recognized America’s biggest IT Staffing conference by mainstream media. Come and be part of our journey to be the powerful voice that represents all IT businesses across the United States.”

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country. For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

GIC Celebrates Independence & Chandrayaan Day

Global Indian Council President PC Mathew presided over the meeting, and the Global General Secretary delivered a detailed welcome speech. Dr. Gopinath Muthukad as the Chief Guest and Dr. Jija Madhavan Hari Singh IPS, Rtd. (Global Goodwill Ambassador of GIC)graced the event with their valuable presence. “Conquering the Moon Mirrors Our Journey as a Nation Marked by Determination, Challenges, Perseverance, and the Pursuit of Excellence,” a global news reporter stated with emphasis.

The meeting began with Kumari Krystal Shajan (New York) singing the American National Anthem, followed by the Indian National Anthem by sisters Aditi & Ananya from Kerala, who won popular awards and applause from the Flowers channel music competition in its 1st phase.  

Chief guest Dr Gopinathan Mudukad addressed the gathering as the audience were awaiting to hear from the World famous Magician who turned into a Philanthropist. He expressed his happiness and endorsed the achievement of Chandrayaan 3 mission and the achievement of India from its independence in 1947. 

He prolonged his speech that Independence is complete in its entirety when all the humans around are also independent in all aspects. He was mentioning about the differently abled population of India who are still not recognized by the world community. The social stigma about disability has to go away and society should accept them without bias. 

A considerable percentage in India’s population has some kind of disability which is unnoticed by many. Children should be educated to take this invisible majority. He announced the opening of the Different Arts Center at Thiruvananthapuram on August 27, 2023, wherein 300 differently abled children are enrolled, and appreciated Global Indian Council for its vision and missions.

Global Goodwill Ambassador of GIC, Dr.Jija Madavan Harisingh IPS, former DGP of Karnataka, on her Independence Day message emphasized that it is an honour to come before the GIC community. She continued in her detailed and eloquent statement that “Today, we come together in excitement, not only to celebrate our cherished Independence Day but also to commemorate a remarkable milestone in our nation’s history” Chandrayaan- 3, the Indian Moon Mission. 

As we unfurl the tricolor flag of India, we are reminded of the sacrifices, struggles, and indomitable spirit that culminated in our independence on August 15, 1947. Our celebrations today go beyond the boundaries of our nation. Our global Indian community is connected not only by our heritage but also by our aspirations for a better future. Just as our forefathers dreamt of an independent India, our scientists and engineers at ISRO dared to dream of reaching the lunar surface. 

And they achieved it! India’s historic journey to the moon is a testament to our unwavering commitment to be global! Congratulations to ISRO for reaching new heights in space exploration!💕Chandrayaan-3, with its orbiter, lander, and rover, at a frugal cost of only 75 million dollars, which is much lower than what other countries have spent on missions, and less than half the cost of even a Hollywood movie.

As we celebrate our nation’s moon mission, we also observe the indomitable spirit of inquiry and innovation that defines us as Indians. Our journey to the moon mirrors our journey as a nation” marked by challenges, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Just as our freedom fighters did not waver in their commitment to a free India, our scientists did not falter in their quest for lunar conquest. They teach us that with determination, the sky is not the limit! Today, let us pledge to carry forward this same spirit of innovation. Let us remember that as global Indians, we are not bound by borders; we are bound by our shared values and aspirations. 

We have the power to make a positive impact on the world, just as India’s moon mission has! In conclusion, as we celebrate India’s Independence Day and the remarkable Chandrayaan-3, let us remember that our heritage is a source of strength, our diversity is a source of unity, and our dreams are a source of inspiration. Together, as a global Indian community, we can continue to reach for the stars and achieve greatness.

GIC Cabinet members Prof.Joy Pallattumadom VP, Adv Yamini Rajesh Associate Secretary,Tom George Kolath -Associate Treasurer, Adv Susan Mathew – Compliance officer, Adv Seema-Public Relations Officer,  Dr. Mathew Joys – Media & Publicity felicitated the event and expressed their congratulations on the successful mission of chandrayaan 3. 

The following chapter Presidents/CoE chairperson and members also felicitated the event. African Chapter president – Dr Mohan Lumba, NY chapter president – Dr. Anil Paulose, Andrews Kunnuparampil, Health & Wellness CoE – Dr Jacob Eapen, Usha George, Marginalized Community: Dr Narayanankutty, Education & Literature: Prof VC John, Travancore chapter: Prof KP Mathew, Cinema & Visual media Red Carpet: Komal Kothari, Sunil Hali & Trilok Malik, Vani Madula, Woman empowerment chairs: Sosamma Andrew, Dr. Alice Mathew, Business: Elizabeth Paulose, Arts&Culture: Minku Buttar, Deepa Mohandoss from the Canada chapter, Eminent community leaders like Kallikkadu Babu, and Alex Koshy also felicitated the event.

Tom George Kolath Ass. Treasurer greeted all with Independence Day wishes and also shared our gratitude to “ISRO chairman Dr. Somanath, all the scientists, and teamwork and contributions to Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. Unity and diversity are our strength. We remember all our freedom fighters and all the leaders who started the footwork of this research and developments of our great nation India.” Tom also gave a Vote of thanks and thanked the chief guest, cabinet, emcees, performers, and all participants.

Interfaith Actions Stressed at Parliament of World Religions

The message resonates with clarity and conviction: We must join hands, unite, and safeguard the religious rights of all faiths. The Parliament of World Religions (PoWR) has traversed a remarkable journey since 1893. The 1893 Parliament of the World’s Religions brought together 400 men and women, representing 41 diverse religious traditions. It was during this momentous gathering that Catholicism and Judaism gained recognition as significant American religions, and the luminous traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism were unveiled to the Western world.

 In the contemporary landscape, where the specters of religious fanaticism and state-sanctioned alienation loom large, the initial tableau of the plenary challenges our reality. The camaraderie among individuals from Mexico, China, and India on the dais extends a warm invitation to stakeholders of faith, beckoning them towards a realm of peace, harmony, and genuine discourse on pressing matters. Chicago’s atmosphere was electric, and Mayor Brandon Johnson astutely proclaimed, “In this moment, seeking refuge solely within scriptures and holy texts falls short; it is essential to exhibit the most magnificent creation and power of humanity – the act of love.”

 PoWR 2023 resounded as a summons to conscience. The central theme was the defense of freedom and Human Rights. A sojourn through the exhibition hall became a journey into one’s moral compass. Here, spiritual traditions, religious collectives, faith-based seminaries, modern mantras for bonding, ancient sutras for equilibrium, poignant reflections on religious animosity, organizations dedicated to social progress, and revitalizing yoga meditations converged. 

One stall orchestrated interfaith harmonies through melodious songs, while another presented sobering data on minorities targeted by right-wing regimes. Tokens of memory took the form of pens, badges, shirts, chocolates, pins, and meticulously annotated leaflets and brochures. The Boston School of Theology extended courses to fathom the nuances of various religions, while the Divine Life Society resonated with masses, nurturing understanding through the prism of yoga. The panorama was a tapestry woven with the threads of diversity.

 The PoWR embodies an idea. Over 250 breakout sessions grappled with diverse subjects. The inner dialogues, cast as a broad mandate, often witnessed some gems eclipsed in the shadows. The spectrum of topics, spanning the gamut from deconstructing religious patriarchy to the serendipitous revelations in the realm of anti-nuclear activism, enticed discerning minds. Yet, amidst the symphony of simultaneous sessions, flowing with the current was akin to chasing ephemeral wisps. The plenary sessions, a harmonious ensemble of thought, struck deep chords. The Women’s Assembly held profound significance, addressing the very core of female participation within faith-infused societies. Amidst this resplendence, the assembly advocating climate action, the council amplifying indigenous voices, and the solemn rite of climate repentance shone a luminous light on faith’s role.

 Within the tapestry of aspirations, it was religious fanaticism that garnered the earnest ears of all. Rev. Jen Butler, the visionary founder of Faith in Public Life, lamented, “Religion, once the sanctuary of moral teachings, now stands manipulated, its moral fabric corroded by heinous acts of violence. Autocratic forces wield religion as an instrument for amassing power and maintaining control, from the prism of Russian Orthodox nationalism to the fervor of Catholic nationalism in Hungary and Poland, from India’s Hindutva to Israel’s nascent ruling coalition’s Jewish nationalism, and further to the evangelical and Pentecostal strains of religious nationalism in the U.S. and Brazil.” The expo center echoed this sentiment with a clamor of urgency.

 The Langar, an enchanting ritual embedded in past PoWR gatherings, enchanted thousands. Orchestrated by the Birmingham-based Nishkam Seva Jatha, this Sikh tradition was brought to life under the guidance of Bhai Sahab Mohinder Singh, who joyously proclaimed adherence to Sikh guru teachings through service to the world, transcending all biases. Faith leaders, adorned with white scarves, formed orderly queues, savoring Indian delicacies with hearts full of contentment. Within the tent, a grand theater of interfaith harmony and service unfolded. Nishkam Seva Jatha’s legacy of offering free langar since the 2004 PoWR was radiant.

 A poignant tribute unfolded for the 30,000 children lost to gun violence. Scraps of orange fabric coalesced into labyrinthine patterns or transformed into raw tools by the skilled hands of Shane Claiborne’s blacksmith forge. His declaration reverberated, “When we mold that metal, it resounds with the proclamation that the world can be reshaped.”

 The Parliament of World Religions 2023 encapsulates the elements required for reimagining our perceptions of faith. It beckoned forth distinguished faith leaders, entwining them in conversations that bear rich fruit. Concealed within closed chambers, the International Religious Freedom Roundtable murmured profound secrets, reminiscent of the hallowed halls of Washington. The Indian delegation of interfaith leaders radiated with fervor. The quest for a better world necessitates the exchange of ideas. PoWR has evolved into a pertinent platform for intricate discussions, where faith assumes a fresh and actionable agenda.

California’s Caste Bill Passes Key Hurdle With 50-3 Assembly Vote

Senate Bill 403 exposed a rift among members of the South Asian American community over the prevalence of caste-based discrimination in the United States.

(RNS) — A contentious bill that would declare caste as a protected category under California’s existing anti-discrimination law was passed by the state’s Assembly in a bipartisan 50-3 vote Monday evening (Aug. 28), with 27 members abstaining. The legislation, which had already passed the state Senate, is expected to become law with the governor’s signature.

Known as Senate Bill 403, or SB403, the bill was originally introduced by Sen. Aisha Wahab in February and will revise California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act, education and housing codes by adding caste as a protected category under “ancestry.” 

Senate Bill 403 became a national cause that exposed a rift among members of the South Asian American community over the prevalence of caste-based discrimination in the United States.

While many South Asians agree that caste has an impact on many lives across the diaspora in the United States, some feel that explicitly outlawing caste discrimination only serves to reaffirm caste differences among, and prejudice against, the U.S. Hindu community. A vocal group who opposed the bill argued that the caste system has been unfairly equated with the Hindu religion in the American imagination.

As a result of monthslong protests from Hindu advocacy organizations that followed the bill as it moved through the California Legislature, SB403 now contains no explicit mentions of South Asia or Hinduism.

On Monday, Equality Labs, a civil rights organization dedicated to Dalit advocacy and the bill’s co-sponsor, released a statement celebrating the effort to raise awareness of caste-based discrimination to the legislative stage.

“SB403, at its core, is an anti-discrimination bill and does not target any religious or cultural groups; that would directly go against the bill’s very nature,” the statement says. “There is no underlying agenda or controversy surrounding the legislation. People of all faiths, backgrounds, and nationalities have peacefully united to advocate for SB403 — creating a truly stunning response to the international call for caste equity.”

The lights of the state Capitol glow into the night in Sacramento, Calif., Aug. 31, 2022. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)

The Ambedkar King Study Circle, named after the social reformer and drafter of the Indian Constitution, B.R. Ambedkar, posted a statement on X, formerly Twitter: “This monumental bill puts an end to caste discrimination, extending legal protection to all facing caste oppression. A huge step towards equality and justice”

The Ambedkar International Center called it “a defeat for the caste deniers.”

Hindus for Human Rights, a Hindu advocacy organization that is vocal about the issue of caste bias, said in a statement: “On the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington, Dr. King’s dream takes one more step into reality.”

But while many celebrated what they see as a win for marginalized South Asian communities, some opponents are still dissatisfied with the bill’s passage, especially in light of what they say is unsubstantiated evidence of caste discrimination in the U.S.

Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation, which led the charge against the bill, released a statement saying, “Fifty California legislators chose to side with anti-Hindu hate groups rather than showing moral courage and upholding the Constitution. When a state legislator pushes a law with the intent of targeting an ethnic community, it’s not only racist, it’s unconstitutional.”

The Coalition of Hindus of North America also bemoaned “the passing of a bill which is NOT facially neutral and written to specifically target Hindu Americans,” calling it “the latest in a long line of unjust bills, (such as the Asian Exclusion Act), which were popular at the time of their passing and were used to target minorities of color.”

In recent years, colleges and universities began adding caste to their list of differences, along with race and sexuality and gender identity, that were protected against bias. Brandeis University banned caste discrimination over complaints from some Hindus in 2019; the California State University system added caste to its nondiscrimination policy in early 2022.

In June 2020, an unnamed Indian-origin Cisco employee accused two of his managers of passing him over for a promotion. California’s Civil Rights Department sued the two defendants in a yearslong case that ended when it was dismissed due to lack of evidence.  

More recently, 12 of the complainants in a 2021 lawsuit that alleged forced labor among “lower-caste” artisans on the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple of Robbinsville, New Jersey, retracted their claims, saying they were coerced into making false allegations of caste discrimination. 

The amended California bill will now return to the Senate for a floor vote, then will be sent to Gov. Gavin Newsom. “We will explore every option to protect the rights of Hindu Californians,” said Shukla.

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