TAMPA, FL (TIP): An Indian-American forum has announced internship program for young members of the community in the US Congress and the White House with the aim of creating political awareness among them.

Noting that while there are two Indian-American Governors – Nikki Haley and Bobby Jindal – there has not been much community representation in the Congress, the Indian-American Forum for Political Education (IAFPE) has said that it is time for more political awareness and participation among younger members of the community.

“Internship program at the US Congress and the White House would help us achieve this goal,” IAFPE president Dr Sampat Shivangi said while announcing the internships. At its meeting in Tampa on September 8 to launch the Florida chapter of IAFPE, Dr Shivangi also announced programs to promote voter registration and encourage Indian- Americans to exercise their rights to vote and run for public offices. Inaugurated by the Deputy Indian Ambassador to the US, Arun Singh, IAFPE meeting also announced Student Ambassador Program for Indian-American students to visit India in association with Indian Embassy in US to maintain their Indian identity. Speaking on the occasion, Singh said that India-US relations have matured in last few years. The bi-lateral trade between to democracies has now touched USD 100 billion.

India and US are natural allies as described US President Barack Obama and the Secretary of state Hillary Clinton, Singh said. Tulsi Gabbard, the Democratic Party Congressional candidate from Hawaii, was one of the guest speakers. Congressman Gus Bilirakis emphasized the contributions Indian-Americans have made in the US. The Congressman promised to join as a member of Indian Caucus in US Congress.

Speaking on the occasion, the former Indian Ambassador at Large for Non-resident Indians, Bhishma Agnihotri, traced the history of Indian Immigrants and their contributions in the field of Medicine specifically by American Physicians of Indian Origin. (Agencies)