Community Organizations in New York Bid Farewell to Consul A.K. Vijayakrishnan with Heartfelt Send-Off Dinner

June 20, 2024June 23, 2024 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

In a heartfelt event, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) chapters in New York and Manhattan, alongside the Indian American Kerala Center in Elmont, New York, and several other community organizations, hosted a farewell dinner for Shri A.K. Vijayakrishnan, the Consul for Community Affairs at the Indian Consulate in New York. The event marked the end of his 4½-year tenure and his retirement from service. The other organizations involved included the Kerala Cultural Association of North America, Pioneer Club of Keralites, Kerala Samajam of Greater New York, World Malayalee Council NY Province, FOMAA Metro Region, FOKANA Metro Region, Long Island Malayalee Cultural Association, Indian American Malayalee Association of Long Island, and Milan Cultural Association.

Consul Vijayakrishnan, a distinguished diplomat with over 36 years of experience with the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India, has held various challenging and significant assignments, including postings in the High Commission of India in Pakistan and other countries. The send-off dinner, held at the Indian American Kerala Center, celebrated his dedicated service.

The evening commenced with a welcome address from Kerala Center President Alex Esthappan, who praised Consul Vijayakrishnan for his exemplary service during his term.

GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham highlighted the community’s decision to honor Consul Vijayakrishnan, noting, “Although many consuls come and go, we felt it was important to give Consul Vijayakrishnan an appropriate send-off since he conducted his service above his call for duty by making himself available to serve the community 24/7 by sharing his cell phone with everyone.”

Dr. Abraham added, “Whenever I called him to alert a community issue or the death of an Indian citizen in the USA, he was already on the case, and that was greatly appreciated by the community.”

Speakers from various community organizations expressed their gratitude and admiration for Consul Vijayakrishnan’s dedication. These included Beena Kothari, President of GOPIO-NY; Suresh Sharma, President of Milan Cultural Association (Hartford, CT); Johny Zachariah, President of Pioneer Club of Keralites; Manohar Thomas, President of Sargavedi; Jose Kadapuram of Kairali TV; Philip Madathil, President of Kerala Cultural Association of North America; Sibi David, President of Kerala Samajam of New York; Thomas T. Oommen, Long Island Malayalee Cultural Association; Sibi David of Kalavedi; and Biju Chacko of World Malayalee Council. Other notable speakers included Democratic Party leaders Dr. Sumita SenGupta, Kalathil Varghese, and Koshy Thomas, as well as May Philip and Mathew Kutty Easo.

In recognition of his sincere service to the Indian diaspora community, Consul Vijayakrishnan was presented with an honor plaque by these organizations.

In his response to the accolades, Vijayakrishnan expressed his pleasure in serving the Indian American community, mentioning that he had encountered numerous family disputes, including domestic violence cases. He emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts non-violently and urged the community to adopt non-violent approaches in any disputes.

He also shared his experiences attending various regional community festivals and encouraged community organizations to invite members from other Indian community organizations to such events. This, he suggested, would foster better understanding and knowledge of Indian festivals among all communities.

Pragya Singh, the Consul for Visa at the Indian Consulate, who will take on the additional responsibility of Consul for Community Affairs, assured the attendees that she would continue Consul Vijayakrishnan’s work and looked forward to community support.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Kerala Center Secretary Raju Thomas, rounding off an evening of heartfelt tributes and community bonding.

GOPIO International Announces Convention to be Held in April

February 5, 2024February 13, 2024 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

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.

At 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 29^th 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.

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

January 16, 2024 Staff ReporterCommunity, Opinion 0

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

A Tribute to Dr. Jagat Motwani

December 30, 2023December 30, 2023 Dr. Thomas AbrahamProfile 0

It is a very sad news for all of us in the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) to know that Dr. Jagat Motwani is no more. A Fulbright scholar, professor and social worker, Dr. Jagat Motwani worked for the State of New York and made outstanding contributions in the field of Social Work. Other than his professional contributions, he stood out for his contribution to the Indian Diaspora community for the last four decades.

Dr. Jagat Motwani was a tall leader of the Indian Diaspora community and was a Founding Member of the GOPIO. He was a Co-Convener of the First Global Convention of People of Indian Origin held in 1989 in New York City where GOPIO was formed. He served as official of several community organizations including Heart and
Hand for the Handicapped (HHH), Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), National Federation of Indian-American Associations (NFIA) and the last in GOPIO as its Secretary General. Dr. Motwani was one of the initiators of the First India Day Parade in New York City in 1981 and served as its Marshal. He wrote several books on the Indian Diaspora and on Indian history.

He was a patriotic Indian. I have had opportunity to work with him closely since 1978 when he represented HHH in FIA New York. From that time, he was with me in every group I had initiated, including NFIA and GOPIO. When we thought of the First Global Convention of People of Indian Origin in 1989 under the aegis of NFIA, we were in the unchartered territory since there was no communication between our communities around the world. So we decided to travel to all countries with large Indian Diaspora population. Dr. Motwani was a great help in travelling alone to the Far Eastern countries to seek participation and support from the Indian Diaspora in those countries.

We had travelled together to many parts of the world and all over India promoting the First Global Indian Convention. At the convention, Dr. Motwani and his co-editors brought out the first ever book on Global Indian Diaspora

⁠Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. After the GOPIO was formed at the convention, Dr. Motwani contributed as Secretary General and later as the Chairman of GOPIO Academic Council for over two decades. GOPIO International and its chapters convey our heartfelt condolences to Motwani family. We will miss him in our midst. May his soul rest in peace.

Dr. Thomas Abraham
Chairman, GOPIO International

GOPIO-CT Organizes Experts Panel On 2021 Tax Planning and Tax Saving Tips

December 11, 2020January 8, 2021 Staff ReporterCommunity, Finance/Economy 0

With the year 2020 with all the uncertainties due to the Covid pandemic coming to a close, most of us, especially the Indian Americans are getting ready to file the annual Tax Returns. With ever changing Tax Laws, and in the context of the Covid pandemic and the ushering in of a new administration led by President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President Elect Kamala Harris preparing to lead the nation, there are several unanswered questions on how best to use the prevailing tax laws to benefit individuals, families and businesses.

GOPIO-CT, the most active Chapter in the world, under the leaderships of Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International and Ashok Nichani, the local Chapter president and the Exceptive Committee organized a Virtual Zoom Session on Friday, Dec. 4, 2020, with the objective of educating Indian Americans on 2021 Major US Tax Reform, Tax Planning and Tax Saving Tips, International Taxes, Estate & Gift tax and Retirement Plans. Attended by hundreds of members and leaders of GOPIO, the educative session was led by several experts on Tax law in the US, with particular focus on international Taxes.

Cecil Nazareth, ACA, CPA, MBA addressed the audience on Tax Planning 2020-’21 and International Taxes with particular focus on: IRS enforcement; Biden proposed tax plan; Year-end Tax planning; and, Other proposals/planning tools. He recommended tax filers to avoid “red flags” that could potentially lead to one greater scrutiny. Under Biden administration, Nazreth stated, “Chances of tax cut is greater for lower and middle class Americans, with tax rate possibly to go up for those earning over $400,000.” He was of the opinion that “No tax hike in Covid times” and “New credit for people providing long term care to relatives with incentive to offer more retirement savings.” He suggested small businesses to “Apply for PPP loan forgiveness NOW” while cautioning that “Expenses are not deductible if loan is forgiven.”

Cecil Nazareth CA, CPA is a partner with Nazareth CAs & CPAs, Cecil worked at Ernst & Young and the AICPA in key strategic positions. Cecil is an Indian Chartered Accountant and a U.S. CPA. Cecil is a leading authority on Indo–US tax issues. Cecil has an M.B.A. in Finance from Fordham University and Information Technology from Columbia University. His is also an author of “International tax and compliance handbook” with special emphasis on India-U.S. taxes.

In his address, Michael Markhoff. Esq., spoke about Estate, Gift taxes and Trust Options for Children, while educating the audience on “changes you should consider to your estate plan in 2021 due to the election; Planning to minimize state estate taxes; and Trust options for children.”

Markhoff said, the new Administration under Biden is likely to lower the exemption, resulting less returns for people with higher income. He suggested to “make gifts before the end of the year” and highlighted the options for making gifts from one person to another within family to avoid higher taxes. Suggesting that Life Insurance is a good planning and will help pay for estate plans, he recommended “charity plans will leave with lower state taxes.”

Attorney Michael Markhoff, a partner at Danziger & Markhoff LLP, is a graduate of Columbia College and Brooklyn Law School and is listed in Best Lawyers in America – Trusts and Estates and Category and Super Lawyers – Trusts and Estates Category. Michael was named Trusts and Estates Lawyer of the Year for White Plains, New York for 2016 and 2018 by Best Lawyers in America.

Andy Roth, Esq., addressed the audience on “Looking into Key CARES Act and SECURE Act – Retirement Plan, including on taxes for those with Coronavirus infections. Under CARES ACT, he said, “You, or your spouse or dependent, are diagnosed with coronavirus by a CDC-approved test (including a test authorized under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act;) and, or our experience adverse financial consequences as a result of your, or your spouse or a member of your household that is, someone who shares your principal residence. “Qualified individuals can elect in their tax return to treat allowable in-service distributions in 2020 as CRDs even if their employer’s plan does not adopt CRDs,” he told the audience.

Attorney Andrew E. Roth is a partner of Danziger & Markhoff LLP with over 35 years of experience as an ERISA attorney. He is a frequent lecturer in the areas of pension, profit-sharing and employee benefits law. Mr. Roth attended University College of Arts and Science of NYU and graduated magna cum laude from Brooklyn Law School. Mr. Roth also received an LLM in Taxation from NYU School of Law.

Shiva Bhashyam CFP®, AEP®, APMA® emphasized the importance of Financial Planning in Retirement and offered Market update and outlook, Retirement planning checklist, and Behavioral investing – how and why to manage emotions during volatile markets.

Shiva Bhashyam received his undergraduate degree in economics from Tufts University and a Masters Degree in Management and Finance from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Shiva is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) practitioner, Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®), and Accredited Portfolio Manager Advisor (APMA®). Shiva has been a financial advisor with an Ameriprise Financial Private Wealth Advisory Practice, Bhashyam Wealth Management Associates. Shiva has been named a Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisor for 2019 & 2020.

Kim Ramchandani spoke about Long-Term Care Planning Options, and on ways to help you to have a conversation with your loved ones about making a plan now about your wishes. “It is important because your life and your health don’t just affect you; they affect all the people who love and care for you,” she said.

Kim Ramchandani, CHFC® is Senior Vice President, Financial Consultant, Webster Investments. Kim provides holistic wealth management services that address he full spectrum of her clients’ financial concerns, including investments, life insurance, family finances, retirement and estate planning. She has 13 years’ experience in investment services and is a Chartered Financial Consultant. ®

David Folley, who works closely with Webster Investments, in his presentation spoke about Tax Incentives to us in 2020. Pointing to the fact that a third of our society is in retirement, he said, they can be used to reimburse age related caps in the tax laws. While educating the participants on the long-term care, he said, Long Term Care, he said, it is the option to live in the community rather than be institutionalized when one is old or disabled. He warned that when one is older, Medicare and Medicaid will run their course soon, and one’s savings will end and one’s family will not be there to care for you. He suggested using Long Term Care Plans as a way to prepare to cover the cost of treatment when you need it the most.

In his brief introductory remarks, GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham reminded participants of the many efforts by GOPIO, which has led a delegation to the IRS representing Indian Americans and their many concerns, especially on the FBAR issue in the year 2011.

GOPIO-CT President Ashok Nichani welcomed the panelists and the participants. In his remarks, he highlighted the many initiatives, especially educating Indian Americans on Taxes and Tax Laws in the US. GOPIO-CT Vice president Prasad Chintalapudi moderated the Q/A after each speaker. GOPIO-Central Jersey Vie President Vijay Garg served hosted the Zoom event for GOPIO-CT. Other GOPIO leaders present at the Webinar included GOPIO-CT Secretary Rajneesh Misra. GOPIO International officers including Vice President Ram Gadhavi, Treasurer Kewal Kanda, Associate Secretary Jaswant Mody and Media Council Chair Nami Kaur, GOPIO-Manhattan President Shivender Sofat and GOPIO-Central jersey President Kunal Mehta.

Over the last 14 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policy makers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and working with other area organizations to help create a better future. GOPIO-CT – Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic and community service organization – promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs and contributions of PIOs through community programs, forums, events and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities.

GOPIO Chicago Hosts 3rd Annual Business Convention & Gala

October 17, 2017 Staff ReporterBusiness 0

Chicago IL: Chicago Chapter of Global Organization for People of India Origin (GOPIO) hosted 3rd Annual Business Convention & Gala on September 17th 2017 at Rosemont Hyatt Hotel. The event was attended by many corporate executives, State and local Government officials, Asian-American and small & minority business leaders and non-profit organization leaders. The objective of the event was to promote common cultural heritage and create binding relationship among business community.

Chairman and Founder of GOPIO Chicago Gladson Varghese welcomed all the Business Leaders, Political leaders and other esteemed guests. He also stated GOPIO is one of the largest Indian organizations outside India with Chapters in over 20 countries.

President and Founder Hina Trivedi in her Presidential address stated GOPIO Chicago is in the path of rapid Growth and invited all the business leaders to be part of the organization. Hon. D.B. Bhati, Consul of India, Chicago, in his inaugural address said Business Conference like this is a first step to bring Indian Business owners under one umbrella, Indian Americans should expand their businesses to India as well, since India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world’,

Raja Krishnamoorthi, US Congressman, who was the of the keynote speakers, congratulated GOPIO Chicago Leadership for hosting a Business Conference like this and he will support the Indian Community and GOPIO Chicago to create a business environment that will help to grow Indian businesses especially the startup companies.

State Representative Hon. Linda Chapa LaVia, said that businesses are failing mainly on account of lack of proper direction to grow and paucity of required funding to launch new technology products. She also Presented the Award to Lovely Varughese.

Mayor Mickey Straub said GOPIO Chicago created a platform for all the small and large Indian business owners to do business networking and grow their businesses. There are several awards were presented during the event, Business man of the year given to H.R Pundit Corporation CEO K.K. Reddy, Community leader of the year award was given to Dr. Bharat Barai, Student of the year award was given to Payal Patel.

U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Presented the Leadership award to Gladson Varghese, State Representative Hon. Linda Chapa Lavia presented Mother’s Rights Award to Lovely Varughese, Community service Awards were given for the Excellent community service to Consul of India D.B. Bhati, Mayor Mickey Straub, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Consul of India O.P. Meena, Humanitarian Award is given to Zahid Hameed, Sponsorship recognition is given to Lisa Victoria Waller, Syed Hussaini, Avani Trivedi, Abdul Gafoor, Manoj Kumar Singamsetti, Nick Gakhal and Nambirajan Vaithilingam.

The event was attended by the following Board members: SaviSingh, Vikrant Singh, Syed Hussaini, Hement Trivedi, Sharan Walia, Nambi Vaithilingam, Vinoz Chanamolu, Chandrasekar Reddy, Manoj Kumar Singamsetti, Hitesh Gandhi and Laddi Singh. The MC for the evening was Dr. Ajit Pant, President Hina Trivedi thanked all the dignitaries, GOPIO Board members, CEOs of various companies, Media, Sponsors and all the audience for their support for GOPIO Chicago.

The Business Conference ended with Bollywood style entertainment programs including Dances, Music and DJ. At the end of the program, Indian style Dinner and cocktails served to the guest.

GOPIO to hold Global Indian Business Summit

May 20, 2017 Staff ReporterBusiness 0

May 11, 2017 – GOPIO, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (www.gopio.net and gopio.com), together with GOPIO SOUTH AFRICA will be conducting GOPIO Africa Business Summit, at The Coastlands Hotel, Umhlanga, Durban, Kwazulu Natal from May 19 through May 21, 2017.

The theme will be INDIASPORA BUILDING AFRICA THROUGH OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND FRONTIERS, The three-day convention of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) in Durban, South Africa will strike the right note in articulating Indiaspora Building Africa through opportunities beyond frontiers.

“GOPIO International is committed to the enhancement of the lives of the South Africa Indians to connect, share and engage with global Indian communities in social, health, cultural, academic issues as well as to promote and advance business and entrepreneurship alliances with global PIOs/NRIs and India,” said Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International.

“The Global Indian Diaspora community has reached to a stage where it can contribute to the developing countries and the Indian Diaspora Business Summit in South Africa is the first GOPIO initiative to explore such opportunities and motivate PIOs and NRIs to get involved,” Dr. Abraham added.

Our International Coordinator for Africa Ishwar Ramlutchman has put together a great program for the Global Indian Diaspora Business Summit. The Summit will begin on Friday, May 19 at 17:00 Hours with a WELCOME & REGISTRATION OF

DELEGATES at The COASTLANDS UMHLANGA. The Durban Chamber Meetings will be followed by Cocktail and Dinner. The next day, Saturday, May 20, 2017 will begin with a business breakfast meeting from 7 AM to 9 AM. This would be followed by WELCOME AND INAUGUARATION OF CONVENTION. The meeting will

have the presence of Consulate General of India, Dr Shashank Vikram, Deputy Mayor of Durban, Mrs Fawzia Peer and MEC for Rural Development and Public works, Mr Ravi Pillay. From 10 AM to 11:30 will be PANEL DISCUSSION 1, The Topic will be: BUILDING AFRICA THROUGH TECHNOLOGY. The Speakers/Panelists would consist of Dr. Thomas Abraham, President, Innovative Research and Products, Inc., Stamford, CT, USA; Mr. Noel Lall, Managing Director, South Pacific Engineering Pty Ltd, Sydney, Australia; Dr. Varma Mudunuru, Practicing Physician, Trinidad and Tobago; Mr. Mahen Poinswamy, IT Engineer, CapGemini, France and Mr Krishna Shivalingaiah, Sales Manager, Accenture IT, France. The Moderator will be Ms. Michelle Micheal, Durban, South Africa.

Beena Kothari to lead GOPIO-NY new team

March 11, 2017 Staff ReporterUncategorized 0

GOPIO International called up a meeting of GOPIO-New York, which has not been a good standing chapter for the last couple of years, even though GOPIO-New York has been the first GOPIO Chapter. As per GOPIO-Executive Council discussion, GOPIO Vice President in charge of chapters Mr. Ram Gadhavi called a meeting of the GOPIO-New York members as well as others who want to become chapter members. It was held at the Indian American Kerala Center, Elmont, NY. The meeting was chaired by GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham. Founder President, GOPIO-New York Chapter, Mr. Lal Motwani briefly shared with the attendees, some of GOPIO-New York Chapter’s accomplishments since its inception in 2003.

Dr. Abraham mentioned the most active GOPIO-Chapter, Connecticut’s “exemplary” accomplishments over the years; this chapter’s focus being civic and community-oriented events and activities. After discussing how to make the chapter active again the following officers were elected with a floor nominations.

President: Mrs. Beena Kothari, Executive Vice President: Mr. Inderjit Singh, Vice President: Mr. Mihir Patel, Secretary: Dr. Rohini B. Ramanathan, Joint Secretary: Ms. Meenakshi Varadnani, Treasurer: Mr. John Paul. Board of Directors: Dr. Yusuf Syed; Mr. Shiva Bhashyam; Mr. Amar Malla; Lal Motwani was endorsed as Honorary Chair of the GOPIO-New York Chapter will Dr. Abraham will serve as an Advisor. According to reports, GOPIO-New York plans to undertake several activities in 2017.

GOPIO-New York Team for 2017-’18 with GOPIO Intl and Kerala Center officials. Sitting from l. to r.: GOPIO Intl Assistant Secretary Jaswant Modi, Dr. Rohini Ramanathan, GOPIO Intl Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, Beena Kothari, GOPIO Intl. New York Coordinator Lal Motwani, Standing from l. to r. Shiva Bhashyan, Kerala Center Exec. Director E.M. Stephen, Kerala Center President Thambi Thalappillil, John Paul, Amar Malla and Dr. Yusuf Syed

GOPIO condemns shooting on Indian Americans

March 1, 2017 Staff ReporterCulture/Religion 0

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) has condemned the recent shooting death of Indian American Srinivas Kuchibhotla of Kansas. GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham said that the “apparent hate crime” is vicious and GOPIO stands together with the victims’ families at their time of distress.

The 32-year-old Indian engineer Kuchibhotla, who was working in aviation systems for Olathe-based Garmin Ltd, died after he was shot by navy veteran Adam Purinton who, according to witnesses, yelled “get out of my country” and “terrorist” at a bar on the night of February 22nd, 2017 before opening fire.

Kuchibhotla’s colleague Alok Madasani, also an engineer from Hyderabad, was critically injured in the attack. Another bar patron, 24-year old Ian Grillot, who had tried to apprehend the gunman, was also injured in the shooting and reportedly put his life in risk to save the Indians.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and families shaken by the shooting in Kansas and we do not have place for senseless acts of violence in our country,’ said GOPIO President Niraj Baxi.

GOPIO news release stated that any act of violence fueled by hatred, xenophobia and prejudice cannot be tolerated. The local and federal law enforcement must investigate the shooting as a hate crime. “The FBI and other state agencies must initiate quick legal proceedings against the murderer and the incident must be treated as a hate crime,” said GOPIO Vice President Ram Gadhavi. We also want White House to issue a statement against such senseless violence against immigrants who are legally in America and contribute to the economy of our country,” said Dr. Rajeev Mehta, GOPIO’s International Coordinator for North America.

GOPIO has also urged the community to sign the petition to the White House https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/indian-engineers-target-hate-crime.GOPIO Chapters have also planned Candlelight Vigils around the US. One such vigil has been planned in Riverside, Southern California by GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter on March 5th.

GOPIO, with its many chapters in the USA and other parts of the world, has been working for the welfare of Diaspora Indians since 1989. It has taken up issues of the Indian Diaspora and has been promoting its interest and that of Indian around the world.
Contact: GOPIO International, Tel: 203-329-8010, [email protected].

GOPIO leads campaign to allow Diaspora Indians more time to deposit/exchange demonetization notes

February 6, 2017 Ajay GhoshFinance/Economy 0

Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship and OCI/PIO card holders are being turned away by Reserve bank of India from depositing their demonetized currencies, although the government of India had announced that it had extended the date for NRIs to deposit their currencies till June 30th, 2017. However, Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship after standing outside the gate for several hours and when they reach the gate, they have been told that only NRIs with Indian passport can go inside. “It is a major issue to be corrected,” said Dr. Thomas Abraham, in an exclusive interview with this writer. “GOPIO has now taken up this issue and has sent this appeal to Hon. Prime Minister Modi and to other officials at the Indian government.

Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) has started a Peition Online campaign appealing Prime Minister of India to allow OCI/PIO card holders as well as Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship to deposit or exchange their demonetized Indian currencies at the Reserve Bank of India branches in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Nagpur. Diaspora Indians standing in the line for hours in front of RBI offices are turned away by security guards when they reach the gate.

“Indians who left India to earn their living should not be deprived of their hard earned money because they were not in India to deposit the demonetized notes when banks were accepting the notes,” Dr. Abraham, who has been instrumental in creating GOPIO and numerous other Indian American organizations, and is considered a leading voice representing the millions of Diaspora Indians around the world, said.

“This is a major issue for the Diaspora Indians and it can be easily resolved, there is no need for the Government to separate out NRIs from PIOs, we are all (overseas Indians) Diaspora Indians,” said GOPIO International President Niraj Baxi.

With an estimate of holding an average of Rs. 5,000 per person, the 30 million Diaspora Indians and NRIs have about Rs. 15,000 crores which is about 1% of the demonetized currencies. Although Govt. of India in a notification extended the date for the exchange to June 30th at the Reserve Bank of India branches, Diaspora Indians including those holding OCI/PIO card holders are not allowed to deposit their demonetized currencies.

According to the Govt. of India’s new rules, NRIs/PIOs bringing demonetized notes have to declare and certify by an income tax official at the port of entry airport.

“The Govt. of India (GOI) has made such rules, but the problem is that this information has not been published and NRIs/PIOs arriving in India are not informed to get such document on the amount of demonetized currency one is bringing which is signed from an income tax official and secondly even if one knows about this rule, no one at the airport knows where such income tax person is sitting,” said Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International.

In an appeal to the Prime Minister of India, GOPIO wrote that it supported demonetization effort, however, Diaspora Indians are faced with some issues pertaining to demonetization which need to be corrected as follows:

Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship, and PIO and OCI card holders be given the same opportunity for depositing old and obsolete currency notes as given to NRIs (Indian Passport holders), allowing them to deposit up to Rs. 250,000 of Indian currency in the Reserve Bank of India instead of notified amount of Rs. 25,000;

Some of the NRIs, and PIO and OCI card holders have old currency notes safely kept in their residences in India for reasons such as education of their children in India, supporting old age parents, helping family members, etc., so allow RBI and Banks having NRO accounts to accept the old currency notes up to Rs. 2,50,000.

As it may not be practical on account of job situation or other reasons, Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship, and PIO and OCI card holders are not able to visit India and hence be permitted to deposit in their bank account in India through an authorized agent, the amount certified by the foreign branches of State Bank of India or Indian Missions in the country of their residence or in RBI / NRO accounts with various banks in India.

Finally, since all Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship, PIO and OCI card holders may not be able to visit India prior to June 30, 2017, they should be allowed to deposit old currency notes at either the Reserve Bank of India/NRO Accounts maintained with various banks in India up to December 31, 2017.

“Although demonetization intentions are good, the people who have been hurt finally are the sincere and hardworking Diaspora Indians who do not have any black money but GOI has restricted them to deposit their old notes,” Dr. Abraham added.

It is a major issue to be corrected and GOPIO has started a campaign among the NRIs/PIOs to sign up a petition to Prime Minister Modi through a link in its website, www.gopio.net. Hundreds of Diaspora Indians have already signed this petition.

“GOPIO had sent out an appeal to Prime Minister Modi on this issue early last week. However, we have not heard from his office. The problem is that a lot of our Diaspora Indians are waiting in India to deposit their demonetized currencies before they return back to their countries they live,” stated Dr. Abraham.

GOPIO has now launched a signature campaign so that Diaspora Indians holding foreign passport are treated equally as NRIs holding Indian passport. We are getting tremendous response from people. Please see a compilation of these responses in the attached pdf file. Please file a story in your publications since it is a major issue for the Diaspora Indians as they are not allowed to deposit their demonetized currencies.

Dr. Abraham has urged the Indian Diaspora on behalf of the GOPIO International Executive Council, to sign up this petition and forward it to family members and friends (including in India) and request them to sign up and support this campaign. “Our goal is to reach 10000 signatures in one week and we need your help and support,” the veteran community leader, said.

The petition and more information on the campaign is here: https://www.change.org/p/prime-minister-of-india-allow-diaspora-indians-and-pio-oci-card-holders-to-deposit-or-exchange-demonetizednotes?recruiter=669342563&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=share_email_responsive

· Himanshu Jain, Bethlehem, PA, USA: “My wife and I visited R.B.I., New Delhi on January 10, 2017, waited in line at the gate of the premises for about an hour, only to be told rudely by the security guards that we would not be allowed to come in because we did not have Indian passport (we hold US passports and OCI cards). We could not even speak to an authorized representative of the bank. It was a humiliating, wasteful experience. We felt grossly misled and cheated with information that kept changing frequently and depended on which authority we talked to. It has left us disgusted, confused and with no further direction about what to do with our legitimate, hard earned Indian currency. We very much appreciate GOPIO’s efforts in finding a reasonable solution to this artificially created problem.”

· Arjun Modi, Venice, CA, USA: “I am signing this because I am a hard working OCI holder, who has paid all required taxes, on time, and to Indian as well as United States government. I should be given a chance to deposit my Rs. 500, and Rs. 1,000 notes as they are hard earned, and LEGAL “WHITE” money. My OCI card states in clear writing that OCI card holders have “Parity with NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) in financial, economic and educational fields EXCEPT in relation to acquisition of agricultural and plantation properties”. This is a financial/economical, so why am I not being given parity with NRIs in this matter!?

Also, earlier, Prime Minister Hon. Shri Narendra Modiji had stated that everyone will be given a chance to deposit their hard-earned legal money after the 30th December, 2016 deadline. It is my hope that this will be considered seriously, and that I, along with my fellow OCI/PIO persons, will be given an equal chance to contribute to supporting demonetization and development of OUR INDIA. No OCI/ PIO discrimination.”

· Chandra Has Roy, Crumlin, United Kingdom: “I had saved money in my residence which was not accessible to me as I was in UK. It seems unfair that I cannot use my own white money due to the changes during my absence.”

· Mr. Singh, Oyster Bay, NY, USA: “I’m signing this this because I should deserve what I was promised by Government of India on my OCI card, equal treatment as NRIs in regards to all financial, & economical matters. Government of India is breaking its legal promise! Very disappointing!”

· Nirvana Dutt, Edgware, United Kingdom: “It is preposterous to penalize genuine NRIs who have been greatly inconvenienced by this retrospective order & steps should be taken to rectify this. For example & as smacking of Indian incompetence, there is no sign at the airport to give arriving NRIs any guidance as to what procedures to follow when carrying Indian currency which has been suddenly taken out of circulation.”

· Roopa Lutzenberger, Croydon, United Kingdom: “I have made every effort to contact RBI, three emails given by them including on circular bounced. I enquired everywhere. Now I travelled to Mumbai to try my luck all the way from Hyd. Disheartened to see it doesn’t work. Tweeted PM, Sushma Swaraj, Finance Ministry, Jaitley n more but no response. My family is tired on hearing about SBNs from me all during this trip which was supposed to be an enjoyable holiday. All we ask is fair deal. Our OCI booklet says equal financial representation which we feel deprived now of. Please act. Thank you.”

· Roop Goyal, Redlands, CA, USA: “There is no reason to treat OCI or foreigners with demonetized Indian currencies different from NRIs. The idea is that they were not in India when the demonetization occurred. In fact, June 2017 deadline is short for people staying outside India.”

· Kumar Gupta, Australia: “On one hand, OCI/PIO are praised for billions of foreign exchange remittance and investment on other hand PM Modi ji wants OCI to forget their hard earned WHITE money. The FEMA rules clearly allow import/export of 25K by any person. At least I expect Govt. of India to announce whether they are willing to consider deposit by OCI or not. If not, then why?”

GOPIO Convention passes resolution on demonetaization for NRIs

January 27, 2017 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

GOPIO officials have been receiving hundreds of telephone calls and e-mails from OCI and PIO card holders that they are being turned away from depositing their demonetized Indian currencies at the Reserve bank of India branches. Govt. of India had extended the date for depositing these notes to June 30th for NRIs. However, Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship are not included in GOI’s definition of NRIs for depositing these notes. GOPIO plans to make a major campaign to include all OCI/NRI card holders and Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship to be included so that they can deposit all their demonetized notes, press release issued here stated.

According to GOPIO leaders, Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship and OCI/PIO card holders are being turned away by Reserve bank of India from depositing their demonetized currencies, although govt. had announced that it has extended the date for NRIs to deposit their currencies till June 30th. However, Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship after standing outside the gate for several hours and when they reach the gate, they have been told that only NRIs with Indian passport can go inside. It is a major issue to be corrected. GOPIO has now taken up this issue and has sent an appeal to Prime Minister Modi. Please provide the maximum publicity so that Govt. must correct this situation.

“GOPIO (Global Organization of People of Indian Origin) Executive Council had an emergency meeting last week since GOPIO officials have been getting hundreds of telephone calls and e-mails about OCI/PIO card holders as well as Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship not being allowed to deposit or exchange their demonetized Indian currencies at the Reserve Bank of India,” Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO, said. “The Executive Council unanimously agreed to make an appeal to Prime Minister Modi to correct this issue.”

The appeal as follows: Global Organization of People Indian Origin (GOPIO) fully supports demonetization of the higher end Indian currencies so as to curtail black money and terrorism funding. However, Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) requests that:

Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship, and PIO and OCI card holders are not able to visit India and hence be permitted to deposit in their bank account in India through an authorized agent, the amount certified by the foreign branches of State Bank of India or Indian Missions in the country of their residence or in RBI / NRO accounts with various banks in India.

Finally, since all Diaspora Indians with Foreign Citizenship, PIO and OCI card holders may not be able to visit India prior toJune 30, 2017, they should be allowed to deposit old currency notes at either the Reserve Bank of India/NRO Accounts maintained with various banks in India up to December 31, 2017.

The esteemed GOPIO leaders have urged the Indian government, which has always acknowledged the role of NRIs/PIOs and expatriates in the resurgence of India and their record annual remittances to India which is the highest compared to any country in the world, to agree to the requested concession for goodwill of thirty million NRIs and PIOs and amend the Notification # RBI/2016-17/2005/DCM/(Plg) No 2170/10.27.00/2016-17 dated 31st December, 2016.

GOPIO Washington DC welcomes Ambassador Sarna

January 27, 2017 Staff ReporterU.S. 0

GOPIO Washington DC region joined with other Indian American community groups to organize a welcome reception last month in Fairfax, VA for the newly appointed Ambassador to the US Navtej Sarna and farewell to Deputy Chief of the Mission TaranJit Singh Sandhu.

Over 350 people packed the elegant ballroom of the Waterford at Fair Oaks on a Sunday evening for a sparkling community reception spearheaded by activist Dr. Yogendra Gupta. Ambassador Sarna extolled the Indian-American community which he noted forms only one percent of the US population, but its members make up 9 percent of physicians, 30 percent of start-up founders in Silicon Valley, and 50 percent of the hospitality industry. These are awe-inspiring figures given the size of the community.

GOPIO’s Washington DC Regional Coordinator Jaisingh Bhandari, in his welcome speech, complimented the outgoing DCM Sandhu and his contribution to strengthening relations between US and India. A plaque was presented to Ambassador Sandhu and well wishes for his tenure at SriLanka High commissioner.

Bhandari speaking at the occasion emphasized how Indian community supported the embassy in many occasions to bring both countries together. He further assured the Ambassador that Indian community will support, cooperate and do everything to make efforts in strengthening US-India relations.

Photo: – GOPIO Coordinator Jay Bhandari welcoming Ambassador Sarna. Sitting from l. to r.: DCM Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Ambassador Navtej Sarna and Dr. Yogendra Gupta; Bottom” Some of the organizers with Ambassadors Sarna and Sandho. From l. to r.: Sunil Singh; Satish Korpe; Jay Bhandari; Indian Ambassador Navtej Sarna; Dr. Yogendra Gupta; Kumar Singh; Ashok Batra; and DCM Taranjit Singh Sandhu

Anita Bhat elected President of GOPIO-CT for 2017

January 25, 2017 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Anita Bhat, a well known community activist has been elected new President of the Connecticut Chapter of GOPIUO. Also elected along with her are: Exec VP – Pradeep Govil, VP – Bhavna Jhuneja, Secretary – Prasad Chintalapudi, Treasurer – Biru Sharma, Trustees: Sanjay Santhanam and Varghese Ninan.

GOPIO-CT held its annual General Body Meeting and Holiday Party on Friday, December 9th at the Hampton Inn and Suites, Stamford, CT. President Shelly Nichani in his report said that GOPIO-CT had its most active year in 2016 with its Awards Banquet attended by US Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman Jim Himes, Stamford Mayor David Martin, Norwalk Mayor Harry Rillings and several other CT state legislators. GOPIO also hosted US Senator Chris Murphy. Consul General Riva Ganguly Das, Congressman Himes and Mayor Martin with interactive sessions.

GOPIO-CT also increased the scholarship from one in 2015 to four in 2016 and hope to increase it further in 2017. The Holiday Party followed which was also a fundraiser for Women’s Mentoring Network. A sum of $2,000 was donated to this organization which does mentoring service to single woman.

Contact: Anita Bhat, President, GOPIO-CT, TeL: 203-324-2935, e-mail: [email protected]

GOPIO-CT holds Youth and Young Professionals Networking Luncheon

January 25, 2017 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The GOPIO-CT Annual Youth and Young Professionals Networking Luncheon and Holiday Party was held on December 24th, 2016 at the Hampton Inn and Suites, Stamford, CT. The guest speaker at the event was Mr. Nitesh Banta, Co-Founder and CEO of B12, Forbes 30 under 30, who shared his path of career and his experiences in the business world.

Several young achievers including college students were also present and shared their experiences in college admissions. Speakers were Priya Gada (George Washington University), Mahir Nichani (Wake Forest University), Ashish Ramachandran (New York University) and Sanjana Chintalapudi (Lehigh University).

The event was organized by the Youth Coordinator, Siyan Shaikh along with the youth co-coordinators, Rahat Nichani, Amit Ramchandran, Vedant Gannu, Rahul Kahurana and Yuv Nichani. The next annual youth networking event will take place on December 24th, 2017.

Contact: Louella D’Silva, Youth and Young Professional Coordinator, GOPIO-CT, e-mail: [email protected]

GOPIO to honor prominent NRIs at annual Convention

December 28, 2016 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) is hosting its convention on 5th and 6th of January, 2017 at Hotel Le Meridien, Bengaluru in conjunction with Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conducted by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. This convention in Bengaluru attracts investors, political functionaries, business leaders from India and abroad and would be an important milestone which will chart out a course of action for the future.

GOPIO, founded in New York in 1989, has been serving the 30 million global Indian community for the last 27 years. GOPIO serves as an effective platform to channel NRI/PIO talents and investments to India their motherland. Over the years, GOPIO has taken up issues of civil rights and human rights violations of the Indian Diaspora around the world and are pleased to say that our communities have joined the political mainstream in many of the Diaspora countries. The philanthropic and social causes undertaken by GOPIO among the needy and distressed NRIs and PIOs are acclaimed by one and all.

However, visitors from abroad are ill prepared for the sudden demonetization of high value currency notes in India. “One group that will be hit hard by the government’s restrictions will be hundreds of delegates reaching Bengaluru for the Pravasi convention from all over the world,” said Sunny Kulathakal, Convention Convener and GOPIO’s Global Ambassador. He added that many of them have in their possession demonetized currency notes that they may find difficult to exchange on arrival in India. GOPIO has requested the government to facilitate the exchange of these notes at various Indian embassies or other means.

Earlier GOPIO President Niraj Baxi wrote a letter Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to extend by six months the cutoff date for depositing the demonetized notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denominations.

“NRIs and PIOs should be allowed to exchange whatever amount they have as long as they show the proof of past conversion of foreign currency to Indian currency in the last 10 years,” said Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International.

GOPIO will discuss this and other issues at the convention in Bangalore on January 5 and 6, 2017 at Hotel Le Meridien, Bengaluru. Union Minister of State for External Affairs Shri. M. J. Akbar will inaugurate the Convention at 4 PM on 5th. The Chief Ministers of Southern States of India and other prominent personalities will attend.

On 6th morning Dr. Shashi Tharoor, MP will inaugurate the panel discussion on Diaspora issues. It will be followed by panel dialogue on philanthropy by Lord Dilgit Rana, Lord Raj Loomba and others. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien will be attending the valedictory function.

The Awards Banquet function at 7 PM on Jan. 6th will be attended by the Governor Vajubhai Vala, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other dignitaries. GOPIO Community Service AwardS also will be presented at the Finale Banquet event. This year’s awardees are as follows:

Abraham M. George is engaged in several social projects including: Shanti Bhavan Residential School (www.shantibhavanonline.org) for children from socially and economically disadvantaged families; Indian Institute of Journalism & New Media (IIJNM – www.iijnm.org); Baldev Medical & Community Center to address the healthcare needs of over 15 villages in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. His work in the field of environmental health was instrumental for the removal of lead from gasoline tin India in 2000 and the creation of National Referral Centre for Lead Poisoning. George is the author of four books in international finance and environment. His recent book was “India Untouched: The forgotten face of rural poverty.

Chandu Patel has set up the Sabarkantha Health and Research Foundation (SHRF) to augment the state’s healthcare system. He started Krishna General Hospital in Himatnagar and plans to upgrade it to a medical college. The SHRF has also set up Geeta Girls Hostel for 300 college students and C. K. Patel Mahila Arts College. Chandu has also contributed to projects for abandoned children, senior citizens and other marginalized sections of society. His donations helped the victims of the Gujarat earthquake (2001), the Odisha super cyclone (1999) and other natural disasters. Chandu has been bestowed with many honors and awards for his community service and philanthropy.

After a 25 year career in Neonatology that spanned 3 continents, for the last 7 years Dr. Cherian has taken leadership of the American Mission Hospital in Bahrain. The hospital has been providing high quality care regardless of the ability to pay for the last 120 years. The Indian migrants who cannot afford insurance for healthcare have largely been the beneficiaries of hospital’s policy. A sustainable model of financing to provide this care has been created to enable us to grow and expand our reach. This model of not for profit care can be modeled in all economies of scale in both developed and developing economies.

Vinod Chandra Patel has served Town and District of Ba as a Councillor and Mayor and as an elected Member of Parliament of Fiji on two occasions. His contributions have been in the field of Education, Sports, Religion, Community Health, Local Government, and National Government and in Community and Philanthropy. He has provided outstanding service to business and commerce and in the field of sports especially in Soccer as the National Team Director and Vice President. He is the recipient of several awards given by the Government of Fiji and Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha. His philanthropic contribution to education in Fiji and India are legendary.

Dr. Ram Buxani is a 3 time Forbes awardee. He is the Chairman of the ITL-Cosmos Group, a diversified global business entity. He is a visionary entrepreneur, endowed with unfailing business acumen. His autobiography “Taking the High Road”, is now in its second edition. He is often recognized as Mr. NRI in Gulf Region. Truly multi-faceted, he is a community leader, spokesperson of NRIs, writer, theatre actor, cultural ambassador and social organizer. He has been conferred the Doctorate by Washington International University in 2004 and D.Litt Degree by D.Y. Patil University of Mumbai – for his contribution for NRIs and victims of natural calamity.

Jay is currently employed as group head (home care) for Amka, a major toiletry and household company in South Africa. He has been with Amka for 28 years. He studied marketing and sales at various business institutions in South Africa. He has been involved in various community and charity drives within South Africa. He is very passionate about the plight of women and has worked on training women and placing them in employment. He is currently setting up a training academy where abused and unemployed women will be trained and employed.

GOPIO – INLAND EMPIRE CHAPTER IN CALIFORNIA INAUGURATED

December 21, 2016 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

On December 4, 2016, the opening of another New Chapter, in Southern California, GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter, was inaugurated at the Mantra Indian Cuisine in Ontario, California. At the opening were present, the GOPIO Chairman, Dr. Thomas Abraham, The GOPIO Foundation Executive Trustee Mr. Inder Singh, and the Gopio-International Treasurer Mr. Kewal Kanda. There were many supporters and Presidents and CEO of various organizations, Corporations, President of National Federation of Indian Associations, Ashok Madan, President of Chamber of Commerce in Artesia Parimal Shah, President of Rajput Association of America Rajinder Dhunna, ASEI Foundation Chairman Subba Gopavarupa, President of County of Los Angeles Indian American Professional Association Ramesh Ramnani, Executive Member of Indian Cultural Society of Los Angeles Manmohan Chopra, Executive Member of BAPS Swami Narayan Temple (Chino Hills, CA) Kanaksinh Zala, Finance Director of City of Hawthorne Rickey Manbahal, Yogesh Patel of ICS-LA, IT Project Manager Sof uperior Court of California Venkateshwar Rao Peddi, and Franchisee, 7-Eleven Stores Tarlochan Rangi, Chief Marketing Officer of ICB International Inc. Dr. Gurmeet Multani, MD, Dr. Atul Karia D.D.S of Sierra Gateway Dental Office, Madhur Shrivastav of Sunbelt Systems and Dr. Devdat Maheshwari of Vedic Temple of Montclair, Award Winning Fashion Designer Shekhar Rahate, Chair of Inland Empire IARCA Rajbir Bagga and Founder of EVP Technology & Innovation Piyush Malik. There were over 50 attendees at the Event and majority of them were from the Inland Empire Region.

The Foundation Executive Trustee, Inder Singh, gave a scenario of what GOPIO Foundation is all about and the many accomplishments since the establishment of GOPIO in 1989. Dr. Thomas Abraham, the Chairman of GOPIO Foundation, gave the New Chapter members of GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter, advice and explained what the goal of GOPIO International is “Think globally and Act Locally” and how GOPIO International does things differently from other Indian Organizations and is connected with the Indian Diaspora, throughout the World. He also discussed the GOPIO News Publications that reaches throughout the world.

GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham installed the New Gopio Inland Empire Chapter, along with Inder Singh. Executive Committee members are as follows: President: Vasu Pawar, Executive Vice President: Dr. Kanan Modi, Secretary: Ramesh Ramnani, Jt. Secretary: Dinesh Sharma, Treasurer: Rickey Manbahal

Executive Members included Rajbir Husson, Dr. Gurmeet Multani, Baljit Kaur Toor. Venkat Peddi, Shyamal Leonard, Taneja Husson, Bharati Lunagaria, Raj Lunagaria, Raj Bagga, Suren Sabkota, Atul Karia, Tarlochan Rangi, Chanel Beery. Deepicka Mehta

Vasu Pawar, shared information on the Inland Empire region of S. California, which covers approximately 27,000 square miles. All of West Riverside County, S. West San Bernardino County, and E. Los Angeles County, Cities like Pomona Valley through Palm Springs. Inland Empire has a population of approximately 4 million and in the 19th century was predominantly a major agricultural region, of Citrus, Dairy Farms, and Wine making. Now it’s more of a Residential, Industrial and Commercial Development.

Pawar said that that our strength lies in the inexhaustible resources of our people. It is important that we renew that strength and create energy, to secure our Indian heritage, the pride of our nation and the people of Indian Origin. Our voices have to be heard. When we work together with our common values and principles and with confidence, we must reach our destination.

Pawar plans to make GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter, to be the biggest and the most productive chapter in the History of the GOPIO Establishment. The President of GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter, Ms. Vasu Pawar wishes to distinguish herself and her chapter, with uniqueness, and exceptional performance, and professionalism. She looks forward to the wholehearted support and participation of the community in the Inland Empire Region in making the GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter, a Chapter to be remembered.

The GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter President, Vasu Pawar, with a background in English Literature, Education, Finance, and Information Technology, started her carrier in the U.S., as a Systems Analyst and further transitioned into Finance.

She expressed that she has various projects on her mind, which address, Charity, Entertainment, Motivation and Strength to the Indian Diaspora. Pawar thanked everyone for attending the opening of the GOPIO-Inland Empire Chapter, to accomplish a very important task to focus and address issues of our fellow Indians and to help each other, to bring recognition and fame to each and every Indian in our community, and to address values and principles, which guide us.

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