“A Congressional Salute” to Late Dr. Sampat Shivangi on Capitol Hill

March 31, 2025April 8, 2025 Staff ReporterCommunity, Diplomacy 0

A United States Congressional Salute to the late Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a distinguished Indian American physician and community leader, was held on Capitol Hill Building in Washington, DC, honoring his life and contributions on March 26, 2025.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, philanthropist, influential Indian American community leader, and veteran leader of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) for several decades, suddenly passed away due to health reasons in his hometown, Jackson, Mississippi, on February 10, 2025.

The solemn ceremony attended by US Lawmakers, physicians, and community and faith leaders was a tribute to Dr. Shivangi, remembering his impactful work in healthcare, politics, and US – India relations. In him, the Indian American community has lost a great leader and friend whose contributions will continue to resonate for generations.

The Congressional Salute ceremony began with a Hindu invocational dance by Indrani Davaluri and Laxmi Anshika Yadav from Natya Margam, followed by Christian and Muslim prayers led by Pastor Cheryl Ravuri and Mustafa Ajmeri, Chair of AMEC’s Georgia Chapter.

Senator Roger Wicker, Rep. Michael Guest, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Rep. Shri Thanedar were among the US lawmakers who paid rich tributes to Dr. Shivangi’s enduring legacy. To recognize his contributions, the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Legacy Awards were presented to the Congress leaders for their leadership and close association with Dr. Shivangi. Also, Legacy Medals were given to all the attendees during the ceremony.

Dr. Shivangi’s wife, Dr. Udaya Shivangi, and their two daughters, Priya Kurup and Pooja Shivangi Amin, vowed to continue his noble mission. “His dream did not end with him—it lives on. I will carry forward his mission through education, philanthropy, and strengthening U.S.-India ties. I plan to write a book, make a film, expand charitable initiatives, and actively work to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and India, ensuring that his contributions inspire generations to come. Most importantly, along with our daughters, I will raise our grandchildren the way he wanted—to be idealists, to serve, and to give back to the world,” Dr. Udaya Shivangi said.

“A trailblazer of the Indian Diaspora, Dr. Shivangi has left an indelible mark on the Indian American community. Throughout the decades, he committed his time, resources, and efforts to serving AAPI and various other Indian American organizations. His leadership, vision, and tireless commitment to advocating for the community set him apart as a pillar of strength and guidance,” Dr. Udaya Shivangi said.

It was only about a month prior to his sudden death that the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the newly built Dr. Sampat Kumar S. Shivangi Cancer Hospital in Belagavi, Karnataka. Spanning 1,75,000 square feet with a capacity of 300 beds, the hospital was built with cutting-edge technology with funds donated by Dr. Sampat Shivangi, she pointed out.

“Dr. Shivangi believed that success is measured not by what we accumulate but by the lives we touch. That is the legacy I promise to uphold. Sampat, you are not gone—you are here, in the walls of the hospital you built, in the halls of the school you founded, and in the hearts of those who loved you. And I will honor you every day of my life,” Dr. Udaya Shivangi assured.

Priya Kurup reflected on her father’s journey from a small-town boy in India to a respected physician and political advocate. She said, “At any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety. My father always chose growth.”

Pooja S. Amin emphasized his commitment to improving healthcare access, especially for underserved communities. She highlighted his role in strengthening U.S.- India relations and described his example as “a guiding light for all of us.”

Senator Roger Wicker from Mississippi described Dr. Shivangi as “the American dream” and “the new face of our multiculturalism.” He commended his lifelong advocacy for mental health, noting how he championed the cause despite societal reluctance to recognize it as a treatable medical condition.

Rep. Michael Guest from the state of Mississippi, who received the Legacy Award for his “dynamic leadership,” called it an honor to pay tribute to “an incredible individual.” He shared that Dr. Shivangi’s love for family was as strong as his passion for politics, recalling how he often spoke about his two daughters and three grandchildren.

In Dr. Shivangi’s memory, Rep. Guest presented his family with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol, along with three copies of the Extension of Remarks entered into the Congressional Record.

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois described Dr. Shivangi as “one of the most helpful people in the community,” always advocating for others and championing causes that needed attention on Capitol Hill.

Rep. Shri Thanedar from the state of Michigan, who shared a hometown with Dr. Shivangi in Belgaum, India, praised his lifelong dedication to the community and his lasting impact on countless lives.

Representing the Indian Embassy, Minister for Community Affairs Jagmohan emphasized Dr. Shivangi’s commitment to U.S.-India relations, noting that his philanthropic work extended beyond the U.S., with the cancer hospital in India providing world-class treatment to underprivileged patients.

Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, President of the American Multiethnic Coalition and the event’s emcee, described Dr. Shivangi’s work as a “symphony of service resonating in both the Senate halls of America and the humble lanes of Karnataka.” He highlighted Dr. Shivangi’s pivotal role in securing official recognition for Indian Americans as a distinct identity in the U.S. Senate.

Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of AAPI, acknowledged Dr. Shivangi’s selfless service to AAPI. “There was no committee he didn’t serve on, and he was present at every convention and global health summit,” he noted. Recalling their friendship, Dr. Kathula said, “He would call me, advise me, and even scold me when I was wrong. He was like a father figure and a true role model.”

Shekhar Tiwari of AHC fondly remembered Dr. Shivangi’s patience and ability to explain complex topics with a warm smile. He shared that the only time he saw him visibly upset was during discussions on Canada’s treatment of Indian diplomats and Indian communities.

H.R. Shah, Chairman of TV Asia, described Dr. Shivangi as a “true Republican” and a grassroots leader who worked closely with elected officials. He humorously compared him to a potato, a versatile vegetable that “complements every dish,” symbolizing his ability to connect with people from all backgrounds.

Dr. Vasavi Chakka, Dean of The Global Eye International Institute for Leadership, NFP, announced the establishment of the Dr. Sampatkumar Shivangi Memorial Lecture, to be held annually in both the U.S. and India. The inaugural lecture will be delivered by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, he said.

Neil Khot, President of the Indian American Business Coalition, praised Dr. Shivangi’s generosity, recalling the recent naming of a lane in Mississippi in his honor. Parthiban Shanmugam, Convenor of Tamils for Trump in Georgia, announced the launch of the organization under the leadership of Dr. Udaya Shivangi and Dr. Vijay Prabhakar.

Dr. Udaya Shivangi expressed her gratitude to all “congressional leaders, doctors, and friends who made this tribute possible. A special acknowledgment to the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the Indo-American Political Forum for Education—which Sampat worked so hard to establish with a distinct name as Indian American Political rather than Asian—and the American Hindu Coalition for their support. A heartfelt thanks to AMEC (American Multi-Ethnic Commission USA) and Global Eye Magazine President Dr. Vijay Prabhakar and his team. This tribute would not have been possible without your efforts. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for honoring him.”

The evening concluded with a sense of unity, highlighting Dr. Shivangi’s remarkable contributions across healthcare, politics, and philanthropy. As his family and friends vowed to continue his mission, the event served as a powerful testament to his enduring legacy in both the U.S. and India.

Dr. Shivangi has been actively involved in several philanthropic activities, serving with Blind Foundation of MS, Diabetic, Cancer and Heart Associations of America. Dr. Shivangi has a number of philanthropic works in India including Primary & middle schools, Cultural Center, and IMA Centers that he opened and helped to obtain the first ever US Congressional grant to AAPI to study Diabetes Mellitus amongst Indian Americans.

In addition to establishing the Dr. Sampat Kumar S. Shivangi Cancer Hospital in Karnataka, through the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation, Dr. Shivangi has established multiple charitable institutions in India, including primary and middle schools, community halls, and healthcare facilities, greatly enhancing educational and healthcare access for underserved communities.

In the U.S., Dr. Shivangi has contributed to establishing a Hindu Temple in Jackson, Mississippi, providing a cultural and spiritual hub for the Hindu community and beyond. Recognized for his exemplary service, a street in Mississippi bears his name, a testament to his contributions to healthcare and community welfare.

Over the years, in the pursuit of its vision, the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation has come to be known for its belief and tireless efforts that every individual deserves an opportunity to thrive, and is a beacon of hope, fostering resilience and building a more inclusive and harmonious world for all.

At the heart of societal transformation, The Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation stands as a testament to unwavering commitment and compassion. The foundation is built upon the pillars of education, healthcare, mental well-being, tribal support, women’s empowerment, and sports development. With a profound understanding of the multifaceted needs of underprivileged communities, we have designed a range of initiatives that address these vital aspects of human well-being.

As the first Indian American to serve on the Board of the Mississippi State Department of Mental Health, Dr. Shivangi has made significant strides in mental health advocacy. His leadership extends to national positions, serving on the National Board of Directors for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), appointed by Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden.

A dedicated advocate for Indo-U.S. relations, Dr. Shivangi has contributed to key initiatives, including the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement, collaborating with President George W. Bush to strengthen ties between the two nations. His commitment to India is further reflected in his coordination efforts with the White House to lift sanctions against India during President Bill Clinton’s administration.

Dr. Shivangi said, he always thought about why the Indian Americans, especially the Physician fraternity, consisting of more than 100,000 physicians in the United States, are not willing to undertake philanthropy in their homeland or in USA. “My hope and prayers is that many more will follow me just as my dream has come true today. I urge my fellow Indo-American physicians to join this movement and help change the world for the better. My humble request is that let us be the change and bring this movement to make our world different tomorrow. I hope my prayers will be answered one day and all humanity lives in a better world.”

Indo-American Press Club Unveils 2025 Board of Directors and Appoints Dr. Indranill Basu Ray as Chairman

February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 Ajay GhoshCommunity, India, India, USA 0

(New York, NY: Feb 20, 2025) Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), the largest organization of media personnel of Indian origin in North America announced a dynamic Team of members to the Board of Directors today. Dr. Indranill Basu Ray – Cambridge, MA will lead this decade-old organization as the Chairman of the BOAD of IAPC. Ginsmon Zacharia, the Founding Chairman of IAPC is the Secretary of BOD. Ajay Ghosh, the Founding President of IAPC, who along with Ginsmon is a permanent member of the BOD, will serve as a member of the BOD.

Dr. Indranill Basu Ray – Chairman, Cambridge, MA

Dr. Indranill Basu Ray | MBBS, MD(Med), DNB (Card), DSc, FACP, FACC is a Cardiologist trained in one of the newer subspecialties called Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology. Dr. Basu-Ray was a faculty guide at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT’s) LinQ program in Boston. He is a cardiac electrophysiologist on staff and the present director of cardiovascular research at the Memphis Veterans Medical Center in Memphis, TN, USA. He is also an Adjunct Professor at The School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.

Dr. Basu-Ray is the Editor of a popular book on Cardiology with over forty authors contributing to it from all over the world. He is the founder and President of the American Academy for Yoga in Medicine, an organization of physicians, scientists, and researchers who work on scientific validation of yoga as an integrative therapy. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the world’s first reference book written by over 75 physicians and researchers worldwide called “The Principle and Practice of Yoga in Cardiovascular Diseases,” published by Springer Nature. Dr. Basu Ray has delivered invited lectures worldwide on the role of Yoga and meditation in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases. He was awarded a Doctorate in Science (Honoris Causa) by the world’s largest and oldest Yoga University- SVYASA, in Bengaluru, India. He has appeared on multiple television channels in this country and abroad, discussing Yoga as disease prevention. He writes blogs for numerous Indian and US Newspapers.

⁠Ginsmon Zacharia – Board Secretary – NY

Ginsmon P. Zacharia, founding chairman and a permanent member of the IAPC Board of Directors, is the managing director of the Global Reporter Channel. A noted journalist who has made innovations in the field of visual media, he is also the chairman of Jai Hind News, a Malayalam newspaper with editions in the United States and Canada. He is the editor-in-chief of Aksharam magazine, a leading Malayalam magazine in the United States, and President and CEO of the English language magazine Asian Era. Ginsmon, who was the manager of The South Asian Times, a leading English language newspaper in America, started his journalism career 16 years ago by taking charge of the European edition of the Deepika, a Malayalam daily. As the US director of Jai Hind TV, he hosted the first reality show with candidates from all the states in the US. The reality show, attended by hundreds of Malayalees, was telecast in around 250 episodes, helped many amateur singers showcase their talent to the world, and was hailed as a historic first for the Malayalees in North America.

Kamalesh Mehta – NY

Kamlesh Mehta, founder of Forsyth Media Group, the most popular Indo-American English media group in North America, is a member of a prominent Jain family in Rajasthan and started a diamond business in Bombay in 1985. Mehta immigrated to New York in 1986, to expand his business, where he started trading in gemstones and diamonds. Mehta entered the media business in 2008, and his weekly newspaper, ‘The South Asian Times’ for the Indian community, has won several awards. He is also the publisher of Forsyth Media Group’s ‘The Asian Era’. In January 2010, he was appointed director of business and economic development by the Nassau County administration, where he served for five years. In 2009, he became president of the Rotary Club of Hicksville South, NY. In 2015-16, he had the opportunity to become governor of RI District 7255. He has been honored as a leading Rotary donor and has worked for many religious organizations and social causes. He is the founder of the Rajasthan Association of North America and organized the first Indian Day Parade in Hicksville, which started in 2012. Mehta is also the recipient of many lifetime achievement awards and certificates of recognition from various community organizations.

⁠Dr. Mathew Joys – Las Vegas, NV

Well-known writer and columnist in North America, Dr. Matthew Joys, was one of the early members of the IAPC. He has worked in the finance department of the central government in India and has been the director of the Rotaract Club and the national general secretary of the Employees Federation. He also served as executive vice president and secretary to the board of directors of IAPC. Author of ‘Entey Priyey,’ a collection of love poems based on the Bible and the Ten Commandments, and the anthology ‘American Aadukal,’ he spends his time as the executive editor of Jai Hind, a New York-based newspaper, as well as the associate editor of the Express Herald, a member of the editorial board of Nerkazhcha weekly, and the English portal The UNN. He is also the Global Media Chairperson of the Global Indian Council, Inc.

Ajay Ghosh – CT

Ajay Ghosh, the Chief Editor of The Universal News Network (www.theunn.com), graduated with a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI in 1998. Before 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 worked as the New York Bureau Chief of Indian Reporter and World News and was the New York Bureau Chief of India Tribune published from Chicago. Ajay served as the Executive Editor of NRI Today and was the Bureau Chief of The Indian Express, North American Editions. He was the founding Editor of The Asian Era. Since 2012, Ajay has been serving as the Media Coordinator of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). In 2023, he was appointed as the Consultant for Public Relations Content for ITServe Alliance, the largest association of IT Solutions and services organizations in the United States. Ajay is the founder and President of the Indo-American Press Club.

Having a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Delhi University, Ajay served as an Adjunct Faculty at Fordham Graduate School of Social Work from 2006 to 2016. He was an Adjunct Professor at Bridgeport University, where he taught Psychology. In 2019, he was part of a nearly 200-member expedition to Antarctica, the 7th Continent on Earth. Ajay was honored with the Excellence in Reporting Award by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin for several years. In 2018, Ajay was honored with the Excellence in Journalism Award by NAMAM, In 2023, he received the prestigious Excellence in Journalism Award by The Kerala Center in New York.

Meena Chittilapilly – Dallas, TX

Meena Chittilappilly is a well-known socio-cultural media activist from Dallas, Texas. Meena, who has been a presenter and newsreader on Asianet for 15 years and later a presenter on Jai Hind TV, is currently working for Flowers TV. A graduate with a degree in analytical economics and business administration, Meena has worked in the field of education for over 20 years and is currently working as a school director in the project management office at ‘Quantiphi’, an international software company. She was also active as the arts and marketing and branding chairperson of the Malayali Engineers Association of North Texas (MEANT), and the president of the Dallas badminton club. Moreover, she has been running the Swarajathi School of Music and Dance since 2001 and is an active organizer and media personality who has been making her mark in the professional theater industry. During her college years, she was the secretary and union councilor of the All-Saints College arts club, Thiruvananthapuram from 1990-92 and presented many programs as an anchor with Doordarshan, the national television channel of India.

⁠CG Daniel – Houston, TX

CG Daniel is a well-known writer and amateur photographer with a large following, especially on social media. He is an environmentalist and a cynophile. He has participated in television panel discussions about American and Indian politics. He is the founder, president, and CEO of the Deepalaya Foundation Inc., USA, a nonprofit charitable organization. He has served the IAPC at various levels, including as chapter president, national vice president, and general secretary.

Parveen Chopra – Vice Chairman – NY

Parveen Chopra, who has been a journalist in the United States for decades, is the managing editor of the South Asian Times. He also works for the interfaith journal ‘One World Under One God’. Parveen holds a master’s degree in mass communication from Punjab University and has also worked for India Today magazine. Parveen is also the founder of Spiritual Magazine Life Positive and was a former president of IAPC.

Dr. P V Baiju – Edmonton, Canada

A well-known Canadian author and columnist. P.V. Baiju is a noted journalist who has presented the issues of Canadian Malayalees to the world through his columns.

Jacob Kudasanad – Houston

Jacob Kudassanad (Kuruvila), the founding Vice President of the Houston chapter of Indo American Press Club, is a long-standing member of the organization. Through his time in IAPC, he has also been able to serve as the National Secretary in 2018 and National Executive Vice President in 2019.

He began his journalistic activities in his college days, where he got the chance to be the Alleppy district representative for All Kerala Sahitya Sangam. He also served as the editor for his college’s magazine, as well as various other local magazines. During his time as editor, he was able to harness his creativity and publish many short stories and poems in printed media. More recently, he has contributed to news publications for the Malayalam News Media.

Since immigrating to the US in 1985, Jacob has been an active and committed member of various cultural and religious organizations. He joined the World Malayalee Council in 1995 and has held several positions, including President, Chairman, and Secretary, at the American Region and Houston Province levels. Additionally, he served as the General Secretary of the Malayalee Association of Greater Houston in 2000. His dedication has persisted throughout the years, as he serves as the Vice president–admin in the American Region. He was able to serve as the Houston Bureau Coordinator for Reporter TV USA.

Finally, he is the current World Malayalee Council Chairman (America Region) and has been a member of St. Thomas Orthodox Cathedral Houston’s Golden Jubilee Souvenir Committee Chair. He was blessed with the opportunity to serve in multiple capacities. He hopes to continue to be a contributing member of the Indo–American community in the coming years.

Reji Philip – Philadelphia

Reji Phillip, a reporter for the Global Reporter channel, is a well-known journalist. He holds a master’s degree in journalism and manages the creative department in several visual and online media.

Jacob Abraham – NY

Jacob Abraham is the CEO of Hedge Events and the publisher of Hedge News. With a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset, Jacob has successfully led Hedge Events to become a premier event management company known for its innovative and high-quality events. His leadership has also elevated Hedge News, a prominent publication that offers in-depth analysis and insights into the financial world. Jacob’s expertise and dedication have made him a respected figure in the industry, continually pushing the boundaries of excellence in event management and financial journalism.

Dr. Renee Mehra – Chicago

Dr. Renee Mehra has been working in the media since 1990. Renee is the host of the show ‘Renee Report’, which provides media coverage on politics, health, human interest stories, fashion, film, theater, and current affairs. She has been the president of Reenbow Media, an advertising, broadcasting, and public relations company since 2010. She acted as associate director of external affairs department NYC health, hospitals/Queens from 2014 to 2017. After earning a BA in broadcast journalism from the University of New York, and an MA in political management and public relations from George Washington University, she received her doctorate from Walden University.

Ashly Joseph – Canada

As the editor-in-chief of Jai Hind News, a popular Malayalam newspaper in North America, Ashly Joseph served as a member of the board of directors of the IAPC. He began his journalistic career in 2003 as a reporter for the ‘Malayalee Manas’, a Florida-based newspaper, and was the editor-in-chief of ‘Yatra’, a 2006 magazine aimed at new immigrants. From 2007 to 2009 he was the managing editor of ‘Aksharam’, a leading Malayalam magazine in the United States. Ashley’s numerous articles on social, political, and literary issues have already been published in print and online media. Ashly is an executive member of the Edmonton Catholic Association and is the founder of several associations and clubs. He came to the United States in 1999 and is known among the Malayalees as a great organizer. Ashley, who now works for the Canadian postal department, was the coordinator of the International Volleyball Tournament in Niagara. A graduate of Botany from Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha, Ashley was active in politics and society during his studies before he graduated with a degree in hotel management and moved to the United States.

Joseph John – Calgary, CAD

Joseph John is a Canadian Freelance Guild (CFG) and a Calgary-based freelance reporter who is president of the Alberta Chapter of the Indo-American Press Club. Joseph has also been the president of the Malayalee Cultural Association of Calgary, which has more than 4,000 members. Joseph John, founder, and organizer of ‘Kavya Sandhya’, which promotes literary and cultural activities for children in Kerala, is also a volunteer reporter for the Global Reporter section of the Reporter Malayalam channel. He is the founder and organizer of the ‘NAMMAL’ (North American Media Center for Malayalam Art and Literature) association with media support from news web portals in three Indian languages — ‘Nammal Online’ in Malayalam, ‘Namathu Tamil’ in Tamil, and ‘Namaste World’ in English. In addition, he serves as the national coordinator of ‘Nammalude Pallikoodam’, which conducts free Malayalam online classes with the help of volunteers from various provinces. He is the secretary of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers and for the Association of Materials Protection and Performance, Calgary Chapter of the U.S. & Canada Northern Area.

Korason Varghese – NY

Writer and journalist from New York. His column “Valkannadi” is published in media such as Manorama. He has published two collections of articles. He has done interviews through Reporter TV and Kalavedi TV. He is present in cultural and social spaces. He has worked as a Wise Men International Club public relations officer and as a UN representative. He has received the 2017 Emalayali Popular Writer Award, the 2022 Fokana Literary Award, the Kalavedi Literary Award, and the 2023 IAPC Social Media Influencer Award. Korason is also a cartoonist living in Long Island.

In the introduction to the collection of essays by Korason, Valkannadi, renowned writer Benyamin writes that the views of society can be accurately reflected through the unbiased Valkannadi. The writer, who has been living as a Malayali immigrant in America for a long time, has a passion for language and social commitment that seriously enhances the value of Valkannadi. – Benyamin.

Over the past five years, Reporter TV and Kalavedi TV have been a part of Korason’s backroom staff through several in-depth interviews. A.J. Philip, a veteran journalist who has been the editor of newspapers like The Indian Express and The Tribune, said, “I found Korason to be a very capable and cheerful interviewer. You can tell that there was proper homework behind it. The questions were quite probing but not intimidating. I wish television anchors in India were like Korason,” A.J. Philip wrote in his column.

He worked as a columnist, cartoonist, and editor in the newspapers Kairali and Jai Hind, published in New York. He was the editor of Fokana’s Haritham Smaranika, held in Albany, and served as the executive president and general secretary of the Indo-American Press Club. He managed a column in the leading online media Marunadan Malayali for more than five years.

Worked as a Senior Analyst for the Independent Budget Review for the Nassau County Government of New York. Experience in the formulation of basic political policy in the United States. Worked as a Finance Manager for the New York City Government for a quarter of a century.

Joji Kavanal – NY

Joji Kavanal is the treasurer of the Malankara Archdiocese of North America and one of the founding directors of the Indo-American Press Club. He also served as the director of Jaihind TV USA from 2010 to 2013. He was chief editor of Malankara Deepam annual publication of the Malankara Archdiocese

He practiced law in the Kerala High Court and is also a treasurer of the Kerala High Court Advocates Association. His extensive experience and dedication have significantly contributed to his leadership roles within the diaspora community, bridging cultural and professional ties between India and North America.

Anil Augustine – Atlanta

Anil Augustine is an Atlanta, GA resident, professionally a Public Relations (PR) management consultant in the International Trade, Media, and Human Resource domains. Currently, he serves as the Managing Director of an enterprise advisory firm www.AuguDEST.com, which assists global entrepreneurs, in reaching expertise in bilateral global trade, Media, PR & HR avenues. He is the joint promoter at the marketplace aggregator – Rural Agricultural Development Technology and Research. Anil has served on the Henry County, GA School System’s Advisory Council Board Since 2016 and the Eagle’s Landing Middle School as President of the PTO Board since 2019. As a Public Relations Officio, Anil is involved with Global

Indian Council, a diaspora advocacy institution, and World Malayalee Council, the global fraternity of Kerala diaspora. He serves on the Executive Board of the Federation of Malayalee Associations in Americas (FOMAA) immigration advocacy initiative – L.i.F.e, FOMAA Legal Immigration Federation, Anil served as the National Vice-president of IAPC and enthusiastically contributed to the International Media Convention in 2018 as the IAPC Atlanta Chapter Advisory Board member.

Dr.Eapen Daniel – Philadelphia

Dr. Eapen Daniel, a distinguished academic and community leader, resides in Pennsylvania, near the Philadelphia area. He graduated with a degree in Botany from Mar Thoma College in 1973 and later earned an M.Sc. from S.B. College, Changanacherry, securing a university rank. He began his career as a Botany professor at Mar Thoma College (Kerala University), where he taught until 1982.

After moving to the United States, Dr. Daniel pursued graduate studies at Texas Tech University and worked at the Texas Health Sciences Center until 1986. He then relocated to Pennsylvania, where he studied and worked at the University of Pennsylvania, earning his Doctorate. He continues to contribute to the university in the field of Genomics Integration.

Beyond academia, Dr. Daniel has been an influential figure in civic and religious circles in the Philadelphia Tri-State area for over 30 years. He has served as the President of PAMPA, a leading Malayalee association, and currently leads the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) PA Chapter. His dedication to the Mar Thoma Church is notable, having served as Chief Editor of The Mar Thoma Messenger for 12 years and as a long-time youth activity coordinator and senior advisor for various church organizations.

Dr. Daniel’s contributions have been recognized with numerous achievement awards from civic and religious organizations, underscoring his lifelong commitment to community service and leadership

Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) is a fast-growing syndicate of print, visual, online, and electronic media journalists and other media-related professionals of Indian origin working in the United States, Canada, and Europe. IAPC is committed to enhancing the working conditions of our journalists, exchanging ideas, and offering educational and training opportunities to our members, aspiring young journalists, and media professionals around the globe; and also by honoring media people for their excellence, and for bringing positive changes through their dedicated service among the community. Today IAPC envisages its vision through collective efforts and advocacy activities through its 15 Chapters across the US and Canada, in the larger public sphere. Visit www.indoamericanpressclub.com to learn more.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi – A Tribute

February 13, 2025February 14, 2025 Ajay GhoshProfile 0

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, philanthropist, influential Indian American community leader, and a veteran leader of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) for several decades suddenly passed away due to health reasons in his hometown, Jackson, Mississippi on February 10, 2025. In him, the Indian-American community has lost a great leader, and friend whose contributions will continue to resonate for generations.

A trailblazer of the Indian Diaspora, Dr. Shivangi has left an indelible mark on the Indian American community. Over the decades, he dedicated his time, resources, and efforts to serving AAPI and numerous other Indian-American organizations. His leadership, vision, and tireless commitment to advocating for the community set him apart as a pillar of strength and guidance.

It was only about a month ago that the President of India, Droupadi Muramu inaugurated the newly built Dr. Sampat Kumar S. Shivangi Cancer Hospital in Belagavi, Karnataka. Spanning 1,75,000 square feet with a capacity of 300 beds, the hospital was built with cutting-edge technology with funds donated and raised by Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a distinguished Indian American community leader with a profound impact on healthcare, education, and cultural preservation across India and the United States.

“A dream comes true! It fills my heart with immense pride and gratitude for the new state-of-the-art Dr. Sampat Kumar S Shivanagi Cancer Hospital in my beloved home state, Belagavi, has finally become a reality,” Dr. Sampat Shivangi, who donated his family fortunes to build this much needed, cancer hospital in a rural region in the state of Karnataka, said.

“Having lived in India for three decades, in not so privileged and progressive parts of the world, it always touched my heart and Atma why so and why not we all have equal playing field on earth,’ Dr. Shivangi said, when asked about what led him to to donate his money, time, efforts and skills.

“During my years in hospitals as a student, resident and staff, I was devastated. I had a great desire to do something that helps people, including for the need to establish a cancer hospital in my native town, where people have to travel hundreds of miles away for such a treatment and possibly could not afford the travel, stay, or medical expenses.”

Describing the goals of the Cancer Hospital and the Charitable Foundation, Dr. Shivangi, a soft-spoken physician says, “The Charitable Foundation was set up several years ago to establish, promote, and provide the needy and the downtrodden fellow human beings with opportunities to access quality education, promote mental health awareness, ensure healthcare equity, support tribal communities in their holistic development, empower women to break barriers, and leverage sports as a catalyst for positive change.”

Dr. Shivangi has been actively involved in several philanthropic activities, serving with Blind Foundation of MS, Diabetic, Cancer and Heart Associations of America. Dr. Shivangi has a number of philanthropic works in India including Primary & Middle Schools, Cultural Center, and IMA Centers that he opened and helped to obtain the first ever US Congressional grant to AAPI to study Diabetes Mellitus amongst Indian Americans.

Dr. Shivangi was deeply involved in numerous organizations, both in the U.S. and India, and worked on initiatives that supported healthcare, education, and cultural preservation. Notably, he played a key role in organizing AAPI’s Legislative Day, a pivotal event where lawmakers and community leaders discuss critical issues affecting Indian Americans.

At the heart of societal transformation, the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation stands as a testament to unwavering commitment and compassion. The foundation is built upon the pillars of education, healthcare, mental well-being, tribal support, women’s empowerment, and sports development. With a profound understanding of the multifaceted needs of underprivileged communities, we have designed a range of initiatives that address these vital aspects of human well-being.

Born in Athani, Karnataka in India on October27, 1940, Dr. Shivangi studied medicine at Karnataka Medical College, Hubli Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, and at the Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri. He migrated to the US in 1976.

Dr. Shivangi served as Advisor to the US Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2005 to 2008 during the George W. Bush administration. He was the founding president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin in Mississippi and was a former president and chair of the India Association of Mississippi. Dr. Shivangi attended several National Republican Conventions as a Delegate. He was recognized as Person of the Year by the Indian American Republican Committee.

A recipient of numerous awards, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, The US Congressional Recognition Award, the Ellis Medal of Honor Award, Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indo-American Press Club, Dr. Shivangi’s legacy reflects a lifelong dedication to improving lives through healthcare, philanthropy, and international diplomacy. He joined the Executive Advisory Board of the Washington, D.C.-based think tank International Leaders Summit. The state of Mississippi honored Dr. Shivangi by naming a lane after him in one of the premier medical facilities at Boswell Regional Medical Center.

Dr. Shivangi said, he always thought about why, the Indian Americans especially, the Physician fraternity, consisting of more than 100,000 physicians in the United States are not willing to undertake philanthropy in their homeland or in USA. “My hope and prayers is that, many more will follow me just as my dream has come true today. I urge my fellow Indo-American physicians to join this movement and help change the world for the better. My humble request is that let us be the change, and bring this movement to make our world different tomorrow. I hope my prayers will be answered one day and all humanity lives in a better world.”

Shivangi is married to Dr. Udaya S. Shivangi, MD, and the couple are blessed with two daughters: Priya S. Shivangi, MS (NYU); and Pooja S. Shivangi, who is an Attorney at Law. His passing leaves a profound void in the community, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations and his absence will be deeply felt. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time.

AAPI Mourns the Passing Away of Dr. Sampat Shivang

February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 Ajay GhoshHealth, News 0

“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden passing away of Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, an influential Indian American community leader, and a veteran leader of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI),” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of AAPI.

Describing Dr. Shivangi as “A trailblazer of the Indian Diaspora,” Dr. Kathula, who has known Dr. Shivangi for decades and has worked closely in several AAPI-led initiatives, said, “Dr. Shivangi has left an indelible mark on the Indian American community. Over the decades, he dedicated his time and efforts to serving AAPI and numerous other Indian American organizations. His leadership, vision, and tireless commitment to advocating for the community set him apart as a pillar of strength and guidance.”

“AAPI is proud of Dr. Shivangi’s numerous accomplishments, leadership, and contributions to the greater cause of the Indian Diaspora, Indo-US relationship, and particularly for his dedication to enhancing the mission of AAPI,” said Dr. Sunil Kaza, Chair of AAPI Borad of Trustees.

Among many other initiates that Dr. Shivangi led at AAPI during his decades long association, the most outstanding has been his leadership in organizing the annual Legislative day under several Presidents of AAPI. He was instrumental in personally contacting and inviting several lawmakers, including prominent US Senators and Congressman to the Legislative day.

Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President-Elect of AAPI said, “The Indian American community has lost a great leader, philanthropist, and friend whose contributions will continue to resonate for generations. Through his philanthropic efforts, Dr. Shivangi touched countless lives, always striving to make a positive impact both in the healthcare sector and within the broader community.

“A dream comes true! It fills my heart with immense pride and gratitude for the new state-of-the-art Dr. Sampat Kumar S Shivangi Cancer Hospital in my beloved home state, Belagavi, has finally become a reality,” Dr. Sampat Shivangi, who donated his family fortunes to build this much needed, cancer hospital in a rural region in the state of Karnataka, said here.

Dr. Shivangi is married to Dr. Udaya S. Shivangi, MD, and the couple are blessed with two daughters: Priya S. Shivangi, MS (NYU); and Pooja S. Shivangi, who is an Attorney at Law. “His legacy will remain an inspiration for all who knew him, and his absence will be deeply felt. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time,” Dr. Kathula said.

George J Kottarathil (1956-2024): Beloved Husband, Father, Social Worker, and Community Advocate

September 15, 2024 Ajay GhoshProfile, Profiles 0

OBITUARY
George J Kottarathil (Varkey) was born on May 22 1956, in the city of Nakapuzha, Kerala, India. He was the son of the late Joseph and Rosamma Kottarathil and was one of seven siblings.

Blessed to be raised in a strong community, George’s heart knew the value of family.
He held a Master’s degree in history from Newman College. obtained a post graduate diploma in Public Relations and Journalism from SCMS Cochin School of Business. Then, he received his master’s in social work from Rajagiri College of Management and Applied Social Sciences. He was an active member in Indian politics pioneering programs to help those in need. He worked as the President of Thodupuzha’ Newman College Unit of KSC, student wing of Kerala Congress, and a Member of State Committee of Thodupuzha Taluk President.

He joined hands in marriage with Kochurani in 1988 and they immigrated to the United States settling in Bellerose, New York, in 1991. Together they raised two beautiful daughters, Gitu and Gintu.

In America, George dedicated his life to serving the underprivileged as a Social Worker and Domestic Violence Liaison, for the Human Resources Administration of New York. George was also a part of many associations focused on community service. He was an active member of St. Mary’s Syro Malabar Church. His Raasiya ain- neupaniess in tie hited States, ad bat india voice.

George was a founding member of Indo-American Press Club incorporated and a member of the local Chenda group.

He will forever be known as an avid poet, an active member of the community and a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Unexpectedly, on September 12, 2024, George passed away peacefully surrounded by family, , leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kochurani, his daughters, Gitu and Gintu, son in laws, Libu and Anil, and his grandson, Ishan.

Let us carry forward the spirit of George’s laughter, the warmth of his affection, and the depth of this sincere love.

Indo-American Press Club Announces Board of Directors for 2024 And Beyond – Dr. Joseph Chalil Will Serve as the Chairman of BOD

August 6, 2024August 18, 2024 Ajay GhoshMedia, Media 0

(New York, NY: August 4, 2024) Indo-American Press Club, the largest organization of media personnel of Indian origin in North America announced a dynamic Team of members to the Board of Directors today. Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, publisher of The Universal News Network will lead this this decade-old organization in his capacity as the Chairman of the BOAD of IAPC. Ginsmon Zachariah, the Founding Chairman of IAPC is the Secretary of BOD. Ajay Ghosh, the Founding President of IAPC, who along with Ginsmon is a permanent member of the BOD, will serve as a member of the BOD.

Dr. Joseph M Chalil – Chairman – FL
Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, MD, MBA, FACHE is a visionary leader in the healthcare industry, currently steering Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc., as Chief Medical Officer. His illustrious career spans various facets of healthcare, innovation, and policymaking, underscored by his role as President of NovoAmerica Health Group and Clinical Consultants International, LLC. Dr. Chalil’s academic credentials are equally impressive, with a rich medical foundation from JJM Medical College, enhanced by an MBA in Healthcare Administration from Davenport University, and further specialization with a Global Health Delivery Certification from Harvard University. Currently, he is advancing his expertise in medical law and ethics as an LLM candidate at the University of Edinburgh Law School.

Dr. Chalil is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is recognized for his leadership in healthcare administration. His contributions to healthcare and policy are internationally recognized, with numerous awards highlighting his leadership and innovative thinking. He serves as the Complex Health Systems Chair & Faculty at Nova Southeastern University’s College of Business, and NSU MD executive leadership council member, and a respected voice in the media, discussing U.S.-India relations and healthcare policy.

⁠Parveen Chopra – Vice Chairman – NY
Past President of IAPC, Parveen Chopra has recently founded the premier wellness and spirituality web magazine, ALotusInTheMud.com, from New York. A journalism professional of three decades standing, he was earlier editor of The South Asian Times weekly newspaper, and ‘One World Under God’ interfaith journal. With a postgraduate degree in mass communication from Panjab University in Chandigarh, he worked for India Today magazine and founded a spiritual and personal growth magazine named Life Positive from New Delhi. He is a trained teacher of Transcendental Meditation and yoga.

⁠Ginsmon Zacharia – Board Secretary. – NY
Ginsmon P. Zachariah, founding chairman and a permanent member of the IAPC Board of Directors, is the managing director of the Global Reporter Channel. A noted journalist who has made innovations in the field of visual media, he is also the chairman of Jai Hind News, a Malayalam newspaper with editions in the United States and Canada. He is the editor-in-chief of Aksharam magazine, a leading Malayalam magazine in the United States, and President and CEO of the English language magazine Asian Era. Ginsmon, who was the manager of The South Asian Times, a leading English language newspaper in America, started his journalism career 16 years ago by taking charge of the European edition of the Deepika, a Malayalam daily. As the US director of Jai Hind TV, he hosted the first reality show with candidates from all the states in US. The reality show, attended by hundreds of Malayalees, was telecast in around 250 episodes, helped many amateur singers to showcase their talent to the world, and was hailed as a historic first for the Malayalees in North America.

⁠Kamalesh Mehta – NY
Kamlesh Mehta, founder of Forsyth Media Group, the most popular Indo-American English media group in North America, is a member of a prominent Jain family in Rajasthan and started out with a diamond business in Bombay in 1985. Mehta immigrated to New York in 1986, with the intention of expanding his business, where he started trading in gemstones and diamonds. Mehta entered the media business in 2008, and his weekly newspaper, ‘The South Asian Times’ for the Indian community, has won several awards. He is also the publisher of Forsyth Media Group’s ‘The Asian Era’. In January 2010, he was appointed director of business and economic development by the Nassau County administration, where he served for five years. In 2009, he became president of the Rotary Club of Hicksville South, NY. In 2015-16, he had the opportunity to become governor of RI District 7255. He has been honored as a leading Rotary donor and has worked for many religious organizations and social causes. He is the founder of the Rajasthan Association of North America and organized the first Indian Day Parade in Hicksville, which started in 2012. Mehta is also the recipient of many lifetime achievement awards and certificates of recognition from various community organizations.

Dr. Indranill Basu Ray – Cambridge, MA
Dr. Indranill Basu Ray | MBBS, MD(Med), DNB (Card), DSc, FACP, FACC is a Cardiologist trained in one of the newer subspecialties called Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology. Dr. Basu-Ray was a faculty guide at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT’s) LinQ program in Boston. He is a staff Cardiac Electrophysiologist and the present Director of Cardiovascular Research at the Memphis Veterans Medical Center in Memphis, TN, USA. He is also an Adjunct Professor at The School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.

⁠Dr. Mathew Joys – Las Vegas, NV
Well-known writer and columnist in North America, Dr. Matthew Joys, was one of the early members of the IAPC. He has worked in the finance department of the central government in India and has been the director of the Rotaract Club and the national general secretary of the Employees Federation. He also served as executive vice president and secretary to the board of directors of IAPC. Author of ‘Entey Priyey’, a collection of love poems based on the Bible and the Ten Commandments, and the anthology ‘American Aadukal’, he spends his time as the executive editor of the Jai Hind, a New York-based newspaper, as well as the associate editor of the Express Herald, and as a member of the editorial board of Nerkazhcha weekly. He is also the Cabinet Member and Media Chairperson of the Global Indian Council (GIC) Inc.

Ajay Ghosh – CT

Meena Chittilapilly – Dallas, TX

Meena Chittilappilly is a well-known socio-cultural media activist from Dallas, Texas. She held the National Vice-Chairperson position of the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) from 2022-2024 and the President position of the IAPC Dallas chapter from 2019-2021. Meena, who has been an anchorperson, interviewer, and newsreader on Doordarshan, Asianet USA, and Jai Hind TV, is currently working for Flowers TV USA.

Holding a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) and another Master’s in Analytical Economics, Meena has worked in the field of education as a school director and a teacher for many years and is currently working as a project manager at Quantiphi, an international IT company. She was also active as the Marketing and Branding Chairperson (2019), Arts Chairperson (2020-2022), Board of Directors (2022-2024) of Malayalee Engineers of North Texas (MEANT), and the President of the Dallas Badminton Club (2010-2011). Moreover, she has been running the Swarajathi School of Music and Dance since 2001 and is an active organizer and media personality who has been making her mark in the professional theater industry. During her college years, she was the Arts Club Secretary and Union Councilor of All-Saints College, Thiruvananthapuram from 1990-1992.

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CG Daniel – Houston, TX
CG Daniel is a well-known writer and amateur photographer with a large following, especially on social media. He is an environmentalist and a cynophile. He has participated in television panel discussions about American and Indian politics. He is the founder, president, and CEO of the Deepalaya Foundation Inc., USA, a nonprofit charitable organisation. He has served the IAPC at various levels, including as chapter president, national vice-president, and general secretary.

⁠Dr. P V Baiju – Edmonton, CAD
A well-known Canadian author and columnist. P.V. Baiju, is a noted journalist who has presented the issues of Canadian Malayalees to the world through his columns.

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Jacob Kudasanad – Houston
Jacob Kudassanad (Kuruvila), the founding Vice President of the Houston chapter of Indo American Press Club, is a long-standing member of the organization. Through his time in IAPC, he has also been able to serve as the National Secretary in 2018 and National Executive Vice President in 2019.

Since immigrating to the US in 1985, Jacob has been an active and committed member of various cultural and religious organizations. He joined the World Malayalee Council in 1995 and has held several positions, including President, Chairman, and Secretary, at the American Region and Houston Province levels. Additionally, he served as the General Secretary of the Malayalee Association of Greater Houston in 2000. His dedication has persisted throughout the years, as he serves as the Vice President – Admin in the American Region. He was able to serve as the Houston Bureau Coordinator for Reporter TV USA.

⁠Reji Philip – Philadelphia
Reji Phillip, a reporter for the Global Reporter channel, is a well-known journalist. He holds a master’s degree in journalism and manages the creative department in several visual and online media.

⁠Jacob Abraham – NY
Jacob Abraham is the CEO of Hedge Events and the publisher of Hedge News. With a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset, Jacob has successfully led Hedge Events to become a premier event management company known for its innovative and high-quality events. His leadership has also elevated Hedge News, a prominent publication that offers in-depth analysis and insights into the financial world. Jacob’s expertise and dedication have made him a respected figure in the industry, continually pushing the boundaries of excellence in event management and financial journalism.

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Dr. Renee Mehra – Chicago
Dr. Renee Mehra has been working in the media since 1990. Renee is the host of the show ‘Renee Report’, which provides media coverage on politics, health, human interest stories, fashion, film, theater, and current affairs. She has been the president of Reenbow Media, an advertising, broadcasting, and public relations company since 2010. She acted as associate director of external affairs department NYC health, hospitals/Queens from 2014 to 2017. After earning a BA in broadcast journalism from the University of New York, and an MA in political management and public relations from the George Washington University, she received her doctorate from Walden University.

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Joseph John – Calgary, CAD
Joseph John is a Canadian Freelance Guild (CFG) and a Calgary-based freelance reporter who is president of the Alberta Chapter of the Indo-American Press Club. Joseph has also been the president of the Malayalee Cultural Association of Calgary, which has more than 4,000 members. Joseph John, founder, and organizer of ‘Kavya Sandhya,’ which promotes literary and cultural activities for children in Calgary. In addition, he serves as the Canada coordinator of ‘Malayalam Mission’, (The Malayalam Mission is an initiative by the Government of Kerala to provide opportunities for Malayalees around the world to learn their mother tongue, Malayalam). He was the secretary of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers and for the Association of Materials Protection and Performance, Calgary Chapter of the U.S. & Canada Northern Area.

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Cyriac Scaria – San Antonio
Medi-Lightment journalist, entrepreneur, wellness missionary, and proponent of “BYGA Wellness” (Build Yourself Great Again) via health and nutrition. Currently working on projects that reduce medication dependence and increase happiness through overall well-being.

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Korason Varghese – NY
Previously served as the General Secretary and Executive VP of IAPC. Columnist, Cartooninst and interviewer. Regional Director, Y’s Men’s Club of US and UN Representaive. Served as the International PRO of the worldwide Service Organization. Published Two books and recieved several Media Awards and recognitions.

⁠Joji Kavanal – NY
Joji Kavanal is the treasurer of the Malankara Archdiocese of North America and one of the founding directors of the Indo-American Press Club. He also served as the director of Jaihind TV USA from 2010 to 2013. He was chief editor of Malankara Deepam annual publication of the Malankara Archdiocese

He practiced law in the Kerala high court and is also a treasurer of the Kerala High Court Advocates Association. His extensive experience and dedication have significantly contributed to his leadership roles within the diaspora community, bridging cultural and professional ties between India and North America.

⁠Anil Augustine – Atlanta
Anil Augustine is an Atlanta, GA resident, professionally a Public Relations (PR) management consultant in the International Trade, Media, and Human Resource domains. Currently, he serves as the Managing Director of an enterprise advisory firm www.AuguDEST.com, which assists global entrepreneurs, in reaching expertise in bilateral global trade, Media, PR & HR avenues. He is the joint promoter at the marketplace aggregator – Rural Agricultural Development Technology and Research. Anil serves on the Henry County, GA School System’s Advisory Council Board Since 2016 and the Eagle’s Landing Middle School as President of the PTO Board since 2019. As a Public Relations Officio, Anil is involved with Global Indian Council, a diaspora advocacy institution and World Malayalee Council, the global fraternity of Kerala diaspora. He serves on the Executive Board of the Federation of Malayalee Associations in Americas (FOMAA) immigration advocacy initiative – L.i.F.e, FOMAA Legal Immigration Federation, Anil served as the National Vice-president of IAPC and enthusiastically contributed to the International Media Convention in 2018 as the IAPC Atlanta Chapter Advisory Board member.

Morley J. Nair – Philadelphia
Morley (Murali) J. Nair is a lawyer, journalist, writer, and a world traveler. Based in Philadelphia, PA, he has been practicing law for the past 30 years. He has published numerous works of fiction and non-fiction, both in English and Malayalam, in the leading newspapers and periodicals in India, the United States, the UK, and the Middle East. For several years, he has been the Jeddah-based correspondent for the Riyadh Daily newspaper, published from the Saudi capital. Mr. Nair has published four books in Malayalam – two collections of short stories, a travelogue, and a novel; and two books in English – The Monsoon Mystic (a novel) and Chorashastra: The Subtle Science of Thievery (published by Penguin India and short-listed for the Bangalore-based Atta Galatta Literary Prize – translation of eminent writer V.J. James’ novel Chorashastram). He has received a number of literary awards, both in India and the US. He is also an avid world traveler – has visited about 120 countries and has been on about 40 cruises around the world so far.

Indo American Press Club (IAPC) is the fast-growing syndicate of print, visual, online, and electronic media journalists and other media-related professionals of Indian origin working in the United States, Canada, and Europe. IAPC is committed to enhancing the working conditions of our journalists, exchanging ideas, and offering educational and training opportunities to our members, aspiring young journalists, and media professionals around the globe; and also by honoring media people for their excellence, and for bringing positive changes through their dedicated service among the community. Today IAPC envisages its vision through collective efforts and advocacy activities through its 15 Chapters across the US and Canada, in the larger public sphere.

A New Chapter in Russia-India Relations: PM Modi’s Moscow Visit and Its Strategic Implications

July 17, 2024July 19, 2024 Amb. Pradeep Kapur & Dr. Joseph M. ChalilEditorial, World 0

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow marks a significant moment in the long-standing relationship between Russia and India. This visit, his first since the start of the Ukraine War, occurs during a critical juncture in global geopolitics. Notably, it coincides with the NATO Summit in the United States, highlighting the increasing relevance and strategic importance of Modi’s trip.

The historical ties between Russia and India have been robust and characterized by mutual cooperation in the defense, energy, and technology sectors. This enduring partnership has withstood the test of time and various global political shifts. PM Modi’s visit underscores India’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening this relationship despite the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Russia is a country with great strategic depth. Russia, the largest country in the world, straddling over 11 time zones, possesses a myriad of strengths that contribute to its unique position on the global stage. Russia has traditionally been a significant player in various aspects, from its rich history and diverse culture to its vast natural resources and geopolitical influence. Russia is endowed with abundant natural resources. The country is a leading producer of oil, natural gas, minerals, and timber, making it a key player in the global economy. As a major energy exporter, Russia plays a crucial role in shaping global energy markets and geopolitical dynamics.

Furthermore, Russia’s geopolitical influence, even though somewhat diminished, is still a significant strength that sets it apart on the world stage. As a permanent United Nations Security Council member and a nuclear superpower, Russia wields considerable political clout and influence in international affairs. The country’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia gives it a unique vantage point in shaping regional dynamics and global politics. Its cultural legacy serves as a source of national pride and identity for the Russian people, fostering a strong sense of unity and belonging. Moreover, Russia’s scientific and technological prowess is another notable strength that propels the country forward in the modern era. Russian scientists and engineers have made significant contributions to fields such as space exploration, nuclear technology, and military innovation. Russia’s advancements in military technology, such as hypersonic missiles and advanced defense systems, further underscore its technological capabilities.

India’s economic potential is a key strength that sets it apart as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. It is a diverse economy spanning sectors such as information technology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing. India is home to a young and dynamic population, making it a demographic powerhouse. With a median age of around 28 years, India’s youthful workforce presents a significant advantage in terms of productivity, innovation, and economic growth. This demographic dividend has the potential to drive India’s economic progress and competitiveness on the global stage.

Moreover, India’s technological advancements and innovation ecosystem are key strengths that position it as a global hub for technology and entrepreneurship. The country’s thriving startup ecosystem has produced numerous unicorns and tech disruptors in sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, and artificial intelligence. India’s information technology and software development prowess has also earned it a reputation as a leading destination for IT services and outsourcing. With a history dating back thousands of years, India has been a cradle of civilization and a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions.

These strengths collectively position India as a significant player in the global economy and innovation landscape. By effectively leveraging these strengths and addressing key challenges, India can continue as a rising global power in the 21st century.

From a U.S. strategic perspective, Modi’s Moscow visit is multifaceted. Firstly, it reflects India’s independent foreign policy, which emphasizes strategic autonomy. India has consistently balanced its relationships with major global powers, including the U.S., Russia, and China, to safeguard its national interests. This visit reaffirms India’s “strategic autonomy” stance, ensuring it does not overly align with any single bloc.

The timing of this visit, parallel to the NATO Summit, is particularly significant. As NATO members deliberate on the security challenges posed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine, India’s engagement with Moscow signals its intent to act as a stabilizing force and mediator in the region. This approach could provide a counterbalance to the escalating tensions and foster dialogue between the West and Russia.

Additionally, PM Modi’s role during the G7 Summit, where he engaged with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscores India’s potential as a peace broker. Given India’s strategic relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, it is uniquely positioned to mediate and possibly broker a ceasefire. This initiative could be pivotal in de-escalating the conflict, which has far-reaching implications for global energy and food security, both severely impacted by the ongoing war.

Escalating global conflicts and problems pose significant challenges to the international community, requiring concerted efforts and multilateral cooperation to address them effectively. From geopolitical tensions and territorial disputes to environmental degradation and public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the world faces a complex array of interconnected issues that demand urgent attention and sustainable solutions.

The prolonged Russia-Ukraine conflict has significantly strained global resources and supply chains, contributing to rising inflation and threatening energy and food security. Most G7 leaders, except Italy, are facing electoral challenges, with President Biden’s sinking poll numbers against Trump, who has claimed he could secure a ceasefire in Ukraine before taking office.

In the recent UK elections, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservative Party suffered its worst electoral defeat in 200 years, with the Labour Party winning a landslide. In the French elections, President Macron’s party lost badly to the leftist coalition, while the rightist National Rally (RN) made very significant gains. These results were greatly impacted by the political fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war.

As the conflict continues, the question remains: how long can the world afford the Russia-Ukraine war? Its prolonged duration not only exacerbates economic instability but also endangers global security. Tensions are increasing significantly all over the world. While the NATO meeting is being held in Washington DC, China and Belarus are holding their joint military exercises on the Ukraine and Poland border. Ukraine’s attacks inside Russian territory and the spate of recent terrorist attacks inside Russia have further exacerbated the already fraught situation on the ground.

India’s intervention, leveraging its strong diplomatic ties and strategic autonomy, could be a crucial step toward resolving the conflict and stabilizing the global order. By fostering dialogue, diplomacy, and collaboration among nations under India’s stewardship, the global community can work toward resolving conflicts, mitigating crises, and building a more peaceful, secure, and sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, PM Modi’s visit to Moscow during his third term and amidst the NATO Summit underscores the nuanced and strategic nature of India’s foreign policy. It highlights India’s role as a key global player capable of engaging with multiple power centers to maintain regional and global stability. For the U.S., this visit is a reminder of the importance of respecting India’s strategic autonomy while continuing to build a robust bilateral partnership. As the global order evolves, the Russia-India relationship will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future geopolitical landscape, with India emerging as a crucial mediator and stabilizer on the world stage.

“Ambassador Pradeep Kapur is an acknowledged “luminary diplomat” with a distinguished career, working closely with several Indian Prime Ministers and other heads of government, heads of state, and global leaders and policymakers in different continents of the world: Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and South America.

Prof (Dr) Joseph M. Chalil is the chairman of the Indo-American Press Club and publisher of Universal News Network. He is an adjunct professor and Chair of the Complex Health Systems advisory board at Nova Southeastern University’s School of Business and the chief medical officer at Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc.

Dr. Chalil, Amb. Kapur, and Prof. M.D. Nalapat recently published a best-seller book, “India Beyond the Pandemic: A Sustainable Path Towards Global Quality Healthcare.”

Dr. Sampat Shivangi Nominated And Elected As An Official Delegate At The Republican National Convention 2024

June 28, 2024 Ajay GhoshProfile 0

“It is a great pleasure and honor to share the news that I have been nominated and elected as official delegate at the upcoming Republican National Convention to be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from July 13 to July 19, 2024 at the Fisher Forum, Milwaukee, WI,” Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician and an influential Indian American community leader announced here today.

A conservative lifelong member of the Republican Party, Dr. Shivangi, who is the founding member of the Republican Indian Council and the Republican Indian National Council, said “This will be my sixth time serving as a National Delegate at the Republican National Convention to nominate the Republican Party nominee to contest the national presidential election. My nomination began as early as when President George W. Bush was nominate in New York, NY, then Senator George McCain, Governor Mitt Romney, President Donald Trump in 2016 and 2020. Now again to re-elect President Donald Trump

in 2024 in Milwaukee, WI. I feel this is a unique honor and an opportunity for an Indian American to represent the community at the national level.”

Dr. Shivangi said he will be part of the luncheon being hosted by Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi in honor of the delegates at Northern Lights in Milwaukee, WI on July 16,24 for the Mississippi delegates.

Dr. Shivangi is the National President of the Indian American Forum for Political Education, one of the oldest Indian American Associations. Over the past three decades, he has lobbied for several Bills in the US Congress on behalf of India through his enormous contacts with US Senators and Congressmen.

A close friend to the Bush family, he was instrumental in lobbying for the first Diwali celebration in the White House and for President George W. Bush to make his trip to India. He had accompanied President Bill Clinton during his historic visit to India. Dr. Shivangi is Dr. Shivangi has worked enthusiastically in promoting the India Civil Nuclear Treaty and recently the US-India Defense Treaty that was passed in US Congress and signed by President Obama.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi was awarded the highest civilian honor, the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Sanman Award in 2016 in Bengaluru by the Hon. President of India, Shri Pranap Mukhejee. He was awarded the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in New York in 2008. He is married to Dr. Udaya S. Shivangi, MD, and the couple are blessed with two daughters: Priya S. Shivangi, MS (NYU); Pooja S. Shivangi who is an Attorney at Law. Dr. Sampat Shivangi was conferred with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indo-American Press Club during the 9^th annual International Media Conference in Stamford, CT on October 8^th, 2023.

“I look forward to this great convention where the Republican Vice President nominee will speak on Wednesday and President Trump will speak on Thursday, July 18,24.,” Dr. Shivangi said. “I am sure it will be a great convention and I wish to thank the GOP for the courtesy and honor of the invitation as a National Delegate of the Republican Party at the 2024 National Convention.”

TheUNN Corporation Announces Joint Publication of Ambassador T.P. Sreenivasan’s New Best-Selling Book

June 26, 2024June 28, 2024 Ajay GhoshNews, Publication 1

Boca Raton, FL – TheUNN Corporation has announcedthe agreement to jointly publish Ambassador T.P. Sreenivasan’s latest best-selling book, “Diplomacy Liberated: The Golden Treasury of T.P. Sreenivasan” to readers worldwide. This significant partnership underscores TheUNN Corporation’s commitment to promoting influential voices in international relations and global diplomacy.

Ambassador Sreenivasan’s new anthology, meticulously edited by Wing Commander Ragashree D. Nair (Retd) offers an unparalleled insight into the complex world of diplomacy. Spanning over two decades of insightful essays and personal reflections, the book delves into pivotal geopolitical events and diplomatic challenges that have shaped modern international relations.

“We are honored to collaborate with Ambassador T.P. Sreenivasan on this important publication,” said Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, TheUNN News’s Publisher and Indo-American Press Club’s Chairman. “His extensive career and profound understanding of global affairs make this book an invaluable resource for scholars, diplomats, and anyone interested in the nuances of international relations.”

“Diplomacy Liberated: The Golden Treasury of T.P. Sreenivasan” is a compelling and thought-provoking anthology that offers a rare glimpse into the world of international diplomacy through the eyes of one of India’s most esteemed diplomats. This collection, edited with precision by Wing Commander Ragashree D. Nair (Retd), encapsulates over two decades of insightful essays, personal reflections, and profound analyses.

T.P. Sreenivasan’s extensive career as a diplomat lends an unmatched authenticity and depth to his writings. The book is organized into thematic sections that cover a wide range of topics, from the intricacies of India-US relations and the evolution of multilateral diplomacy to the complexities of India-China relations and the significance of the Indian diaspora. Each essay is a testament to Sreenivasan’s keen intellect, deep understanding, and unparalleled experience in the field of international relations.

One of the standout features of “Diplomacy Liberated” is its exploration of critical issues such as nuclear disarmament, environmental diplomacy, and the ethics of political appointments. Sreenivasan’s analysis of these topics is not only insightful but also provides a nuanced understanding of the global challenges and diplomatic strategies that shape our world today. His reflections on multilateral diplomacy, in particular, offer a deep dive into the workings of the United Nations and other international bodies, highlighting both the successes and shortcomings of these institutions.

The personal memoirs interspersed throughout the book add a touching and humanizing element to this scholarly work. From his early days in Japan to his involvement in higher education reforms in Kerala, Sreenivasan’s anecdotes provide an intimate look at the life and experiences of a seasoned diplomat. The poignant tribute to his late wife, Chandralekha Sreenivasan, is especially moving and adds a layer of personal depth to the narrative.

The book’s comprehensive coverage of diverse geopolitical events and diplomatic challenges makes it an essential read for scholars, diplomats, and anyone interested in international relations. Sreenivasan’s ability to contextualize historical events within contemporary geopolitical frameworks is particularly commendable. His essays, updated and contemporized, provide a lasting legacy of his efforts to interpret and influence global events.

In “Diplomacy Liberated,” readers will find a treasure trove of wisdom, analysis, and personal reflections that are both enlightening and engaging. The anthology not only chronicles past events but also offers valuable insights into present and future trajectories of global diplomacy. It is a golden treasury of diplomatic wisdom that will remain relevant and influential for years to come.

Overall, “Diplomacy Liberated: The Golden Treasury of T.P. Sreenivasan” is a masterful collection that reflects the breadth and depth of Sreenivasan’s experience and vision. It is a fitting tribute to a distinguished career and a valuable addition to the literature on international diplomacy.

TheUNN Corporation, known for its dedication to fostering global understanding through impactful publications, views this partnership as a significant milestone. “This collaboration not only enhances our publication portfolio but also aligns with our mission to disseminate knowledge that bridges cultural and political divides,” added Mr. KPR Nair, Managing Director of Konark Publishers Pvt. Ltd.

The book is available on Amazon worldwide and is set to captivate a global audience, offering timeless wisdom and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our world.

About TheUNN Corporation:

TheUNN Corporation and The Universal News Network is a leading publishing and media company that promotes diverse voices and fosters global understanding. Through innovative collaborations and a commitment to quality content, TheUNN Corporation aims to enlighten, educate, and inspire readers worldwide.

Title: Diplomacy Liberated: The Golden Treasury of T.P. Sreenivasan

Author: T.P. Sreenivasan

Editor: Wing Commander Ragashree D. Nair (Retd)

Publisher: Konark Publishers and TheUNN Corporation

Publication Date: June 2024

ISBN: 978-1-7359048-9-4

Healthcare Inequalities, Racial Disparities, Access To Care, Social Determinants, Structural Inequities

June 25, 2024 Staff ReporterDiplomacy, Global 0

Palm Beach, FL – June 22, 2024 – TheUNN Corporation, a leader in global publishing and media, has announced its latest milestone: a joint publication agreement to publish Ambassador SD Muni’s best-selling book, “Dabbling in Diplomacy: Authorised & Otherwise.” This agreement, in collaboration with Konark Publishers Pvt. Ltd., marks a significant step in TheUNN Corporation’s mission to bring influential and insightful works to a worldwide audience. The book is now available for purchase on Amazon globally.

Ambassador SD Muni, a renowned expert in South Asian politics and international relations, offers readers an unparalleled glimpse into the world of diplomacy. His memoir, “Dabbling in Diplomacy: Authorised & Otherwise” provides an insider’s perspective on critical political developments in South Asia, including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Laos. The book combines Prof. Muni’s extensive academic knowledge with his personal experiences, making it a compelling read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in international affairs.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Ambassador SD Muni on this exceptional publication,” said Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, Publisher of Universal News Network and TheUNN.com, and Chairman of Indo-American Press Club. “Ambassador Muni’s insights and firsthand accounts offer a unique and valuable perspective on diplomacy and regional politics. This joint publication agreement aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of global issues through high-quality content.”

TheUNN Corporation’s partnership with Konark Publishers Pvt. Ltd. and Ambassador Muni highlights its dedication to supporting and disseminating works that contribute to the global discourse on diplomacy and international relations. By making “Dabbling in Diplomacy” available on Amazon worldwide, TheUNN Corporation ensures that this important work reaches a broad and diverse audience.

KPR Nair, Managing Director of Konark Publishers Pvt. Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Working with TheUNN Corporation and Ambassador SD Muni has been a rewarding experience. This book is a testament to Ambassador Muni’s profound understanding of South Asian politics and his ability to convey complex diplomatic narratives in an engaging manner. We are proud to be part of this joint effort to bring his valuable insights to a global readership.”

Ambassador Muni’s memoir has already garnered significant attention and praise from experts and readers alike. The book’s detailed recounting of pivotal moments in South Asian history and its exploration of the human aspects of diplomacy have resonated with audiences, making it a best-seller in its category.

In “Dabbling in Diplomacy,” Ambassador Muni shares engaging anecdotes and profound insights from his interactions with senior leaders in South Asia. His tenure as India’s Special Envoy to Southeast Asian countries on UNSC Reforms and as Ambassador to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic enriches the narrative, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical landscape.

TheUNN Corporation invites readers worldwide to explore Ambassador SD Muni’s “Dabbling in Diplomacy: Authorised & Otherwise.” The book is now available for purchase on Amazon in both digital and print formats. This collaboration not only underscores TheUNN Corporation’s commitment to excellence in publishing but also its dedication to promoting knowledge and understanding of international relations. For more information about TheUNN Corporation and its latest publications, please visit TheUNN.com.

About TheUNN Corporation:

TheUNN Corporation is a global leader in publishing and media, dedicated to delivering high-quality content that informs, educates, and inspires. With a diverse portfolio of publications and media offerings, TheUNN Corporation strives to foster a deeper understanding of global issues and promote informed discourse across a wide range of topics.

TheUNN Corporation Announces Joint Publication Agreement for Ambassador SD Muni’s Best-Selling New Book

June 23, 2024June 28, 2024 Ajay GhoshDiplomacy, Global 2

Palm Beach, FL – June 22, 2024 – TheUNN Corporation, a leader in global publishing and media, has announced its latest milestone: a joint publication agreement to publish Ambassador SD Muni’s best-selling book, “Dabbling in Diplomacy: Authorised & Otherwise.” This agreement, in collaboration with Konark Publishers Pvt. Ltd., marks a significant step in TheUNN Corporation’s mission to bring influential and insightful works to a worldwide audience. The book is now available for purchase on Amazon globally.

Ambassador S.D Muni, a renowned expert in South Asian politics and international relations, offers readers an unparalleled glimpse into the world of diplomacy. His memoir, “Dabbling in Diplomacy: Authorised & Otherwise” provides an insider’s perspective on critical political developments in South Asia, including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Laos. The book combines Prof. Muni’s extensive academic knowledge with his personal experiences, making it a compelling read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in international affairs.

About TheUNN Corporation:

Media Contact:

TheUNN Corporation

Email: [email protected]

Website: TheUNN.com

IAPC Announces New Leadership for 2024 & Beyond

June 2, 2024June 5, 2024 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Media, Media 0

Dr. Joseph Chalil, New Chair of the Board of Directors

Azad Jayan, National President; Shan Justus, General Secretary; Sunny George, Treasurer

New York: The Chair of the Board of Directors and the National Committee of the Indo American Press Club (IAPC), the largest association of journalists of Indian origin in North America has been announced.

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, a prominent physician executive, currently serving as the Chief Medical Officer at Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc, whose extensive contributions to healthcare innovation and research are recognized internationally, with numerous publications in leading journals will serve as the Chair of IAPC’s Board of Directors for the year 2024 and Beyond. Dr. Chalil is also an LLM Medical Law and Ethics candidate at the University of Edinburgh Law School, further enhancing his expertise in the intersection of healthcare, law, and ethics. Author of several Best sellers, he is the co-founder, serving as the President & CEO of TheUNN Corporation.

Azad Jayan, who has a journalism-business background is the National President. Writer James Kurikattil is the executive vice president. Shan Jestus, an IT expert, is the general secretary and Sunny George is the Treasurer. Others who will lead the decade-old organization into the new decade and beyond are: Sunil Manjinakkara (New York Chapter), Shibi Roy (Houston Chapter), Patricia Umashankar (Dallas Chapter), Tozin Abraham (New York Chapter) will serve as Vice Presidents and Prof.

Joy Pallatummatham (Dallas Chapter), Nisha Jude (New York Chapter), and Chacko James (Houston Chapter) will serve as the Secretaries. Thrissur Jacob (New York Chapter) and Jomon Joy (Connecticut Chapter) were selected as the Joint Treasurers. Milly Philip (Philadelphia Chapter) was selected as the National Coordinator for the United States and Noble Augustine (Alberta Chapter) as the National Coordinator for Canada. Gigi Kurian (New York Chapter) and Rijesh Peter (Edmonton Chapter) will manage the news distribution. Ex-President Aashmita Yogiraj is an ex-officio member of the National Committee.

Azad Jayan started TV journalism as a trainee reporter in Manorama News in 2006 and worked in Manorama News for 6 years as a reporter in Thiruvananthapuram and Delhi bureaus and as a producer in the main desk. Mainly dealt with were Supreme Court news, right-wing politics, and cinema beats. In addition to reporting many human interest stories, many prominent figures have been interviewed. He has also directed several television live shows and documentaries. MC tops the list of Indian media in Canada. He is the Director of News and the Editor-in-Chief of Kan Malayali newspaper. He holds a BA in English and an Advanced Diploma in Mass Communication and Video Production from Mahatma Gandhi University.

Shan Justus currently serves as the web designer of The Universal News Network. A Software Engineering Manager an the Health and Wellness/Pharmacy Information Technology team in San Antonio, Texas, he is also known for his creative writings. Shan has always preferred digital technology. Shan Justus has over a decade of experience in the news media industry.

Mr. James is a famous writer, who has previously worked as Vice President of IAPC. Known not only in the US but also among Malayalees around the world, James Kurikattil is a regular presence in workshops and seminars that emphasize scientific independent thinking.

Sunny George is an IT professional with twenty-five years of experience in information technology and consulting services. He is president and CEO of SGTC LLC and manager of Hedge Media, providing IT consulting services to other organizations. Oversaw Bloomberg’s and Reuters’ real-time market data service for IT asset management and trading floor operations. Mr. George currently serves as the Treasurer of the Malayali Association of Long Island and is active in organizations such as the Salem Marthomma Church of Eastern Long Island. Mr. Sunny George is an influencer in social media, implementing state-of-the-art technology and media solutions in collaboration with various organizations.

Sunil Manjanikara works as Program In Chief at Global Reporter Channel. Sunil, who was the program director of Jaihind TV USA, excelled in photography and videography. He has produced several TV programs and was instrumental in launching the visual media initiative of the American Malankara Atibhadrasan of the Syrian Orthodox Church. He has also worked as the Public Relations Officer of Malankara Atibhadrasan from 2017 to 2019. For Jaihind TV, Sunil organized a reality show for the first time in all the states of America, which became a historic event. About two hundred and fifty episodes of the reality show, in which thousands of Malayalis participated, were aired. Many singers have been able to present their talent to the world through this program.

Shibi Roy Athura, Vice President of the IAPC Houston Chapter, is a person who has excelled both in the field of service and media. In spite of her nursing job, Shibi managed to play the role of a passionate radio jockey and make it a success. He is the founder and CEO of Mallu Cafe Radio and a radio personality. Shibi is notable for its efforts to spread goodness and love through the medium of radio. Mallu Cafe Radio promotes physical and mental health programs. Shibi Roy, the elected 2020-2021 Women’s Representative of the Malayali Association of Greater Houston, is the Chairperson of the Women’s Forum of the American Malayali organization FOMA.

Mr. Tozin Abraham is a broadcast professional with a rich background in computer engineering and broadcast engineering. Tozin started his career in 1994 as a computer engineer. From 1996 to 2002, he worked as Director, Producer and Chief News Officer of Kerala Television in New York. Serving as Transmission Manager at a multi-channel broadcasting company in New York, Tosin leads the seamless transmission of content across multiple channels. He worked as a transmission engineer at ABC News and later as a broadcast engineer at Fox News. Mr. Tosin Abraham is a person who always strives to push the boundaries of technology and storytelling, excel in every role he undertakes and come up with innovative ideas.

Patricia Umashankar is a freelance journalist with six years of experience as a Personal Assistant to the Chief Reporter of a leading American newspaper. Currently working as a freelancer for a radio station, Patricia is passionate about presenting a wide variety of topics with depth, accuracy and insights. Organizational skills and attention to detail have enabled Patricia Umakar to easily establish herself in this fast-paced media world. Patricia Umashakar’s role in engaging audiences with accurate and lively reporting and making meaningful contributions to the media sector is no small feat.

IAPC Dallas Chapter Advisory Board Member Prof. Joy Pallatumath also served as the Vice President of this organization during 2015-2019. He is the editor and co-author of 2 academic books, Zoology for Pre-Degree Students and Animal Diversity for Degree Students published by Zoological Society of Kerala. He was co-editor (1990-98) of BULBUL, an environmental bi-monthly published jointly by Ecofraternity and Kerala Center for Christian Higher Education. He also served on the Editorial Board of Tree India Journal jointly published by The Land Use Board Trivandrum, Friends of Trees Kottayam and Ecofraternity. He has published articles in newspapers and magazines.

Prof. Pravasi Shrestha Malayalam language course for Malayali children in Texas and other places. Joy Pallatummath continued her social volunteerism in America. In 2019, he compiled, authored and published 2 volumes of Pravasi Shrestha Malayalam books dedicated to Pravasi Malayalam children worldwide. He is a member of the Pastoral Council of the Syro Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago and a member of the Canaanite Catholic Association of North America (KCCNA) and the Kerala Association of Dallas. Currently serving as the President of Pravasi Malayali Federation (PMF) North America Region.

Nisha Jude is a social media influencer who discusses many topics among North American Malayalis. Mrs. Nisha Judd is a person who boldly shares and responds to socially relevant issues through her social media platform. From 2020-2022, Kairali TV was associated with America. Nisha was reporting from America for Doordarshan Kerala during the covid period. Nisha works in the health sector and lives in New York with her family.

Mr. James Chacko, a permanent resident of Texas, is a well-known personality in the socio-political arena. Has published short stories and several articles. He is a writer for leading American media such as Jai Hind News and E Malayalee. He has served in various positions in leading American organizations such as Michigan Literary Association, Oruma, LANA, Malayalee Association of Greater Houston and Rotary Club. He is currently the General Secretary of Riverstone Malayali Association.

Mr. Thrissur Jacob is a personality who has been present in the media field for more than a decade and a half as a television producer, reporter and news editor. He is noted as a presenter, writer, debater, political analyst, crisis management expert and counselor. Jahhind Newsl, the most popular newspaper among North American Malayalis, has been operating for more than fifteen years. Thrissur Jacob, who maintains distinct views on musical taste and artistic moral values, is a person who puts forward the idea that a society should be formed based on practical human values beyond the superficialities.

Jomon Joy, who works as a freelancer, is a columnist in leading Malayalam media in America.

Milly Philip, President of the Philadelphia IAPC Chapter, serves as the World Malayali Council Women’s Forum Americas Region General Secretary and the Malayali Association of Greater Philadelphia’s Women’s Forum Chairperson. Millie has held many positions including MAP (Malay Association of Greater Philadelphia) Women’s Forum Chairperson, WMC PA Province Women’s Forum Chairperson. He is also currently the program coordinator for the Orthodox Sunday School. Millie Phillippe has literally dedicated her life to justice and charity. In 1995 he was the MG University Youth Festival Coordinator. She has worked as an anchor and reporter for Asianet, Manorama News, Doordarshan and Global Reporter. Currently working as a Learning Support Assistant, Millie lives in Pennsylvania.

Noble Augustine is a dedicated English teacher by profession with a passion for the field of education and linguistics. Noble Mathew is the Editorial Director at Samiksha, a Canadian multicultural family magazine. Mr. Noble has been instrumental in shaping the diverse content of Samiksha. His multifaceted roles reflect his unwavering dedication to education, social service and cultural enrichment. In addition to teaching, the Knights of Columbus serve as district deputies in Alberta and the Northwest Territories. She is a member of the Parish Council of Saint Mother Teresa Syro Malabar Church in Calgary.

Mr. Gigi Kurian is the chairman of several organizations in America. Mr. Gigi Kuryan, director of Kerala News Online, has a strong presence among the American Malayalees. Sri Gigi Kurien is also a well-known composer.

Rijesh Peter started his career as a creative graphic professional in New Delhi. He currently serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the IAPC Chronicle, an e-magazine published from Calgary for the Indo-American Press Club. He is the editor of Souvenir published by St. Mother Teresa Syro Malabar Catholic Church, Calgary, Canada. He is also an active participant in programs organized by various associations in Calgary, Canada.

Indian American Community Reflects the Sentiments of a Divided Nation, Responding to Trump Conviction

June 2, 2024June 5, 2024 Ajay GhoshEditorial/Opinion 0

According to The YouGov survey, conducted immediately after former President Donald Trump was convicted in all 34 counts in the New York hush money trial, 50 percent of Americans agreed with the jury on the members’ decision to convict the former president. In the same survey, about 19 percent said they were “not sure” if they agreed with the decision and about 30 percent said they didn’t agree.

Trump became the first former U.S. president to be a convicted felon Thursday, May 30, 2024 after a jury found him guilty on all counts of falsifying business records in connection with hush money payments his then-fixer, Michael Cohen, made to porn actor Stormy Daniels, ahead of the 2016 election.

Shortly following the jury reading the verdict, Trump railed against the trial outside the courtroom. “This was a rigged, disgraceful trial. The real verdict is going to be Nov. 5 by the people, and they know what happened here, and everybody knows what happened here,” Trump said. “This is a scam,” he said of the case brought by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office led by Alvin Bragg, overseen by Judge Juan Merchan.
President Joe Biden criticized Trump over his language on the trial’s fairness. “It’s reckless, it’s dangerous, it’s irresponsible for anyone to say this was rigged just because they don’t like the verdict,” the president said. “Our justice system should be respected, and we should never allow anyone to tear it down; it’s as simple as that,” he added.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said it was a “shameful day in American history” and the charges were “purely political.” Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance said the verdict was a “disgrace to the judicial system.” And Louisiana Rep. Steve Scalise, the No. 2 House Republican, said that the decision was “a defeat for Americans who believe in the critical legal tenet that justice is blind.”

Judith Browne Dianis, executive director of the Advancement Project Action Fund civil rights group, including several racial justice advocates, is using the historic moment to remind the hush money trial was just part of a broader narrative around electoral justice. Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP called the verdict against Trump “a monumental step toward justice for the American people.” Johnson, who leads the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, said Trump’s criminal conviction ought to disqualify him from the Oval Office.

While the nation has reacted differently to the verdict, the Indian American community has reflected its views by one’s political ideology. Indian American community that overwhelmingly votes for Democrats—whose prominence in American public life is relatively new, is now fielding multiple political candidates on the national stage, in addition to having elected several lawmakers at the national, state, and local levels.

The rapid rise of Indian Americans is one of the most startling domestic events in 21st-century America and one of the great success stories of liberal multiculturalism. Indian Americans are now the most economically successful ethnic group in America. The community’s views have evolved, with some Indian Americans leaving the Democratic fold, and embracing the conservative Republican Party.

While some have expressed overwhelming support for the verdict, others see this as an abuse of power by the Democrats to deny Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee the White House.

“No one is above the law. It was good that the Manhattan DA and his team did a great job in convincing the jury that former President Trump is guilty of all charges, said Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO International. “When we have a constitution and rule of law in this country, everyone has to follow. The courts have to hear the grievances of the society at large, and in this case through DA, and punish those who break the laws. That is the way democratic institutions work. If Trump feels that this is not a correct verdict, he can still appeal.”

However, Nithin George Eapen, thinks the verdict is politically motivated. “In my opinion, this verdict against Trump is nothing more than a political circus orchestrated by the liberal elites of the Democratic Party in New York, says Eapen, an Entrepreneur and Investor, well known for his expertise and eloquence as a Three-time TEDx Speaker. “This case highlights the deep divisions and contentious nature of American politics and justice. The verdict by a majority liberal jury symbolizes the erosion of American values, edging the nation closer to becoming a Banana Republic.”

Eapen says, these individuals, once beneficiaries of Trump’s donations, now seek to undermine him because they perceive him as a threat to their political dominance. They are determined to prevent someone they consider beneath their social class from gaining power again. This move by the political elite is an attempt to protect their own interests by using the power of the legal process in their control to damage Trump’s influence before the November election, where they have a vulnerable candidate.

Eapen is of the belief that “Nothing will happen to Trump as he will appeal and most likely win also and that process will take time. This will energize his base and gain sympathies for a man being targeted by the leviathan. In the meanwhile now he can get back on the campaign trail and raise money. The case was able to keep him off the campaign trail and give edge to their the senile lethargic vulnerable candidate. In a constitutional republic, targeting political opponents when in power can backfire, as those opponents may one day control the same state machinery of police and courts. This sets a dangerous precedent though potentially leading to endless taxpayer money being wasted on frivolous cases in the future by every set of unforgiving political elite.”

Rajeshwar Prasad, founder and chairman of The National Indo-American Association for Senior Citizens (NIAASC) summed it up this way: “Today’s verdict against Trump shows that nobody is above the LAW. Guilty on all 34 criminal counts. A very sad chapter in the political history of the. United States.”

Dr. Mathew Joys, a well-known writer and past BOD Secretary of the Indo-American Press Club takes us back to the past while relating to the present case. “34 COUNT GUILTY! There are instances of Former Presidents getting into hush money cases and sex scandals, and it is not a hot story for Americans. The sexual misconduct scandals surrounding then-President Bill Clinton with Monica Lewinsky or Paula Jones and past President Donald Trump with Stormy Daniels both might look similar— two former presidents paying money to women with whom they had sexual relations.”

According to Dr. Joys, “The most significant and crucial difference is that Clinton belongs to the Democrats, the ruling party, whereas Trump is a Republican. Clinton mutually reached an out-of-court settlement. In contrast, Trump privately arranged his payments to keep Daniels from speaking publicly in the first place. If so, the verdicts could have been similar, too. It seems the Court is showing some mercy by allowing Trump to remain in the current Presidential Election campaigns.

Dr. Joys points to Trump’s statement after the verdict: “I’m a very innocent man,” Trump told reporters, vowing that the “real verdict” would come from voters on election day. He branded the trial “rigged” and a “disgrace.”

Vinay Mahajan, an entrepreneur and the President & CEO of NAM Info Inc., agrees. “The US legal system works, even an ex-President is not above the law. The Jury has found President Trump guilty. The justice will take its own course, and there will be an appeal at the higher courts. We should not rush our judgments. Let us wait for the highest court of the country to decide. The final decision will be made in the People’s Court in November.”

While the nation is still trying to accept the new reality that a former President of the nation is a convicted felon, the verdict and its impact can be very long-lasting. One cannot agree less with POLITICO, which wrote recently: “On the one hand, it is a powerful demonstration that in this country even a former head of state can be indicted and convicted by a group of his peers. On the other hand, the fact that one of the two men likely to be president next year is now a convicted felon sets up the possibility that those very same judicial institutions that guarantee the rule of law will come under the most ferocious political attack in our history.”

India’s Role in Rebuilding and Revival of Post-War Middle East

December 10, 2023December 12, 2023 Amb. Pradeep Kapur & Dr. Joseph M. ChalilOpinion, World 0

The recent release of a number of Israeli and Palestinian hostages and the temporary week long truce, which ended on December 1^st should have been an occasion for the global community to reflect on how we could try to strive for not just a cease-fire but for long-lasting peace and economic development in the region.

While on the one hand, Israel has achieved significant economic development despite being surrounded by Islamic countries, on the other hand, Gaza remains backward and dependent primarily on Israel for even its basic needs of water, electricity, fuel, and employment for quite a few of its residents.

The attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 demonstrated to the world the brutality and the barbarism of the terrorists. The reprisals by Israel have resulted in a lot of destruction, death, and misery for the people of Gaza in the West Bank. There is a much greater sense of insecurity for both the Israelis and the Palestinians.

This has also led to a very significant surge in anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim hate crimes not only in the region but in the US, Europe, and other countries.

Is the world destined to continue down the spiral of more wars, hatred, death, and destruction? Or is there an alternative vision or path possible?

Brief background

A lot has already been written and discussed about the conflict’s historical evolution and origins. The Israel-Palestine issue has persisted for decades and has resulted in considerable human suffering. Resolving the plight of the Palestinians and Israelis is of utmost importance for regional peace. Focusing on economic empowerment, employment opportunities, and education for the Palestinians could perhaps serve as a powerful tool to counter the allure of extremist ideologies and promote peace. The acceptance by the Islamic countries of the right of Israel to exist as a free country is also an essential requirement.

The dust of war eventually settles, but its scars are often long-lasting, especially in regions plagued by protracted conflicts like the Middle East. Yet, as daunting as the task of rebuilding might seem, the post-war era can serve as an inflection point, an opportunity to sow seeds of lasting peace and prosperity.

War robs individuals, particularly youth, of their aspirations, thrusting them into a vortex of despair and, often, extremist ideologies. So, the question is, how can we pivot from devastation to a renaissance in the post-war Middle East?

How can we aspire for a prosperous Palestinian and Israeli population living in peace and harmony, reaping the benefits of regional economic cooperation, and providing a model for conflict resolution worldwide?

Economic Integration: The Power of Unity

The prospect of the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEEC) need not be seen only as an economic initiative but also as a gesture for peace in a conflict-prone region. By linking Bharat to Europe via the Middle East, we’re not merely talking about trade and investment; we’re fostering an environment where economies are interdependent, thus making conflict detrimental to all.

The India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEEC) can possibly bring significant investments and trade opportunities for Palestinians and others in the region. Developing Special Economic Zones (SEZ) within Palestine in collaboration with Israel and other countries involved in IMEEEC would focus on manufacturing, technology, and services, drawing investment from nations. This would be a win-win situation, as the corridor will bolster the economies of all participant countries.

Imagine the ripple effects of infrastructure projects intertwining Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel into this corridor. These aren’t just roads, ports, and rails but lifelines of hope, conduits of opportunity.

Investing in Youth and Women: The Beacon of Hope

Youth and women are the torchbearers of our future. However, radical voices can seductively intercept a future shadowed by unemployment. By aligning with nations like Bharat, known for its prowess in the IT sector, we can equip the youth and women with sought-after skills. The twofold vision is to reduce unemployment and nurture ambassadors of peace, who have far more to lose in times of conflict. Bharat has already been extending phenomenal support under the ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) Program to the citizens of many of these countries for many decades now. Bharat, therefore, has the experience and the expertise in this regard.

Moreover, let’s incentivize peace. If companies from the IMEEEC region employ Palestinian youths, they should benefit from tax breaks and other incentives.

Skill Development: Collaborate with international agencies to establish vocational training centers. Partner with countries like India, which has vast experience in IT and service sectors, to train youth in these domains.
Job Fairs and Employment Drives: Regularly organize job fairs featuring companies from Israel, Saudi Arabia, and other Middle Eastern countries to promote employment among Palestinian youths.
Incentives for Employers: Provide tax breaks and financial incentives to companies from the IMEEEC region that employ a significant percentage of Palestinians.

Education: The Pillar of Progress

Schools must become the sanctuaries of hope and enlightenment in our quest for lasting peace. Through partnerships with global universities, we can elevate academic standards and instill values of coexistence and unity. When children are taught stories of camaraderie, not conflict, they’ll pen a different, peaceful chapter for the region.

Educational Exchange Programs: Collaborate with universities in Israel, India, Europe, and the Middle East to offer scholarships for Palestinian students.
Upgraded Curriculum: Ensure that the curriculum in Palestinian schools is in line with international standards. Focus on teaching critical thinking, STEM, peace education, and coexistence.
Teacher Training Programs: Collaborate with international educational organizations to train teachers, ensuring high academic standards.

Promoting Peace, Countering Terrorism, and Anti-Semitism:

Bharat has always condemned terrorism in the strongest terms and has shown zero tolerance for terrorism in any shape or form. Promoting peace, countering terrorism, and addressing anti-Semitism requires a multi-pronged approach, encompassing education, dialogue, policy reform, and community engagement.

Media and Education: Promote peace, unity, and coexistence narratives in Palestinian media and educational content. Counter any narratives of hatred and division. Incorporate lessons on the Holocaust, the history of Jews, and the contributions of diverse groups to human civilization to foster understanding and dispel myths.
Youth Engagement: Establish peace clubs in schools and universities that organize events promoting peace and understanding. Promote exchange programs where individuals can immerse themselves in different cultures and religions to foster understanding.
Interfaith Dialogues: Encourage interfaith dialogues within Palestine and between Palestinians and Israelis to foster understanding and unity. Set up interfaith discussions where religious leaders can address common misconceptions about their beliefs and highlight similarities.
Hate Crime Legislation: Strengthen laws that penalize hate crimes, ensuring they are adequately enforced.
Counter-radicalization Programs: Develop programs explicitly targeting individuals at risk of radicalization, offering them support, education, and alternative perspectives.

Ambassador Pradeep Kapur is an acknowledged “luminary diplomat,” with a distinguished career working with leaders and policymakers in different continents of the world: Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and South America. He was the author and editor of many books. Kapur was Ambassador of India to Chile and Cambodia and Secretary at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs before joining as an academic in reputed universities in the USA and India. A graduate of the globally acclaimed Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT-D), he is Executive Director of Smart Village Development Fund (SVDF); International Economic Strategic Advisor, Intellect Design Arena; and Chairman, Advisory Council, DiplomacyIndia.com. His healthcare contributions include setting up of BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Eastern Nepal, which is acclaimed as an exemplary bilateral India Nepal initiative.

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, Chief Medical Officer at Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc., is a renowned physician executive with international recognition for his extensive contributions to healthcare innovation and research. Currently pursuing an LLM in Medical Law and Ethics at the University of Edinburgh Law School, he holds influential roles as Chairman of the Complex Health Systems Advisory Board and Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University, Florida. Dr. Chalil, a U.S. Navy Medical Corps veteran, also serves as Chief Strategic Advisor for the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. His impactful book, “Beyond the Covid-19 Pandemic,” reflects his commitment to transforming global healthcare systems. A respected figure in healthcare and media, Dr. Chalil is known for his leadership in healthcare administration, balanced media representation, and insightful discussions on Indian TV news channels, showcasing his expertise in areas such as US-India relations, geopolitical issues, and public policy.

The Abraham Accords 2.0: A New Dawn in Middle Eastern Diplomacy

The Middle East, often perceived as a complex web of animosities and alliances, witnessed a historical turn with the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020. These agreements, brokered with the significant involvement of the United States, marked a paradigm shift in the diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab nations.

Named after the patriarch Abraham, a revered figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the Abraham Accords are a series of normalization agreements between Israel and various Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco.

Before 2020, only two Arab nations—Egypt (1979) and Jordan (1994)—had established full diplomatic relations with Israel. The Abraham Accords, therefore, represent a significant expansion of Israel’s formal recognition within the Arab world.

The Accords entail the establishment of full diplomatic ties, including the opening of embassies, direct flights, trade deals, and broader cooperation in sectors such as technology, energy, and medicine.

The stymied Israel-Saudi Arabia Peace Accord needs to be restarted. This isn’t just about peace agreements; it’s a cultural and economic confluence. We’re not just linking economies; we’re linking destinies. Mutual investments and cultural exchanges between nations have historically proven to be robust peacekeepers.

MBS and Biden with Modi — Picture: PMO India

India/Bharat: A Potential Peace Broker in the Middle East

India’s unique positioning in global politics and its historical ties and soft power make it a potential mediator in the volatile Middle East, particularly between Arabs and Israelis. Bharat has managed to maintain cordial relations with both Arab nations and Israel. Historically, Bharat has supported the Palestinian cause, while in recent decades, it has fostered robust ties with Israel, particularly in the defense, agriculture, and technology sectors. This dual affinity ensures that India is seen as a neutral player, which is essential for effective mediation.

The significant Indian diaspora in the Middle East, especially in the Gulf countries, strengthens Bharat’s cultural and economic ties with the region. This diaspora contributes to their resident countries’ economies and acts as a bridge between their homeland and the Middle East. Their presence can be leveraged as they symbolize the mutual respect and shared values between Bharat and the Middle East.

Every brick we lay in the post-war Middle East can be a stepping stone towards an enduring peace or another block in an endless maze of conflicts. By integrating our economies, investing in the youth and women, and reimagining education, we don’t just rebuild post-war Palestine and ensure the future security of Israel; we revive hope, unity, and a promise of a brighter, peaceful tomorrow.

A prosperous and peaceful Palestinian society living in peace with Israel can be realized through a combination of regional cooperation, economic initiatives, and education. A focus on these areas will provide Palestinian youth with hope and purpose, making the ideologies of hate and extremism less attractive. Bharat has emerged as an essential global player, as was apparent during the G20 Summit and the Voice of Global South Summit recently in Bharat. Due to the high stakes for all countries and its greater acceptance as an essential global entity, Bharat can endeavor to line up the support of the USA, Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and other like-minded countries in these efforts. With the cooperation of regional powers and the international community, a brighter future for Palestine, Israel, and the entire region is within reach.

Given its deep-rooted connections, neutrality, and the respect it commands in the Middle East, Bharat can play a pivotal role in fostering peace in the region. While the challenges in the Middle East are complex, Bharat’s involvement can provide a fresh perspective and a neutral ground for dialogue. As the world’s largest democracy, Bharat can be a beacon of hope for a peaceful Middle East.

Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix- Countdown Starts!

November 18, 2023 Mathew Joys, Las VegasSports 0

The wait is almost over after so many months of wondering what it will look like to see the world’s best racing cars here on the busy Las Vegas Strip.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is a planned Formula One Grand Prix due to form part of the 2023 Formula One World Championship, with the event taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the United States, on a temporary street circuit including the Las Vegas Strip.

It seems to be a big, impossible challenge, revamping one of the most well-known streets in the world the Las Vegas Strip, into a racing circuit. But the inaugural Formula 1 Heineken Silver Vegas Grand Prix, set for Nov.16 to 18th, is hustling to do just that in a $560 million civil-planning and engineering feat underway before the track goes hot within a few hours.

The F1 World Championships season consists of a series of races, known as the Grand Prix, held usually on purpose-built-in circuits and, in a few cases, on closed city streets.But it is going live in the busy streets of Las Vegas, with enough modifications and protections erected in the brightly lighted streets inside the city itself.

Have you ever heard names like Michele Alboreto, John Watson, Eddie Cheever, Alain Prost, Keke Rosberg, Derek Daly, Marc Surer, Andrea de Cesaris, Niki Lauda, Derek Warwick, Elio de Angelis, Mario Andretti; they are all legends in the grand prix car racing challenges.

Of course, you might have heard of Lewis Hamilton, who holds the record for the most race wins in Formula One history, with 103 wins to date. Michael Schumacher, the previous record holder, is second with 91 wins, and Sebastian Vettelis, third with 53 victories.

You might wonder about the prize money for the winner of the F1 race.To put this in perspective, Mercedes’ win as ‘constructors’ champion in 2020 saw them take home $135 million, while Aston Martin – known as Racing Point at the time – took home $60 million for finishing last, which, as you can see was less than half of Mercedes’ winnings.

F1 is returning to Las Vegas for the first time since the 1982 Caesars Palace Grand Prix, with an all-new circuit twisting through some of the city’s most famous landmarks set to provide thrilling scenes under the lights.

The new Las Vegas Grand Prix has strong support from the state and local government and will be held at night on a course awash in neon lights and before a crowd of up to 100,000 each day of the weekend. Pook estimates that 20,000 to 25,000 people attended the inaugural Caesars Palace Grand Prix for comparison’s sake.

Tickets were priced at roughly $2,000 a year ago for the Las Vegas race. Prices for practice on Thursday and qualifying races on Friday have also dropped dramatically. The current price dropped about 50% from $385 to $180 for Thursday and on Friday.

Vegas track has 17 corners, is one of the three longest in Formula One, and has one of the lengthiest straights: nearly 1.2 miles along Las Vegas Boulevard, aka the Strip. Drivers are expected to reach a top speed of 212 mph, running around in 50 laps. But those are just specs. What makes it unique is the location, The Las Vegas Strip.

The CEO of F1’s parent company issued a public apology to Las Vegas for the many challenges its residents have tolerated and endured on the road to bringing the Las Vegas Grand Prix to the city by this weekend. There will be 105,000 people, so the sheer scale of it, even for Las Vegas, will be the most significant event Las Vegas will have, said Greg Maffei.

And that is not just the race crowd itself, as thousands are expected to visit Las Vegas next week to be a part of the race experience, even if they don’t have tickets to the event.

Just after the event, these roads will have to be repainted for normal traffic patterns.Thousands of temporary lights will have to be dismantled. A three-story huge grandstand across from the Bellagio fountain will be dismantled as well.

(Dr. Mathew Joys, is an accredited journalist and columnist contributing to English and Malayalam media. He is the GIC Global Media Chair and Director of Indo American Press Club.)

The Kerala Center Honors 8 Distinguished NRIs At Annual Gala

October 31, 2023November 1, 2023 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Profile 0

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 &amp; 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 – 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.

Ajay Ghosh Honored With Excellence In Media & Journalism Award

October 31, 2023November 1, 2023 Ajay GhoshMedia, Media, Profile 0

Ajay Ghosh, the Chief Editor and co-publisher of The Universal News Network (www.theunn.com) was awarded with the prestigious Kerala Center Annual Award for Excellence in Journalism during the 31st Annual Awards Banquet held on October 28, 2023 at The Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center in Elmont, New York. New York State Senator Kevin Thomas presented the Award to Ajay Ghosh, during the awards ceremony that was attended by nearly 200 people from across the United States and Canda, including several elected officials, community and business leaders.

Ajay was among the eight distinguished honorees from across the United States and Canada, who were bestowed with the prestigious awards with Excellence Awards for their outstanding accomplishments in their respective fields of specialization and contributions to the larger society. Others who were honored included: 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; Lata Menon (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) – Legal Services; Jayant Kamicheril (Reading, PA) – Pravasi Malayalam Literature; and, Gopala Pillai (Dallas, Texas) – Community Service.

In his response, Ajay shared with the audience his close association with the Kerala Center since his arrival in New York 2019. While referring to the importance of the media, Ajay said, “Media serves as the link that connects people, and is the mirror that reflects the world that we call our home.” He pointed to the challenges faced by the journalists around the world. “In much of the world, press freedom is either limited or virtually nonexistent. Reporters are often thrown in jail, beaten, subdued, intimidated, or even killed for doing their jobs. All of these things are of great concern to professional journalism.” He dedicated his award to the brave journalists who are at the front lines, endangering their own lives, while reporting and speaking, standing up for truth.

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.

The Universal News Network is 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.

Prior to coming to the United States, 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.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award By Indo-American Press Club

October 18, 2023October 25, 2023 Staff ReporterProfile, Health 0

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, an influential Indian American community leader, and a veteran leader of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award during the 9th annual Gala and Awards ceremony organized by the Indo-American Press Club on Sunday, October 8th, 2023 at the Stamford Hilton, CT.

The award ceremony was part of the oth annual International Media Conference organized from October 7th to 9th, 2023 by the University, which brought together media personnel from around the world, who shared their insightful thoughts and expertise on various topics related to Media and Freedom of the Press.

In his response for being chosen for the award, Dr. Shivangi said, “I am truly honored to receive this prestigious award from IAPC award, which is a forum bringing together members of the ethnic media under one umbrella, providing education, and resources and work towards media freedom.”

A conservative lifelong member of the Republican Party, Dr. Shivangi is the founding member of the Republican Indian Council and the Republican Indian National Council. Dr. Shivangi is the National President of Indian American Forum for Political Education, one of the oldest Indian American Associations. Over the past three decades, he has lobbied for several Bills in the US Congress on behalf of India through his enormous contacts with US Senators and Congressmen.
A close friend to the Bush family, he was instrumental in lobbying for the first Diwali celebration in the White House and for President George W. Bush to make his trip to India. He had accompanied President Bill Clinton during his historic visit to India. Dr. Shivangi is Dr. Shivangi has worked enthusiastically in promoting India Civil Nuclear Treaty and recently the US India Defense Treaty that was passed in US Congress and signed by President Obama.
Dr. Shivangi has actively involved in several philanthropic activities, serving with Blind foundation of MS, Diabetic, Cancer and Heart Associations of America. Dr. Shivangi has number of philanthropic work in India including Primary & middle schools, Cultural Center, IMA Centers that he opened and helped to obtains the first ever US Congressional grant to AAPI to study Diabetes Mellitus amongst Indian Americans.
Dr. Sampat Shivangi was awarded the highest civilian honor, the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Sanman award in 2016 in Bengaluru by the Hon. President of India, Shri Pranap Mukhejee. He was awarded the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in New York in 2008. He is married to Dr. Udaya S. Shivangi, MD, and the couple are blessed with two daughters: Priya S. Shivangi, MS (NYU); Pooja S. Shivangi who is an Attorney at Law.
Others who were bestowed with Lifetime Achievement Awards during the Gala included;
• 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).
• SHAJAN SKARIAH (Excellence in Journalism). He is a promoter and editor of the online portal “Marunadan Malayali”.
• RENU ABRAHAM VARUGHESE (Excellence in Elder Care). She is an Associate Professor at the School of Health and Natural Sciences, Mercy University, NY.
• VINAY MAHAJAN, President of ITServe Alliance, and the President & CEO of NAM Info Inc, a software services firm dealing in software consulting and ongoing software development projects.

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

Indo-American Press Club’s 9th International Media Conference Held In Stamford, CT

October 11, 2023October 25, 2023 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Media 0

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 9^th annual International Media Conference organized by the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) at the Hilton Stamford Convention Center in Stamford, CT from October 7^th to 9^th, 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 1^st 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.

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.

Vinay Mahajan Honored With IAPC ‘s Lifetime Achievement Award

October 11, 2023October 25, 2023 Ajay GhoshProfile 0

Vinay Mahajan, the national President of ITServeAlliance Inc., an association of 2200 + SME US IT companies was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award during the 9^th annual Gala and Awards ceremony organized by the Indo-American Press Club on Sunday, October 8^th,2023 at the Stamford Hilton, CT.

Vinay Mahajan is the President & CEO of NAM Info Inc, a software services firm dealing in software consulting and ongoing software development projects, As the head of this multi-national company, Mahajan led the development team for approval of two patents for SAFE, a fire safety APP for high rise buildings. Current projects under development are AI application APAR and browser based universal communication. He recently acquired a company in Telecom Services space.

An Engineering Graduate and MBA from premier institutes, Mahajan is a serial entrepreneur with over 40 years of industry experience in leadership, marketing, finance, and engineering, creating and building multiple entities. Entrepreneurial expertise through 100+ Communication/IVR/Call Centers software projects across India, and Healthcare Practice Management Software in the United States.

Mr. Mahajan received the award from IAPC Chairman Mr: Kamalesh Metha. In his address, Mr. Mahajan highlighted the many noble initiatives undertaken by ITSErve since its inception in 2010. “ITServe has grown and strengthened in its mission in protecting members interest, enhancing membership benefits, empowering local employment, empowering local community through various CSR programs including STEM education, and empowering ecosystem of innovation and thus maintaining the leadership of US in Technology,” Mr. Mahajan said.

Travelling to all the 21 Chapters across the United States in 8 months after he assumed office, Mr. Mahajan was instrumental in achieving membership to newer heights with more than 700+ New members added in 2023. Two new Chapters were launched under his leadership. He strengthened STEM Education program by adding STEM Training and Internship programs and enhancing STEM scholarships program.

“IT Serve Alliance is led by highly talented individuals, phenomenally successful entrepreneurs, and Innovators who are enthusiastic about giving back to the community,” Mr. Kahajan said.

Others who were bestowed with Lifetime Achievement Awards during the Gala included;

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).
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”.
RENU ABRAHAM VARUGHESE (Excellence in Elder Care). She is an Associate Professor at the School of Health and Natural Sciences, Mercy University, NY.

Indian American Kerala Cultural And Civic Center Announces Award Winners For 2023

October 5, 2023October 11, 2023 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

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.

“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.

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.

Indo American Press Club announces Lifetime Achievement Awards.

October 5, 2023October 11, 2023 Staff ReporterMedia 0

IAPC is celebrating its Tenth Anniversary and the Ninth International Media Conference at Hilton Stamford Convention Center, Connecticut during Oct 7-9th, 2023.

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award Winners will be recognized during the gala closing event commencing at 6:00 P M on Sunday 8th, October 2023.

VINAY MAHAJAN (Entrepreneurial Excellence)

Vinay Mahajan, the current national President of ITServeAlliance Inc., an association of 2100 + SME US IT companies. Has been chosen to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indo-American Press Club.

An Engineering Graduate and MBA from premier institutes, Mahajan is a serial entrepreneur with over 40 years of industry experience in leadership, marketing, finance, and engineering, creating, and building multiple entities. Entrepreneurial expertise through 100+ communication/IVR/Call center software projects across India and Healthcare Practice Management Software in the United States.

Dr. H.R.SHAH (Media & Arts)

Padma Shri Dr. H.R. Shah, Chairman & CEO of TV Asia Group, the first Non- Resident Indian to operate and telecast a 24/7 TV Channel, TV ASIA, coast-to-coast throughout North America since 1993,

Dr. Shah immigrated to the United States on March 21, 1970. A successful businessperson and media leader, Dr. Shah has worked relentlessly and tirelessly, contributing generously of his time, energy, and resources as a pillar for the Indian American community. He has been a major philanthropic supporter and has strongly supported many worthy causes across the US and India.

For his exemplary work in the media and arts, the Indian Government bestowed him with the Padma Shri in 2017. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor.

IAPC proudly bestows Dr. H R Shah with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

MEERA GANDHI (Philanthropist)

Meera Gandhi has lived many roles in her life as a philanthropist, a mother, a businesswoman, a television show host, an author, and a spiritual yogi who believes that we are very much a part of the universal spirit. We all must live in the flow of the ether that guides and propels us through our life journey!

She is a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor (2015), Marc Anthony Maestro Cares Humanitarian Award (2016), Children Hope Humanitarian Award (2013) and many more. Meera Gandhi established The Giving Back Foundation in 2010. By supporting education, mental health, and wellness, tackling malnutrition and illness, and addressing the causes of poverty, we can empower and uplift people to be the agents of change in this process.

Dr. SAMPAT SHIVANGI (Philanthropist)

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, an influential Indian American community leader, and a veteran leader of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), has been chosen to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indo-American Press Club.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi was awarded the highest civilian honor, the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Sanman Award, in 2016 in Bengaluru by the Hon. President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He was awarded the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in New York 2008.

Dr. Shivangi, for Community Service, Medicine, and philanthropy, IAPC herewith proudly presents its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

SHAJAN SKARIAH (Excellence in Journalism)

Shajan Skariah, promoter and editor of the online portal “Marunadan Malayali” has been nominated for the Excellence in Media Award by the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC).

His courageous actions of being the mouthpiece of the public have resulted in the confiscation of his newspaper, his arrest, and his exile from the country. As part of the media world at IAPC, we consider that it is our legal and moral duty to support Shajan Skariah and his news media platforms.

Dr. RENU ABRAHAM VARUGHESE (Excellence in Elder Care)

Dr. Renu Abraham Varughese is an Associate Professor at the School of Health and Natural Sciences, Mercy University, NY. She is the founder and director of the Travancore Foundation Education and Research Center on Aging (TFERCA). She is the Recipient of the Founders Excellence Award (2022)- Association for Senior Living India (ASLI) for exemplary contributions to the senior care sector in the country.

And for her many accomplishments in Exemplary service, Visionary leadership, dedication, commitment, and innovation to promote quality care for elders and the eldercare industry in India, IAPC is proudly recognizing Dr. Renu Abraham Varughese with IAPC SATHSEVANA AWARD 2023.

IAPC was formed to unite the media groups and the Indian diaspora 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. Every year IAPC hosts similar media conferences bringing together renowned journalists and media professionals from different countries, and hosts workshops and seminars.

Vinay Mahajan To Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

September 6, 2023 Staff ReporterProfile, Media 0

Vinay Mahajan. the current national President of ITServe Alliance Inc, an association of 2100 + SME US IT companies. has been chosen to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award by The Indo-American Press Club during the 9^th annual International Media Conference in Stamford, CT on October 8^th, 2023.

Under his able leadership, ITServe has grown and strengthened in its mission in protecting members interest, enhancing membership benefits, empowering local employment, empowering local community through various CSR programs including STEM education, and empowering ecosystem of innovation and thus maintaining the leadership of US in Technology.

Travelling to all the 21 Chapters across the United States in 8 months after he assumed office, Mahajan was instrumental in achieving membership to newer heights with more than 700+ New members added in 2023. Two new Chapters were launched under his leadership. In his words, “IT Serve Alliance is led by highly talented individuals, phenomenally successful entrepreneurs, and Innovators who are enthusiastic about giving back to the community.” He strengthened STEM Education program by adding STEM Training and Internship programs and enhancing STEM scholarships program.

The Essay Writing Competition conducted by Indo American Press Club

August 14, 2023August 14, 2023 Staff ReporterEducation, Youth 0

The Indo-American Press Club invites entries to the Essay Competition organized in conjunction with the 9th International Media Conference of the IAPC.

The competition is conducted in two categories namely Junior (Ages 8 – 14) and Senior (15 – 20).

The topic for Junior Category: ( Why I like / dislike social media ) should not exceed 1000 words.

Senior Section Topic: (Press freedom in danger) Not exceeding 1200 words.

Your entries in English must be received by the email address: [email protected] before August 30, 2023. Contestants from anywhere in the world can participate.

Winners’ essays will be included in the IMC 2023 Souvenir, released during the Conference. Cash awards and certificates for the winners will be distributed at the IAPC International Media Conference from October 7 to 9 at the Hilton Stamford Hotel in Connecticut.

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, Novo Integrated Sciences’ Chief Medical Officer, Selected As Top Physician Of The Year By IAOTP

May 2, 2022April 14, 2025 Staff ReporterProfile 0

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, MBBS, MBA, FACHE, Chief Medical Officer of Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. (Novo). Global Healthcare Executive and Best-Selling Author, has been selected as Top Physician of the Year for 2022 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and innovative medical contributions.

Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: NVOS) (the “Company” or “Novo”) , pioneering a holistic approach to patient-first health and wellness through a multidisciplinary healthcare ecosystem of multiple patient and consumer touchpoints for services and product innovation, made the announcement last week

While inclusion with the International Association of Top Professionals is an honor in itself, only a few members in each discipline are chosen for this distinction. These special honorees are distinguished based on their professional accomplishments, academic achievements, leadership abilities, other affiliations, and contributions to their communities. All honorees are invited to attend the IAOTP’s annual awards gala at the end of this year for a night to honor their achievements.

Stephanie Cirami, IAOTP President, stated, “We are honored to have Dr. Chalil as part of our IAOTP family. He is brilliant at what he does, has a unique understanding of health policies, and a diverse medical background. We know he will be an amazing asset to our network of professionals.”

Dr. Chalil has over 20 years of professional experience in health policy, medical affairs, and clinical development with an emphasis on both healthcare delivery and biotechnology. Previously, Dr. Chalil has held roles of increasing responsibility at DBV Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim, Abbott Laboratories, and Hoffmann-La Roche. Dr. Chalil was the honored recipient of the AAPI Presidential Award (2015) and the Boehringer President’s Club Award for 2011, 2014, and 2015. Dr. Chalil was also recognized and honored with the 2013 Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award.

Dr. Chalil is an author of several scientific and research papers in international publications. He is also the Chairman of the Complex Health Systems Advisory Board, H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and a member of Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine Executive Leadership Council. A veteran of the U.S. Navy Medical Corps, he is board certified in healthcare management. He has been awarded a Fellowship by the American College of Healthcare Executives, an international professional society of more than 40,000 healthcare executives who lead hospitals, healthcare systems, and other healthcare organizations. Additionally, Dr. Chalil is the former Chairman of the Indo-American Press Club. He is an expert in U.S. healthcare policy and a strong advocate for patient-centered care. A strong proponent of providing healthcare access to everyone, Dr. Chalil’s new book, Beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic: Envisioning a Better World by Transforming the Future of Healthcare, is on Amazon’s Best Sellers List.

For more information on Dr. Chalil, please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drchalil/

The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) is an international boutique networking organization that handpicks the world’s finest, most prestigious top professionals from different industries. These top professionals are given an opportunity to collaborate, share their ideas, be keynote speakers, and to help influence others in their fields. This organization is not a membership that anyone can join. You must be asked by the President or be nominated by a distinguished honorary member after a brief interview.

Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. is pioneering a holistic approach to patient-first health and wellness through a multidisciplinary healthcare ecosystem of multiple patient and consumer touchpoints for services and product innovation. Novo offers an essential and differentiated solution to deliver, or intend to deliver, these services and products through the integration of medical technology, diagnostic and therapeutic solutions, and rehabilitative science.

The Company’s decentralized healthcare business model is centered on three primary pillars to best support the transformation of non-catastrophic healthcare delivery to patients and consumers.

Innovation through science combined with the integration of sophisticated, secure technology assures Novo Integrated Sciences of continued cutting-edge advancement in patient first platforms.

For more information concerning Novo Integrated Sciences, please visit www.novointegrated.com. For more information on Novo Healthnet Limited, Novo’s wholly owned subsidiary, please visit www.novohealthnet.com.

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, MBBS, MBA, FACHE is appointed as the Chief Medical Officer of Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: NVOS) and the New President of Novomerica Health Group

April 13, 2022April 14, 2025 Staff ReporterHealth, Profile 0

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil, MBBS, MBA, FACHE, Best Selling Author and Publisher of The Universal News Network, (www.theunn.com) has been appointed as the Chief Medical Officer of Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: NVOS) and the New President of Novomerica Health Group, Inc on April 5^th, 2022. In addition, Dr, Chalil will maintain his leadership of Clinical Consultants International LLC (CCI).

While announcing the appointment, Robert Mattacchione, Novo’s CEO and Board Chairman of Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. stated, “Adding CCI and the impressive CCI team of highly respected, proven leaders in the medical community, led by Dr. Chalil, is a significant milestone intended to accelerate Novo’s expansion to both the U.S. and other global markets. As the healthcare sector worldwide is facing increasingly complex demands with incredible opportunities to leverage technology and new service models, Dr. Chalil and the CCI team are the perfect partner to accelerate the growth of Novo’s decentralized healthcare delivery business model.

Dr. Chalil and his team share Novo’s forward-thinking vision and combined with CCI’s exceptional talent undoubtedly make CCI a strong addition to the Novo portfolio of companies.” Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc. is pioneering a holistic approach to patient-first health and wellness through a multidisciplinary healthcare ecosystem of services and product innovation.

Under the terms of Novo’s acquisition, CCI will be a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. CCI has an impressive international team of physician leaders, diplomats, hospital administrators, and regulatory/FDA experts.

“Working with Rob and the Novo team over the last year, I’ve witnessed firsthand Novo’s commitment to be a leader in the ongoing transformation of healthcare delivery worldwide,” said Dr. Chalil. “I cannot think of a better partnership for CCI and the CCI team and it is my honor to join the Novo team with this acquisition. I am excited to work closely with Rob and the Novo team to implement our shared vision for the path forward to improving access to high-quality healthcare services and products worldwide.”

Founded in 2006, the highly respected CCI senior strategic advisor team includes Ambassador Pradeep K. Kapur, IFS (IIT Delhi), former Indian Ambassador to several countries including Chile, Dr. Zach P. Zachariah, MD, Medical Director of Health Cardiology, and the longest-serving member of the Florida Board of Medicine, Saju George, CEO for Garden City Hospital and Prime Healthcare’s midwestern region, and other professionals with extensive healthcare and hospital management experience.

Dr.Chalil served as Chairman of Novo’s Medical Advisory Board since April ‘2021. Dr. Chalil is an author of several scientific and research papers in international publications. He is also the Chairman of the Complex Health Systems Advisory Board, H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and a member of Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine Executive Leadership Council.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy Medical Corps, he is board certified in healthcare management. He has been awarded a Fellowship by the American College of Healthcare Executives, an international professional society of more than 40,000 healthcare executives who lead hospitals, healthcare systems, and other healthcare organizations. Dr.Chalil has held roles of increasing responsibility at DBV Technologies, Boehringer Ingelheim, Abbott Laboratories, and Hoffmann-La Roche.

Additionally, Dr.Chalil is the former Chairman of the Indo-American Press Club. He is an expert in U.S. healthcare policy and a strong advocate for patient-centered care. A strong proponent of providing healthcare access to everyone, Dr. Chalil’s new book, Beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic: Envisioning a Better World by Transforming the Future of Healthcare, is on Amazon’s Best Sellers List.

IAPC ANNOUNCES NEW NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

June 3, 2020 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

President : Dr.S.S.Lal, Exec.Vice President: Annie J Koshy, General Secretary: Biju Chacko

INDO AMERICAN PRESS CLUB, Inc. (IAPC) has announced the National Executive Committee 2020. IAPC, the largest ethnic Indian American media forum, formed in 2013 to provide a common platform and to be the voice for media personnel of Indian origin, and to help shape the world to be world that is fair, just and equitable for the all today and future generations.

Dr. S.S.Lal, a world renowned Health Expert, Columnist and Guest Speaker on various Visual Media, has been selected to be the President of the National Executive Committee of Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), the largest ethnic Indian American media forum, formed to provide a common platform and to be the voice for media personnel of Indian origin, and to help shape the world that is fair, just and equitable for the all today and future generations.

Dr.Lal was a member of the Board of the Directors of IAPC during 2014- 2016. He is now the Director at the World Health Organization (WHO), in charge of the Department of Controlling contagious diseases (TB), with head quarters in Washington DC. Dr. Lal has been working for WHO in various countries,and has been instrumental in the setting up and management of its Global Fund at Geneva. He is a key member in various Advisory Councils of the WHO and often appears on TV sharing valuable thoughts on public health. Many of his scientific articles and findings have been published in various international journals. He is also a frequent columnist in various accredited Online and Print media.

Since 1993, for the first time in India Dr.Lal initiated the broadcasting of Health Shows (Pulse, Asianet) and he was the Anchor for more than 500 biweekly episodes, until the end of 2003. He has published so many Short Stories and Novels, and “Tittoni” a collection of his short stories was published by D.C.Books.

With his passion, dedication and academic achievements such as MBBS, MPH, MBA and Ph D, Dr. Lal makes his commitment towards betterment of health conditions all over the world with his responsible assignments at World Health Organization. Dr. Lal originally hails from Trivandrum, Kerala, and is an extensive traveler all over the world now lives at Vienna, Virginia along with his wife Dr. Sandhya and two sons.

Dr. Lal will serve as the President of IPAC leading the organization to newer heights.

ANNIE J KOSHY elected as the Executive Vice President joins the leadership team with her motto “Giving voice to the voiceless through thought leadership, photography, media and the arts.”

Award-winning media professional, Annie Koshy, is a recognized multi-talented media and events personality, trained elite speaker and emcee. Her work is highly applauded, as she has made a lasting impression within the arts, media, and events arena. Annie has gained a reputation for bridging opportunities for those in a variety of industries. Through her disciplined work ethic in multiple streams, aptitude for branding and skill in business networking, Annie is a role model to many within the community. As a fine example of a multi-disciplinary woman leader in the community, Annie’s story is inspirational and unique to young entrepreneurs and women. Her kernels of truth and words of wisdom are steeped in experience and cultural diversity.

The newly appointed Vice Presidents are C.G. Daniel, James Kureekattil, Prakash Joseph and Sunil Manjanikkara. C.G. Daniel is a well known writer and an amateur photographer with a large following especially on social media. He is an environmentalist and his photos are published in the local newspapers. He is the President and CEO of the Deepalaya Foundation Inc. He is focusing to transform the lives of hundreds of thousands of children living in low-income communities in Delhi and nearby states of North India by providing literacy and equality of education though Deepalaya Delhi. Before immigrating to the U.S., he was a successful entrepreneur in Delhi for many years. He has traveled several countries related to his business activities. Even while holding a full time job at Houston airport, he has been playing a major role in social and cultural activities in Houston. Daniel was the former president of the IAPC Houston chapter and the editorial Chairman of the International Media Conference 2019 Souvenir.

James Kureekkattil is a renowned Indo American free thinker, writer and columnist. He is also a reporter to Global Reporter TV channel. He has produced many news reports and features for the Reporter TV channel. His short stories, poems and articles has been published in several publications. His book “Malluklabbile Sadaachaaratharkkangal (Moral Argument of Mallu Club)” which was published last year is one of the widely discussed books among the Malayalee communities in the U.S. He was the Editor if Dhwani magazine published from Detroit. He is also actively involved in the writers forum, LANA.

Prakash Joseph was the Advisory board member of the IAPC Atlanta chapter. He is also a member of the Greater Atlanta Malayalee Association (GAMA). In 2016 he was elected as GAMA President and since 2017 he is serving as the member of the Board of Trustee. Recently he was elected as the Atlanta region president of World Malayalee Council.

Sunil Manjanikkara is working as a Program-in-Chief with the Global Reporter channel. He was the Program Director for JaiHind TV USA. He is a professional in photography and videography and exhibited his expertise through several TV programms.. He was the Public Relations Officer for the American Malankara Diocese and he played a major role to establish the diocese’s audio video media department. He was instrumental in the historic leap of telecasting of 250 episodes of a Realty Show organized by JaiHind TV, where participants from all American states could present their versatile talents for the first time. For Malankara TV, Sunil reported the Induction and Coronation events of H.H.Ignatius Aprem II, Patriarch of Global Syrian Orthodox Churches from Syria.

The elected General Secretary, Biju Chacko is a well known media person of North America. He is the member of the Director Board of Jai Hind News which is publishing from U.S. and Canada. He is actively involved with many organisations including NORKA. He was the front runner of New York State Senator Kevin Thomas’s election campaign and now actively involved in the community services of Sen. Kevin Thomas.

The elected Secretaries are Andrews Jacob, Raj Dhingra, Annie Anuvelil and Dr. Neethu Thomas.

Andrew Jacob is the reporter of Global Reporter channel. He was the former secretary of IAPC Houston chapter. He is a good singer in Malayalam and Hindi especially ghazal songs. He is the Treasurer of Malayalee Association of Houston, President of Houston Kottayam Press Club, Cultural Forumn Chairman of World Malayalee Association of American region. He is involved in the charity organization like Ragam Arts, Prathibha Arts etc.

Raj Dhingra is the publisher of New York based Indian Republic News paper. He is also members of several Indo-American community organizations.

Annie Anuvelil is a freelance journalist based at Atlanta. She has a post graduate diploma from Manorama School of Communication (MASCO). Before immigrating to the U.S. she worked with the New Indian Express and R R Donelly publishing department. She played a major role to start the monthly news bulletin, “Nattu Vishesham”, publishing by the Atlanta Metro Malayalee Association (AMMA). Currently she is the news editor of this monthly magazine. She is also actively involved in the community activities.

Dr. Neethu Thomas is working as Senior Reporter at Global Reporter TV. Many of her daily reports to Global TV Channel under ‘Global News Hour’ have claimed popular attention. She is also working as Surgical Tech in Broadlawns Hospital Des Moines ,Iowa.

The newly electedTreasurer Reji Philip is the reporter of Global Reporter channel and a popular media professional also. He has a Post Graduate degree in journalism. He is engaged in several visual online media and an expert in creative digital department .He is based at Philadelphia.

Advocate Innocent Ulahannan is elected as the Jt.Treasurer. He is the Vice president (operations) of Asian Era Magazine. He has 25 years of experiance as a Revenue Manager in New York. He was the former president of Hudson Valley Malayalee Association and Chairman of the Board of Trustee. He served as American Political Action Council President and Secretary of FOKANA, New York region. He was the Treasurer of the Indian American Lawyers Forum. As a certified Notary, he has been active in the community engaging in tax affairs for the last 22 years. He has decorated many official positions in various organizations and a recipient of various awards to his honor.

Baiju Pakalomattom and Rupsi Narula were elected as National Co ordinators. Baiju Pakalomattom was the former IAPC Secretary. He is the regional director and columnist of JaiHind News, Niagara region. His several articles have been published in many of the publications. He was one of the founder members of the Niagara Malayalee Samajam and now serving as the president. During 2007 he joined Knight of Columbus, the global Catholic organization and elevated to fourth degree as Sir Knight for his dedications. In 2016 he was elected as the regional Vice President of FOKANA Canada region.

Roopsi Narula has been prominent with her presence in the digital marketing sector. Roopsi who has attained MBA from USA, is also holding Masters in Sociology. She has been active for the last ten years with her print and digital chain of telecasting in the ZeeTV Americas, TV Asia, Oxford University Press, and The South Asian Times.

The new elected Public Relations Officers (PRO) are O.K. Thyagarajan, Teresa Tom and Shibi Roy. Originally from Kannur, O.K. Thyagarajan is based at Vancouver, Canada. He is the editorial board member of Jai Hind News. He studied law and journalism and worked with the Kairali TV channel also. He has published a collection of short stories.

Shiby Roy is theOwner/CEO and Lead RJ of Mallu CafeMalayalam Radio U.S.A available @99.5 FM. Her radio station is based at Houston but streaming is available through out the world. She is also a director board member of the Greater Houston malayalee Association. This year she was elected as the womens representative of the Malayalee Association.

Teresa Tom is a well known as a Writer and Columnist, publishing many poems and articles in Newspapers, magazines. She has published two collections of her poetries and two collections of her essays of social importance and women empowerment. She was the Chairperson of the Literary Seminar held by the WMC. Teresa is an active member holding different positions of IAPC since its inception.

IAPC was formed with the lofty goal of realizing a long-felt need to bring together the media groups and the Indian American media persons across the North American continent under one umbrella to work together and support one another, and thus giving them a powerful voice in the media world and the larger society. IAPC members are dedicated to fulfill the vision of enhancing their own journalistic skills while striving to help fellow journalists and future generations to work towards the common cause of enhancing the well being and efficiency of all peoples of the world. For more information, please visit: https://indoamericanpressclub.com

Report Dr. Mathew Joys, Las Vegas

CHINA’S HIDDEN AGENDA: WINNING OPPORTUNITY FOR INDIA

May 7, 2020 Staff ReporterIndia, Politics 0

Globally, we are running the risk of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, uncontrolled.

President Trump during a recent coronavirus task force briefing said, “If it was a mistake, a mistake is a mistake. But if they were knowingly responsible, yeah, I mean, then sure there should be consequences.” This strong and vehement announcement is viewed by the international defense experts as “the threat by the US President against China is not just an emotional expression, repercussions may follow.”

Meanwhile Karma News web channel has warned in detail that the world is going to turn topsy-turvy due to the once-in-a-century Covid-19 pandemic which has engulfed the whole human race. As per their narrative in the social media, the US and Allies may wage a shadow economic war against China.

According to Fox News, China lied from the very beginning of this virus, covering up the origins and severity. They manipulated the WHO to spread misinformation about the human-to-human transmissions. Hence Rep. Andy Barr of Kentucky is proceeding to pass a resolution to establish a bipartisan select committee to probe China’s conduct and hold it accountable.

Once the Coronavirus is contained, China can expect the reward for their malicious acts if proven. Experts from world over validate this warning. European countries are also questioning China for a clear-cut answer on how the virus started spreading from Wuhan. Australia is also demanding an answer blaming China for the deaths in their country due to COVID-19. Only Russia is keeping quiet.

It seems, if needed, superpowers will dare to stand shoulder to shoulder with an unprecedented level of cooperation to teach a lesson to China, their common enemy for erasing so many human lives from the earth already. Meanwhile, many nations angrily rejected China’s preliminary explanation that the coronavirus might have originated and spread through bats. US had its initial investigations exposing the fact that there are no such varieties of bats in or around Wuhan province. Recently, a report from China confirmed that a lady working in Wuhan Institute of Virology got infected and then infected her boyfriend. So the strong suspicion is that the world is dealing with a man-made virus. If true that this evil virus escaped from their lab, China has created a monster which may bite back, leading to the fall of the Great Wall!

Nobel Prize winner Japan’s professor of physiology Dr. Tasuku Honjo created a sensation when he claimed that coronavirus is not natural. Only an artificial virus can spread to different countries with cold or hot climate simultaneously.

Even if not true that the virus escaped from their lab, China won’t be spared, as they failed to disclose the attack of a deadly virus early enough, or not alarming the world about its dangerous transmissibility. Instead, their evil minds seem to have conspired to export it worldwide through infected patients. Hence, it appears intentional and China may face heavy bouts and punches, as tweeted by the US President; while the global death toll has crossed 240,000.

European countries like U.K., Germany, France, Italy and Spain are sharpening their arsenals. US has umpteen reasons to declare an open war with China. Australia wants China to answer for each Covid fatality in their country. They affirm that the anti-democratic policies of the Iron Curtain Communist dictatorship caused this havoc, which would not have originated from a socialist democratic system.

China still says they are in the investigating process, and the world is keenly awaiting their report. America, on the other hand, is expediting the investigation, and the report will instigate a drastic action against China.

The war if initiated against China will of a different kind never seen before, and act quicker than the epidemic itself. China will be opposed by all affected nations rallying behind the super powers. China will then be unable to export even a single pin or paper clip to any foreign country, clipping China’s wings as a superpower.

Gulf countries may stop exporting crude oil and gas to China. Chinese people will then find life horrible due to oil scarcity. Its almost 80% of economy will collapse. Chinese passport holders will be shunned everywhere.

The biological war that China seems to have waged will be retaliated by the world in the form of economic warfare. Maybe the recent exports of gloves and masks from China will be their last piece of international trade. The imposed restrictions and prohibitions the world over may shrink China to a mere skeleton of its present self. That is what the world wishes to see in the post-Corona war. We may see a new world without China. But for now this is only a projection.

Now let us look at what the changed world means for India. The immediate impact will be noticed in attempts by companies of relocating most of their manufacturing units from China to India, where the labor cost is also cheap. Countries and corporates will turn to Indian sources and resources to produce all things as per their requirements, for which they will push enough economic assistance to India with immediate effect. Yes, this is where India has the golden opportunity to emerge as the new superforce.

Only Pakistan and China will be jealous of the fast growth of Indian economy in the near future while the rest of the world entrusts their utmost faith in India. Ours is a clean history of never inducing any war against any country, nor will we cheat anyone for selfish reasons.

Will India rise to the occasion in a new world without China? For that to happen it has to demonstrate high quality fidelity in their contracts and delivering better products than China did so far? The Indian government and industrial houses need to better focus their resources to take the challenge – that is an imperative necessity to make India export oriented.

Though we have cheap labor, high intelligence and infrastructure, we have fallen short in exports in many instances. Indian exports of agricultural products like black pepper, cardamom and other spices have gone down due to adulterated supplies. Even in USA, we have heard instances poor quality garments and damaged zippers on signature products, and rusty containers imported from India.

Indian government has earlier launched the very ambitious scheme of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and ministries concerned have to initiate speedy steps to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and red-tape delays for which the country has been notorious but on the amend. Now that India is going to be the center of attraction, and if we need to emerge as the most favored nation in the world, we need to be trustworthy and high quality-conscious in every aspect of the international trade orders we are likely to get soon from many big economies.

Once exports are boosted, India’s domestic economic downturn will be mitigated instantly. The federal government and its departments concerned should gear up to motivate organizations to produce high quality products to export and earn precious foreign exchange. We need to modify the framework of export incentives in the form of duty exemptions and remission schemes to serve the interests of exporters as well as the commitments India is going to undertake. Time is coming close to see the world filled with ‘guaranteed Made in India products’.

We may need lot of imports too. The Duty Exemption Scheme helps exporters import duty-free inputs required for manufacturing export products.

Of late media is abuzz with the encouraging news that many leading mobile phone manufacturers and automobile companies have already commenced discussions with Indian officials.

The Indian government should get ready to reap the fruits of the opportunity knocking at our door that unexpectedly the world may entrust in us on the other side of the Covid pandemic. We can ‘Make India Great’ – Welcome to incredible India!

Dr Mathew Joys is Las Vegas based Kerala origin Journalist and Columnist in various media and a published author. He is currently Executive Editor of Jaihind Vartha, Associate Editor of Expressherald and MalayaliFM and Vice Chairman of Indo American Press Club

IAPC Board of Directors for 2020-21 Announced

March 29, 2020 Staff ReporterBusiness, Community, Social Media 0

INDO AMERICAN PRESS CLUB, Inc. (IAPC) has announced the Board of Directors for the year 2020-21. Dr. Joseph .M. Chalil will serve and lead IAPC, the largest ethnic Indian American media forum, formed in 2013 to provide a common platform and to be the voice for media personnel of Indian origin, and to help shape the world to be world that is fair, just and equitable for the all today and future generations.

IAPC DIRECTOR BOARD (2)Dr. Mathew Joys is the Vice Chairman and Mathewkutty Easow is the Board Secretary. Other members of the Board of Directors include: Kamlesh Mehta, Ajay Ghosh, Parveen Chopra, Dr. P.V Baiju, Thomas Mathew(Anil), Ginsmon P Zacharia, Korason Varghese, Mini Nair and Thampanoor Mohan.

Prof. Joseph M. Chalil, MD, MBA, FACHE, Cofounder and Publisher of The Universal News Network, www.theunn.com, has been selected to be the Chairman, Board of Directors of Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), for a two year term, leading the organization to newer heights. Dr. Chalil, an author of several scientific and research papers in international publications, is the Chairman of Healthcare Advisory Board and an Adjunct Professor at H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship, Nova Southeastern University in Florida and is a member of the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine (NSU MD) Executive Leadership Council, in Florida.

Dr. Chalil holds several US Patents, and is an expert in US Healthcare policy and a strong advocate for patient centered care.A recipient of the prestigious AAPI National Presidential Awards in 2015 and 2013 AAPI New York President’s Award, Dr. Chalil was recognized and honored with the 2013 Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award. After completing his studies in India, Dr. Chalil immigrated to the United States, and had his higher studies in Medicine at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Davenport University, and JJM Medical College.

Dr. Mathew Joys is a founding member of IAPC and a well- known journalist and columnist. His career began in India at the Finance department of the Indian Government and extended his abilities to be the Rotract/Rotary club Director and National General Secretary of Employees federation (NTC) in India. He is also a Creative author and authored many books including the ‘Oh My Beloved’ an interpretation of the Song of Songs in the Bible, and ‘ American Aadukal’ (the Goats of America) are the few. He is the Executive Editor for the JAIHINDVARTHA Newspaper from NY and Associate Editor for Express Herald and editorial board member for the NERKAZHCHA Weekly from Houston.

Kamlesh Mehta is a Long Island based media entrepreneur, senior Rotarian, community leader, businessman and philanthropist. Hailing from a prominent Jain family in Rajasthan, he started his diamond trading business in Bombay in 1985 before migrating to New York in 1986 to set up an expansive business of rare gemstones and diamonds. He delved into the media business in 2008, founding The South Asian Times, an award winning leading weekly newspaper for the community. Ventures of his Forsythe Media group include The Asian Era, a lifestyle magazine.

In January 2010, Mehta was appointed to the Nassau County administration to the prestigious position of Director of Business and Economic Development, where he served for over five years.

In September 2009 Mr Mehta became the Charter President of the Rotary Club of Hicksville South. He rose in the international organization to serve as Governor of RI District 7255 in the year 2015-16.

Parveen Chopra is a journalist serving the community for three decades. He is the editor of the New York based The South Asian Times weekly newspaper, and “One World Under God’ interfaith journal. With postgraduate degree in mass communication from Punjab University in Chandigarh, he has worked for India Today magazine and founded a spiritual magazine called Life Positive from New Delhi. He is a trained teacher of Transcendental Meditation and yoga.

Ajay Ghosh, the Chief Editor of Universal News Network, came to the United States to pursue his higher studies in Journalism in 1997 and graduated with a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the School of Journalism at Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI. Having a Master’s Degree in Social Work, he worked as a freelance writer on social issues for numerous publications in Delhi and had worked as the Chief Editor of The Voice Delhi.

In the United States, starting as a reporter for India Post, he worked as the New York Bureau Chief of Indian Reporter and World News and had worked as the New York Bureau Chief of India Tribune, a weekly newspaper, published from Chicago. Ajay had served as the Executive Editor of NRI Today and was the North American Bureau Chief of The Indian Express, North American Editions. Ajay serves as the Media Consultant of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). In December 2019, he was part of a nearly 200 member expedition to Antarctica, the 7th Continent on Earth.

In addition, Ajay taught Social Work Seminar and guided students at the Graduate School of Social Work, Fordham University in New York City from 2006 to 2016. He was an Adjunct Professor at Bridgeport University. At present, he works as a Psychiatric Social Worker at Yale New Haven Hospital and serves as a Social Worker at Hartford Health At Home. Ajay had served as the founder President of Indo-American Press Club in 2014. In 2015, Ajay was honored with Excellence in Reporting Award by American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin. Ajay received the Excellence Award in 2018 from NAMAM, a North American Community organization that fosters collaboration and education among members of the Indian American community.

Mathewkutty Easow is a well known Media personality and an experienced Columnist in the Indian American community. He is currently serving as the Vice-chairman for the “JaiHindVartha” USA edition. Mathewkutty is the bureau chief of the Global Reporter New York. He has written on many recognized topics to the Indian community to bring out the truth in a world of information. Prior to immigrating to USA, he had served in the Govt. of India, Central Excise & Customs Department.

Dr. P.V. Baiju comes from the profession of professors and columnists. He has brought out the many avenues of Canadian Indians’ struggles to the world in a profound way. His media work in Canada was recognized as the Organon for Canadian Indians. His regular column “akkare ikkare” in JAIHINDVARTHA detailing the issues of Indo Canadian community is well received worldwide. He works as Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at the MacCowen University, Alberta Canada.

Thomas Mathew (Anil) is a well- known photo Journalist in the USA and one of the founding members of the IAPC organization, served in the National Committee and as its National Treasurer.

Ginsmon P Zacharia is the Founding Chairman of IAPC. He is also the MD of the Global Reporter channel and contributed many relevant topics to the generation. He is the CEO and Publisher of Asian Era and Aksharam magazines. He worked at the management team for “The South Asian Times” and he was the Bureau Chief for DEEPIKA in EUROPE for 16 years, which was the GRAND entry to his journey in the media industry.

Ginsmon produced the BLOCKBUSTER Reality show on Jaihind TV while crisscrossing the nation and broadcast it in 250 episodes. This program allowed many singers to bring out their talents to the Mainstream. In 2018, he was awared with the prestigious Achievement Award in Journalism by The Kerala Center in New York.

Karson Varghese is a Columnist and Editor of Jai Hind News. He has shown his proven media skills while working as the general secretary at IAPC and P R O of the Y’s Men international . His LIVE media one on one interviews have touched many lives, streamed through “Valkkannadi” segments of the Kalavedi.

Mini Nair is a well-known media personality in India and North America. She is one of the founding members of IAPC and earlier served on the National Executive Committee. She has profound experience in digital and visual media and has worked with many recognized TV channels such as Doordarshan, India Vision, Surya TV, Asia Net, and Kairali TV. She is specialized in conducting Talk shows, Live programs, Scripting, and has anchored more than 2500 episodes during the last 25 Years. She has a Degree in Law and Diploma in Journalism from the University of Kerala. Mini was the president of the IAPC Atlanta chapter in 2019 and earlier served as its Advisory Board Member.

Thampanoor Mohan comes from the print, digital and visual media background and has served for the last 45 years in India and North America. In India He has been a leading coordinator in the publications of ‘Rural Information Bureau’ . He is a well known photographer, writer and philanthropist among Indian community. He was instrumental in telecasting Malayalam Programs for the first time from North America through Kairali TV. His strong dedication to the community is demonstrated being one of the founding organizers for KCABC and Vancouver Malayali Samajam. His contributions in establishing IAPC and its Chapters in Canada are enormous. He is the Regional Director of JaihindVartha Canadian edition, he has been the Media Coordinator for the Namasthe Canada program sponsored by the Consulate General of India, Vancouver,BC. He is the producer of “Canadian Connections”. He is now serving as the National Coordinator for Global Reporter channel.

Indo American Press Club (IAPC) is the fast growing syndicate of print, visual, online, and electronic media journalists and other media related professionals of Indian origin working in the United States, Canada, and Europe. IAPC is committed to enhance the working conditions of our journalists, exchanging ideas and offering educational and training opportunities to our members, aspiring young journalists and media professionals around the globe; and also by honoring media people for their excellence, and for bringing in positive changes through their dedicated service among the community. Today IAPC envisages its vision through collective efforts and advocacy activities through its 12 Chapters across the US and Canada, in the larger public sphere. For more information, please visit: https://indoamericanpressclub.com/

Prof. Joseph M. Chalil To Be Chairman, Board of Directors of IAPC

December 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

(New York, NY: December 17, 2019) Prof. Joseph M. Chalil, MD, MBA, FACHE, Cofounder and Publisher of The Universal News Network, www.theunn.com, has been selected to be the Chairman, Board of Directors of Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), the largest ethnic Indian American media forum, formed to provide a common platform and to be the voice for media personnel of Indian origin, and to help shape the world to be world that is fair, just and equitable for the all today and future generations.

Dr. Chalil, an author of several scientific and research papers in international publications, is the Chairman of Healthcare Advisory Board and an Adjunct Professor at H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship, Nova Southeastern University in Florida and a member of the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine (NSU MD) Executive Leadership Council, in Florida.

Prof. Joseph M. Chalil To Be Chairman, Board of Directors of IAPC

Formerly, a Physician Executive at Boehringer Ingelheim and a veteran of the U.S. Navy Medical Corps, Dr. Chalil is board certified in healthcare management, and has been awarded Fellowship by the American College of Healthcare Executives, an international professional society of more than 40,000 healthcare executives who lead hospitals, healthcare systems and other healthcare organizations.

Dr. Chalil is also the Chairman of Global Clinical Research and Trial Network of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) the second largest physician organization in the US second only to American Medical Association (AMA) and has served as a Scientific Advisor to AAPI for the past several years.

Dr. Chalil holds several US Patents, and his research includes Clinical Trial Management in Cystic Fibrosis, Food Allergy, Multiple Myeloma, and is the author of several publications. A Visiting Professor at various universities and board member of various companies, Dr. Chalil is an expert in US Healthcare policy and a strong advocate for patient centered care.

A recipient of the prestigious AAPI National Presidential Awards in 2015 and 2013 AAPI New York President’s Award, Dr. Chalil was recognized and honored with the 2013 Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award. The American Association of Cardiologists of Indian Origin (AACIO) honored Dr. Chalil for his achievements in the field of Cardiology in 2013. He was the Boehringer Ingelheim President’s Club winner for 2011 & 2014.

After completing his studies in India, Dr. Chalil immigrated to the United States, and had his higher studies in Medicine at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Davenport University, and JJM Medical College.

Dr. Chalil will serve as the Chairman of BOD, IPAC for the years 2020-2021 for a two year term, leading the organization to newer heights. IAPC was formed with the lofty goal of realizing a long-felt need to bring together the media groups and the Indian American media persons across the United States under one umbrella to work together and support one another, and thus giving them a powerful voice in the media world and the larger society. IAPC members are dedicated to fulfill the vision of enhancing their own journalistic skills while striving to help fellow journalists and future generations to work towards the common cause of enhancing the wellbeing and efficiency of all peoples of the world. For more information, please visit: https://indoamericanpressclub.com/

Ginsmon P. Zacharia Elected Chairman of Board of Trustees, India Catholic Association of America

December 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

New York: Ginsmon P. Zacharia has been unanimously elected to be the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the India Catholic Association of America, during the elections held at the Tyson Center in Floral Park, New York on December 1st, 2019.

The India Catholic Association, one of the oldest Indian organizations in the United States, is an umbrella organization that includes the Syro-Malabar, Syro-Malankara, Knanaya, and Latin Catholics Rites, representing the interests of the Catholics of Indian Origin living in the United States.

Having an active registered membership of 2,000 families, the Association has been instrumental in providing spiritual leadership to the early Christian Malayalee immigrant community in America. When the churches became more influential and as dioceses were established, the activities of the India Catholic Association had slowed down.

Over the past few years, a new generation of leadership has emerged, who recognized the need for an all-inclusive group that encompassed all sections of the Catholic Church and has intensified the activities of the Association. Ginsmon P. Zacharia, the president-elect in 2014, led that campaign for the movement, and he was subsequently elected to the Board of Trustees in 2017.

As a journalist and media entrepreneur, Ginsmon is well-known to the Indian American community in the United States. He has been active in the media industry for nearly two decades and has led various organizations.

Ginsmon is the founder of Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), the largest organization of Indian origin journalists in North America, and served as the chairman from 2014 to 2016. He is the Managing Director of Global Reporter TV, Chief Editor of Jaihind Vartha, the most popular Malayalam newspaper, and as is the publisher of Aksharam and The Asian Era. In addition, he also serves as a media consultant for the South Asian Times-the largest English newspaper for Indians, published from New York. He has received numerous awards in recognition of his work and leadership, including the Media Excellence Award from The Kerala Center in New York.

Ginsmon P. Zacharia has served as the head of several organizations in the United States and Europe. Prior to immigrating to the United States, he was the first GeneralSsecretary of the Liverpool Malayalee Cultural Association in England. He worked for the European edition of the Deepika newspaper and was the Director of Jaihind TV USA.

He served as the General Secretary of Indo-American Lawyers Forum, Secretary of Indo-American Malayali Chamber of Commerce and Joint Secretary of Kerala Samajam of Greater New York.

Ginsmon hails from Thodupuzha, Kerala and holds a degree in Law from the University of Bangalore and a Master’s Degree in Business Management. He currently lives in New York with his wife Siji Augustine and their children Andrew, Briona, and Ethen.

James Koodal to lead Houston Chapter of IAPC

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Social Media 0

A new leadership team for IAPC Houston Chapter was elected in the meeting last week presided over by Indo American Press Club founder Chairman Ginsmon Zacharia; held at Stanford, Houston, TX.

James Koodal was elected Chapter President, while Suresh Ramakrishnan is the new Vice-President, Andrew Jacob is the General Secretary, Reny Kavalayil is the Joint Secretary, and, Simon Valacherry is the Treasurer for the calendar year 2019.

Easo Jacob will serve as the Chapter Advisory Board Chair and Dr. Chandra Mittal, Joseph Ponnoli, Joji Joseph, and C. G. Daniel are others elected as Chapter Advisoy Board Members.

James Koodal is one of the prominent socio-cultural media fraternity entrepreneurs based in Houston, TX. For over 35 years, he has contributed generously to the diaspora. He being the producer of ‘Vision Arabia’ broadcasted on Jaihind channel in Bahrain, Koodal is a noted creative contributor on multiple media platforms. It’s noteworthy that Koodal, is the American Region President of The World Malayali Council as well. He is the Managing Director of the Houston based M.S.J. Business Group.

Elected Vice President Suresh Ramakrishnan is the Managing Director of Houston based leading publication ‘Nerkaazhcha’. He has served as the Greater Houston Malayali Association in the capacity of General Secretary.

Andrew Jacob, the General Secretary, is the serving Cultural committee Chairman of the World Malayali Council and he is a Board Member at The Houston Malayali Association.

Joint Secretary Reny Kavalayil, is a noted media professional of Indian diaspora and socially he serves on the board of the Houston Malayali Association. Simon Valachery, the elected chapter Treasurer is the Managing Editor of the publication ‘Nerkaazhcha’ as well he is a recognized promising leader of the diaspora.

The new leadership was complimented and congratulated by the IAPC National Secretary Jacob Kudassanad, noted media associates Sangeeta Dua, Roy Thomas, Babu Chacko, Saji Dominic together with the Houston Chapter members.

IAPC was formed with the lofty goal of realizing a long-felt need to bring together the media groups and the Indian American media persons across the United States under one umbrella to work together and support one another, and thus giving them a powerful voice in the media world and the larger society. IAPC members are dedicated to fulfill the vision of enhancing their own journalistic skills while striving to help fellow journalists and future generations to work towards the common cause of enhancing the well being and efficiency of all peoples of the world.For more information, please visit: https://www.indoamericanpressclub.com/

5th Indo American Press Club International Media to be held in Atlanta

August 29, 2018 Staff ReporterTourism 0

Atlanta, GA – Preparations are in full swing for the fifth International Media Conference (IMC) by the Indo American Press Club (IAPC) at Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel from October 5^th to 7^th, 2018, Dr. Babu Stephen, Chairman of IAPC announced here last week at the kick-off meeting held in Atlanta.

“Several national level leaders of different political parties and eminent media persons from India will be attending the event,” he said. “We are expecting a total of 30 to 40 persons from India, 25 of whom have already confirmed. Further discussions are in progress in this regard,” Dr. Stephen said. He welcomed the whole-hearted support of the members of IAPC’s Atlanta chapter to make the Conference a great success.

The Conference will include several workshops and seminars headed by eminent Indian politicians as well as journalists from the print and audio-visual media. “We expect this year’s event will attract more participants than the previous years,” Dr. Stephen said.

Various Committees have been formed under the leadership of accomplished community leaders and other experts for the seamless conduct of the Conference. The committees are chaired by Babu Stephen (Finance), Mini Nair (Entertainment and Food Committees), Ginsmon Zachariah (Award), Sabu Kurian (Medical), George Kottarathil (Competition), Morley J. Nair (Publicity & Media), Lukose Tharian (Transportation), Jomy George (Reception & Registration and Youth Committess), Vineetha Nair (Program), Roopsi Narula (Women’s), Prasad Philipose (Stage), Thomas Mathew Joys (Souvenir), and Sunil J. Koozhambala (Educational Award),

IAPC, formed in 2013 with the objective of bringing together the U.S. media-persons of Indian origin, has been conducting annual conferences in different U.S. cities for the last four years. The previous events were attended by eminent Indian personalities from the fields of government, media, and literature. IAPC currently has eight local chapters in US and Canada.

Indo American Press Club Executive Committee inaugurated at Indian Consulate

April 17, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

New York: Now in its 5^th year, Indo American Press Club (IAPC) inaugurated its 2018 Executive Committee at the Indian Consulate in New York on April 19. Well-known TV journalist as well as social and political activist Renee Mehrra is the incoming President. The oath of office was administered by Ginsmon Zacharia, who founded IAPC and served as chairman till last year. Among other activities, the new team will organize the annual International Media Conference in Atlanta this October.

In his inaugural address, Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty encouraged IAPC and its new team in their mission. He specially congratulated the club on selecting a woman to lead it. He said that government officials and diplomats like him depend on the media to get their message across.

Renee Mehraa, in her acceptance speech, said, “Media has a responsibility to lead society and culture in a positive way and we are fortunate to do work that makes a tangible difference in the lives of our vibrant community.” She promised to take IAPC to a new level with the help of her executive committee and her friends in the social-political sphere. She also would like to see more women of color in US media for a more inclusive democracy.

As TV anchor Renee has been associated with ITV for many years. As community activist, she is a former NYC Commissioner for Human Rights and is Adviser, Women’s Cabinet, NYC Mayor’s Office of Minority Affairs.

Many officials and Indian community leaders were at hand to congratulate Renee, whom they have known for many years. Among them was NYS Assemblyman David Weprin, Dr Neeta Jain (Democratic District leader from 25^th Assembly District), Shiv Dass and Darshan Singh Bagga. Malini Shah, community liaison for NYC Councilman Paul Vallone gave a citation to Renee as did a representative from NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer’s office. Governor Andrew Cuomo and Congressman Joseph Crowley sent congratulatory messages. 4-year-old Merryn Augustine gave a Bharatanatyam performance. Vote of thanks was given by Anil Mathew, IAPC General Secretary. Roopsi Narula of TV Asia and IAPC Vice President ably conducted the event as MC.

Onkar N Sharma, Kamlesh Mehta inducted to Board of Directors, IAPC

November 23, 2017 Ajay GhoshProfiles 0

“The Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) is happy to welcome Onkar N Sharma, Kamlesh Mehta inducted to Board of Directors of the premier Press Club, formed with lofty ideal of providing a common platform to journalists of Indian origin living in the United States, while fostering closer bonds and cooperation among an extensive network of journalists across the nation, who are committed to professionalism and have the well-being of the larger society,” said Babu Stephen, Chairman of the Board of Directors of IAPC, in a statement.

Onkar N Sharma Esq. is the Managing Attorney at Sharma Law Group, CHTD. He has also been kind enough to be the legal advisor to the Indo American Press Club since March 2017. In the media industry he is well known for running the versatile show ‘Washington Focus’ for more than 15 years under the Darshan TV.

He is also a regular columnist in the weekly newspapers ‘Express India’ and ‘India This week’ that featuring news and trends from the sub-continent, published from the U.S. Capital.

Sharma was never confined to the limits of his professional life battling oddities for clients, he took time to resolve, advice and guide individuals and families through his engagements in open discussion forms, as a columnist for legal troubles in print media and as a generous contributor with many NGO’s. As a sought after attorney specializing in legal matters pertaining to the Hotel/Motel/Franchising streams his engagements keep him on a tight clock.

Kamlesh Mehta is a Long Island based media entrepreneur, senior Rotarian, community leader, businessman and philanthropist. Hailing from a prominent Jain family in Rajasthan, he started his diamond trading business in Bombay in 1985 before migrating to New York in 1986 to set up an expansive business of rare gemstones and diamonds.

He delved into the media business in 2008, founding The South Asian Times, an award-winning leading weekly newspaper for the community. Ventures of his Forsythe Media group include The Asian Era, a lifestyle magazine.

In January 2010, Mehta was appointed to the Nassau County administration to the prestigious position of Director of Business and Economic Development, where he served for over five years.

In September 2009 Mr Mehta became the Charter President of the Rotary Club of Hicksville South. He rose in the international organization to serve as Governor of RI District 7255 in the year 2015-16.

He has been honored as a major Rotary donor and has donated profusely to religious centers and social causes.

He is also associated with many community organizations including as founder of Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), founder of India Day Parade in Long Island that started in 2012 in Hicksville.

He has been nominated to the board of directors of a few businesses and has been recognized with many Lifetime Achievement awards and citations from community organizations and elected officials.

Ginsmon Zachariah, past Chairman of IAPC BOD, said, “We are indeed honored to have his consent to be on the Board of Directors of IAPC 2018. The Indo-American Press Club consists of a cohesive and vibrant group of journalists, media professionals and freelancers working or associating with print, broadcast and online media outlets in North America. It is an effective and credible platform for Indian American journalists and media professionals to associate and network with a sense of belonging.”

According to Zachariah, IAPC represents media persons, who work in diverse ethnic as well as mainstream media world here in the United States, including, print, visual, electronic and web-based. IAPC has envisioned for itself, a significant role in recognizing and nurturing the true potential of journalists and media professionals in the United States and Canada, while collaborating with media fraternity across the globe. At the recently held 4th annual International Media Conference, IAPC members renewed their commitment to the well-being of their fraternity and reaffirmed their resolve to be positive change agents in the society.

IAPC has Nine Chapters across the US and Canada, and has been organizing he Media Conferences every year with over 250 participants and guests over two days, consisting of inspiring seminars, discussions, debates, roundtables, youth forums, business sessions and entertainment programs.

IAPC, a registered nonprofit organization, is committed to enhancing the working conditions for journalists, exchanging of ideas, offering educational opportunities to our members and to aspiring journalists around the globe. While striving to have greater coordination and networking among journalists, its motto is to “be the voice of the community of Indian American journalists.” For more information, please visit: www.indoamericanpresslub.com

Indo-American Press Club hosts 4th International Media Conference in Philadelphia

October 24, 2017 Staff ReporterUncategorized 0

IAPC renews its commitment to well-being of media fraternity and reaffirms its resolve to be a positive change agent in the society

By Ginsmon Zachariah

Philadelphia: “Media is the strongest weapon of the present age,” said Mr. P. Sreeramakrishnan, Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, in his inaugural address of the 4th International Media Conference hosted by the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC), at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Center in Philadelphia on October 7th, 2017. He lauded the Non Resident Indians in the United States as the US is the home to the largest number of Pravasis associating with exemplary journalism and other professions in the media industry.

The Indo-American Press Club formed in 2013 consists of a cohesive and vibrant group of journalists, media professionals and freelancers working or associating with print, broadcast and online media outlets in North America. With hundreds of members in the 11 local Chapters across North America, IAPC has come to be an effective and credible platform for Indian American journalists and media professionals to associate and network with a sense of belonging.

According to its officials, IAPC has envisioned for itself, a significant role in recognizing and nurturing the true potential of journalists and media professionals in the United States and Canada, while collaborating with media fraternity across the globe. At the fourth International Media Conference, IAPC renewed its commitment to the well-being of media fraternity and reaffirmed its resolve to be positive change agents in the society. The Media Conference held over the weekend with over 250 delegates and guests had productive seminars, discussions, debates, roundtables, youth forum, business session and some entertainment programs.

Dr. Babu Stephen, the Chairman of IAPC in his presidential address mentioned that America is a country that provides everything to those who can work hard, and as dedicated media professionals, IAPC members must try to uphold the right values. He added that the IAPC is still in the growing mode and could envisage and execute many projects for the betterment of the community.

New Jersey Councilman Sterley Stanley congratulated the profound efforts of IAPC during the last four years, even though the media industry as a whole is going through a challenging phase. IAPC Founder and Former Chairman Ginsmon Zacharia talked about the growing power of IAPC and its initiatives to train the youth to be active participants in mainstream journalism.

During the seminars, topics such as current trends in media, the safety of journalists in India, Pravasi issues and concerns were discussed. Panelists included prominent media personalities like C.L.Thomas (Media One), Mangad Ratnakaran (Asianet News), Pramod Raman (Manorama TV News), J.S. Indukumar (Jai Hind TV), Dr.Francis Cleetus ( Rashtradeepika), Sunil Kuzhampala (Deepika), P.T.Chacko (KPCC Media Coordinator) Pradeep Pillai (The New Indian Express) and Saji Dominic, (Media Advisor).

The informative presentation on Immigration by Attorney Onkar Sharma was another highlight of the Conference. Yet another attraction was the ‘Youth Forum’ where Speaker P. Sreeramakrishnan and Former Education Minister of Kerala, M.A. Baby presented certificates of appreciation to children for their talents and their participation in the conference. The workshop encouraged youngsters to step into mainstream writing and journalism.

At the closing ceremony and gala banquet, Speaker P. Sreeramakrishnan, CPM Polit Bureau member M. A Baby, State Representative Scott Petri along with several community leaders were present. M.A.Baby said that the media industry is being engulfed by the power of vested interests and is losing its credibility, and IAPC must stand for true and unbiased journalism in the days to come. IAPC excellence awards were presented to those who made significant contributions to media and to community leaders for their services to the society. IAPC souvenir 2017 was released by the Speaker. Vice-Chairperson Vineetha Nair, Executive Vice President Korason Varghese, General Secretary Eapen George, Treasurer Biju Chacko, New York Chapter President Mathewkutty Easo, Philadelphia Chapter President Reji Philip, the National coordinator from Canada Ashly Joseph and other executive members of IAPC addressed the audience.

Padma Shri HR Shah honored during IAPC new team inaugural event

March 16, 2017 Staff ReporterUncategorized 0

The Indian American Press Club (IAPC) held the inauguration of its new Executive Committee on March 4th in New York in the presence of community leaders and officials. H.R. Shah, Chairman and CEO of TV Asia conferred Padma Shri this year, was warmly felicitated at the gala event at Antun’s by Minar.

Professor Indrajit S Saluja, editor-publisher of The Indian Panorama, was sworn in as the new President, taking over from Parveen Chopra, Managing Editor of The South Asian Times and The Asian Era. Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos administered the oath of office to the new IAPC office-bearers including George Eapen (General Secretary) and Biju Chacko (Treasurer).

Ginsmon Zacharia, founder Chairman of IPAC who has interests in print and TV, stepped down after shepherding the organization for three years. The new Chairman Dr. Babu Stephen, who assumed charge as the Chairman of Board of Directors, publishes two community newspapers from the Washington DC area: Express India and India This Week, and is the CEO of DC Healthcare Inc, and president of SM Reality LLC.

H.R. Shah, in his speech, dwelt on his initial struggles in media but said he did not give up. Under him, TV Asia is today the largest TV network for the Indian community in America. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for conferring on him one of the highest civilian awards of India. He also thanked Prof. Saluja for IAPC felicitating him.

Comptroller Maragos underscored the role of media in a democracy and lauded Indian American media for doing a great job to promote interests of the community and serving the great American nation in the best fashion. He also revealed his intention to run for Nassau County Executive.

In his keynote address, Jehangir Khattak, Co-Director, Center for Community and Ethnic Media, CUNY Graduate School of Journalism, spoke about how he has been fighting for more government dollars for the ethnic media, including desi media. A book, ‘Musings on Medicine, Myth, and History – India’s Legacy’, by Dr. VK Raju and Dr. Leela Raju was launched on the occasion.

IAPC, with six active chapters in the US and Canada, has organized three successful annual international media conferences in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut over the past three years. A highlight of the conference last year was a presidential debate with representatives from Democratic and Republican sides

Indo American Press Club Inducts New Leadership

February 13, 2016 Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

(Long Island, NY: February 13, 2016) The Indo American Press Club (IAPC) swore in its new team on Long Island during a solemn ceremony on February 6^th, 2016. Leading media personalities who graced the event at Tyson Center in Floral Park included HR Shah of TV Asia, Dev Viswanath of ITV, Kamlesh Mehta, Chairman of Forsythe Media Group, and Prof Indrajit Saluja, chief editor of The Indian Panorama.

IAPC’s new President Parveen Chopra, Managing Editor of The South Asian Times and The Asian Era, was inducted along with his team: Dr. Thomas Mathew Joys, columnist and novelist (Exec. Vice President); Korason Varghese, Editor, Jaihind Vartha (General Secretary); Vice Presidents Cyriac Scaria and Jilly Samuel, and Anil Mathew (Treasurer). The oath of office was administered by Ginsmon Zacharia, IAPC Chairman, after the inductees were introduced by Vineetha Nair, Vice Chairperson. Korason Varghese welcomed the gathering.

In his keynote address, HR Shah, Chairman and CEO of TV Asia, promised his full support for IAPC as well as for all Indian media professionals in the USA. There is no competition between one media or media house and another, he said and urged visual and print media to work together. In his view, digital media may have affected print, but advertisers still seem to prefer the bang of print. He credited his incredible success to hard work and perseverance, and promised to stand by anyone who displays such qualities and a drive to excel.

Kamlesh Mehta, Chairman of The South Asian Times, said IAPC has the capacity to grow very resourceful for the good of Indian American media fraternity. He complimented the new office bearers and wished them success.

Dev Viswanath, Attorney and Vice President-Principal Legal Counsel of ITV Gold TV channel, lauded the growth and presence of Indian-American ethnic media and Indian-American professionals in mainstream US media. He challenged the media today to be vigilant in covering the different perspectives, even if they are less popular, so that viewers, readers, audiences can formulate their own opinions. And to create content that was non-political yet interesting and substantive.

Prof Indrajit S Saluja, chief editor of The Indian Panorama, underlined the need for media to be fair and fearless even as it is like a second God, having the power to direct political winds, prompt thought provoking action and socio-economic awakening.

Dr Ajay Lodha, President-Elect of AAPI, in his speech admired media influence in the modern world. Stating that the Indian community in the US is the highest educated and very well placed, he advocated all community organizations to work together to advance the community.

In his presidential address, Parveen Chopra said that IAPC is a platform for all Indian ethnic media professionals — not just its members — and will raise their concerns and work to further their interests. While acknowledging that IAPC was founded by natives of Kerala, he pointed out that GOPIO, FIA, INOC and even AAPI were started by Malayalees, and became diverse in time as IAPC is becoming now. Shomik Chaudhuri, Vice President, Adforce North America, and former COO of Parikh Worldwide Media, gave a lucid presentation on harnessing digital marketing.

Dr. Thomas Joys elaborated on IAPC’s tie-ups with the Trivandrum Press Club and Kottayam Press Clubs in Kerala and that IAPC is launching an Online Journalism Course. He also laid out the benefits of new IPCC membership card. The ID cards were distributed to members at the event.

The Satkarma Award 2016 was announced to be conferred on Murugan S at IAPC’s next annual conference to be held in October. He grew up in the streets but now rehabilitates the mentally challenged, physically impaired, impoverished and disowned individuals in Cochin, Kerala. Last October, social worker Daya Bai was presented the Satkarma Award at IAPC’s media conference at Clarion Hotel in Long Island, which attracted participants and presenters from India, Canada, Australia and UAE.

Others who spoke at the induction ceremony included Jose Thayyil, editor of Kairali newspaper, Vinod Kearke, FOKANA Secretary, Rev Wilson Jose, Patron of Indian Christian Forum, Koshy Oommen, Treasurer, Kerala Chamber of Commerce, and Babu Jesudas, of IAPC Board.

Anil Mathew offered vote of thanks. Jilly Samuel and Arun Gopalakrishnan were the MCs. Manjari Parikh gave an energetic dance performance. IAPC thanked HR Shah of TV Asia, Kamlesh Mehta of The South Asian Times and Darshan Singh Bagga, a builder-developer, for their spontaneous generous contributions.

Ajay Ghosh – Chief Editor, Universal News Network

October 29, 2015 Staff ReporterProfiles 0

Born and educated in India, Ajay Ghosh, The Chief Editor of Universal News Network, came to the United States to pursue his higher studies in Journalism in 1997. Having a Master’s Degree in Social Work, he worked as a freelance writer on social issues for numerous publications on in Delhi and served as the Editor of The Voice Delhi.

After graduating with a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the School of Journalism at Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, his life as a professional journalist began in the summer of 1999 in New York City. Starting as a reporter for India Post, he worked as the New York Bureau Chief of Indian Reporter and World News from 2000 to 2005.

From 2002 to 2008, Ajay worked as the Executive Editor of NRI Today, a monthly magazine, published from New York. He was instrumental in launching The Asian Era, a colorful magazine published from New York and worked as the Chief Editor from 1999 to 2015. He had worked for about two years as the New York Bureau Chief of India Tribune, a weekly newspaper, published from Chicago.

Since early 2014, he has been working as the Bureau Chief of The Indian Express, North American Editions. In 2014, he along with Dr. Joseph Chalil launched The Universal News Network, an online publication (www.theunn.com) and continues to serve as the Chief Editor of the web-portal.

In 2010, Ajay was appointed as the Media Consultant of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI, the largest ethnic association representing over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin in the United States. He has been recently appointed as the Media Coordinator of GOPIO-CT, considered the most vibrant GOPIO Chapter in the world.

With the objective of bringing together the journalists of Indian origin scattered across the United States, Ajay along with his friends/colleagues in the media, was instrumental in forming Indo-American Press Club last year, and had served as the founder President of Indo-American Press Club.

In addition, Ajay taught Social Work Seminar and guided students at the Graduate School of Social Work, Fordham University in New York City since 2006. He has been working as the Administrator of the Mental Health Clinic at Saint Dominic’s Home, Bronx, New York from 1999 to 2014. Worked as the Treatment Coordinator at Saint Vincent’s Hospital’s Westport Campus, which serves patients with mental health issues, and had a bief stint as a Senior Social Worker at Children’s Village that serves children and families for over 150 years. At present, he works as a Social Worker at Yale New Haven Hospital.

Ajay Ghosh is married to Mini, his closest friend and wife for nearly two decades and the couple are blessed with three beautiful daughters, Archana, Navya, and Ahana. The Ajay Family lives in Trumbull, CT.

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Ajay Ghosh – Media and Journalism

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