The Indian Panorama

Tag: Dr. Jagdish Gupta

  • AIA-NY honors 5 extraordinary individuals at its annual gala

    AIA-NY honors 5 extraordinary individuals at its annual gala

    (From left) Mrs. Meena Gupta, Dr. Gupta, Senator Chuck Schumer, Honorees Mr. Naveen Shah, Dr. Raman Sharma, Prof. S.N. Sridhar, Dr. Vishal Kapur and Dr. Rekha Bhandari.

    US Senate Majority Leader Hon. Chuck Schumer was the Chief Guest of Honor

    GREAT NECK, NY (TIP): The Association of Indians in America (AIA) NY chapter held on June 3, its Annual Gala under the leadership of Dr. Jagdish K. Gupta to raise funds for the 37th Deepavali Fest slated for October 6, 2024, and for the ‘AIA-Educational Project,’ to empower Indian-American students in need to achieve their educational potential and dreams.

    The Gala was attended by 200 distinguished members of the community, including past presidents and members of the Advisory Board of Trustees of AIA. It was held on June 2, 2024, at the redesigned Crystal Ballroom of Leonard’s Palazzo Exquisite Banquet Hall in Great Neck.

    Dr. Sumita Sengupta (Gala Co-chair), Assemblyman David Weprin, Dr. Raman Sharma, President Dr. Jagdish Gupta, and Chairman of Board Dr. Samin Sharma.

    Honorable Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was the Chief Guest of Honor. In his remarks, he highlighted his visit to India, the importance of strong India-US ties, and praised Indian leaders, culture, traditions, and the community’s contributions to education and healthcare. He emphasized the strong maritime defense ties between the two countries in the Indian Ocean. He also applauded Indian physicians and parents for their commitment to education, drawing parallels with the Jewish community. His remarks received multiple rounds of applause and ended with a standing ovation.

    New York State Assemblyman David Weprin from District 24 was an honored guest. He has been a staunch supporter of the AIA-NY, helping to secure Alternate Day Parking suspension on Diwali each year and advocating for Diwali as a school holiday in New York City. He expressed his pride in supporting the Indian community and emphasized the importance of cultural recognition in fostering a diverse and inclusive society.

    Vote of Thanks from the Executive Committee group actively involved with Gala Celebrations.

    In keeping with the theme of Women’s Empowerment, Dr. Rekha Bhandari, Chief Medical Officer for the MedElite Group/Allure Group/Vis-à-vis Health, was honored with the ‘Excellence in Healthcare Award’ for her innovative contributions to healthcare. In her acceptance speech, she expressed her hope to inspire women in healthcare. She stated, “I am humbled and honored to receive this award from one of the oldest ethnic organizations. I hope my journey serves as a trailblazer for other women to follow and get inspired in the healthcare field.”

    Mr. Naveen C. Shah, CEO of Navika Group of Companies and Blue-Sky Hospitality Solutions, received the ‘Entrepreneur Par Excellence Award’ for his success in building a multibillion-dollar conglomerate and his philanthropic efforts supporting numerous nonprofit organizations. In his speech, Mr. Shah paid tribute to all the AIA founders, past presidents, Board of Trustees, advisors, and current officers for their dedication and relentless efforts in supporting Indians in America. He remarked, “Our unity and support has been pivotal in promoting Indian culture and heritage in the USA.”

    Dr. S.N. Sridhar, Distinguished Professor of Linguistics and India Studies at Stony Brook University, was recognized for ‘Excellence in Literature, Linguistics & founding India Studies at Stony Brook University.’ His significant contributions to bilingualism and multilingualism studies and co-editing the book ‘Ananya: A Portrait of India’ were highlighted. He shared insights into his research and its impact on promoting cultural understanding.

    Senator Schumer and Honorees – Dr. Vishal Kapur with his family, Dr. Raman Sharma & Mrs. Clara Sharma, Mr. Naveen Shah & Mrs. Rajshree Shah.

    Dr. Vishal Kapur and Dr. Raman Sharma from Mount Sinai Health System were also honored. Dr. Kapur received the ‘Excellence in Cardiology-Vascular & Endovascular Medicine’ award, while Dr. Sharma was presented with the ‘Special Young Physician Award for Excellence in Endovascular Intervention’. Dr. Kapur spoke about the advancements in endovascular treatments at Mount Sinai and the importance of innovation in patient care. Dr. Sharma highlighted the significance of his work in saving limbs from ischemia in diabetics and preventing strokes in patients with carotid artery blockages.

    The evening began with a social networking hour featuring cocktails and Indian hors d’oeuvres, followed by entertainment including live performances by Ms. Tanmayee Mohapatra and Ms. Jagabattula Maheshwari. Mrs. Beena Kothari, Vice President and Gala Chair, welcomed guests and introduced Dr. Jagdish Gupta, who spoke about the significance of Deepavali Celebrations and the importance of supporting educational excellence in the Indian-American community.

    Dr. Samin Sharma, Chairman of the AIA Board of Trustees, highlighted the achievements of Indian Americans in healthcare and corporate America.

    Citations for AIA-NY and the honorees were received from various dignitaries, including the Indian Consulate, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and New York State Senator Kevin Thomas.

    Dr. Gupta thanked all the sponsors and partners, including Fareportal – CheapOair, Mount Sinai Hospital, Northwell Health System, Mattoo Center for India Studies, Brooklyn Hospital Center, Navika Group of Companies, Blue-Sky Hospitality Solutions, Parker Jewish Institute, CenterLight Healthcare, and media partners. The event concluded with a sumptuous dinner, dancing, and entertainment.

    AIA is one of the oldest ethnic organizations representing the Indian community in America. It aims to promote cultural understanding, assimilation, and recognition of Indian traditions and heritage in the United States.

    Contact: Dr. Jagdish K Gupta, email: Jagdishkgupta@gmail.com

    (from left) Mrs. Meena Gupta greeting Senator Schumer, Beena Kothari – Gala Chair, AIA-NY President Dr. Jagdish Gupta, and Mr. Naveen Shah-Honoree. (Photos Credit : AIA-NY)
  • Dr. Jagdish Gupta bestowed President Gold Medal by the Brooklyn Medical Society in a Bicentennial Year Honor

    Dr. Jagdish Gupta bestowed President Gold Medal by the Brooklyn Medical Society in a Bicentennial Year Honor

    BROOKLYN, NY (TIP): The Medical Society of the County of Kings (MSCK), Brooklyn’s oldest scientific organization, honored Dr. Jagdish K. Gupta with the President Gold Medal, inducting him into its Prestigious President-Club. The County Society was celebrating its 174th President’s Dinner at Dyker Beach Golf Club, culminating in a grand finale to its Bicentennial Year Celebrations. MSCK President Dr. Madhu Gudavalli introduced the guest of honor, Dr. Gupta, President of the Association of Indians in America – (AIA-NY chapter), and invited 14 past presidents of the society, along with Dr. Parag Mehta, past President of the Medical Society of the State, to honor Dr Gupta with the 174th President Gold Medal. Dr. Robert Frankle, Chairman of the Board of the Medical Society of the State of New York, presented the plaque-award to Dr. Gupta. Additional citations from NYS Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblyman Lester Chang were presented to Dr Gupta by Dr. Lance Austein, past President, and Dr. Donald Moore, past President and Vice Chairman of MSCK. Mrs. Meena Gupta was presented with the Golden Charm as the 174th First Lady. While accepting the honor with humility, Dr. Gupta reflected on the highlights of the MSCK’s Bicentennial Year Celebrations that started last year marking 200 years of its advocacy, dedication, and patient care. Proclamations at the state Assembly and City Council had declared May 25, 2022 as the “Bicentennial Celebration Day for MSCK.” Another notable achievement of MSCK involved a collaborative session with other New York counties and MSSNY at the iconic Brooklyn Borough Hall. A video message from NYS Senate Majority Leader Hon. Andrea Stewart-Cousins and a personal session with NYS Health Committee Chairman, Hon. Gustav Rivera, and six other Assembly members emphasized opposition to the Wrongful Death Liability Expansion Bill. The successful veto of the bill by Governor Kathy Hochul marked a rare achievement against the trial lawyers’ association.
    The prestigious event was chaired by Dr. Neeraj Acharya, Past President and Treasurer of MSCK, and unfolded under the guidance of Dr. Sherman Dunn, Chairman of the MSCK Board, and Dr. Gudavalli, the current President. The keynote address by Dr. Sanjiv Chopra on “Reflections on Lasting Happiness and Living with Purpose” received a standing ovation. An exhibition curated by County Historian, Dr. Moore, displayed historical artifacts, The dinner event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony, where the past Presidents of the MSCK and other prominent guests joined Dr. Jagdish Gupta to celebrate his induction into the Board of Trustees of the Academy of Medicine of Brooklyn.

  • Fireworks, entertainment and festivities attract crowds to AIA-NY’s 36th Deepavali Festival

    Fireworks, entertainment and festivities attract crowds to AIA-NY’s 36th Deepavali Festival

    Eminent ophthalmologist Dr. V.K. Raju who has made a world without childhood blindness the mission of his life was honored for his great humanitarian work. Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar honored Dr. Raju with a plaque.

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The 36th Annual Deepavali Festival was held at the South Street Seaport here on Sunday, October 1, attracting  crowds that enjoyed sumptuous food by Michelin Star Chef Hemant Mathur, danced to the music of legendary Basement Bhangra Queen DJ Rekha Team, watched the presentation of a few episodes from the Ramayana,  and were enchanted by the finale – a spectacular display of fireworks on the East River.

    The daylong event was organized by the Association of Indians in America, New York chapter, established in 1967 with a mission to promote the rich culture and traditions of Indians in their adopted land and to pass on these values to their younger generations.  “AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of our immigrant community united by the ideal of ‘Indian Heritage and American Commitment’, which is the AIA motto”, said Dr. Jagdish Gupta, President of AIA-NY. In his opening remarks, Dr. Gupta  elaborated on the main achievements of AIA over the last 56 years, such as New York City recognizing Diwali as an official holiday and suspending Alternate Side Street Parking on Diwali since 2005, celebrating the festival of lights in Gracie Mansion and later in White House in 2006, and release of official USPS “Forever Stamp” commemorating Diwali in 2013.

    The iconic Deepavali Festival this time was graced and addressed by Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar, who proudly mentioned “Deepavali Day as a school holiday” for all our children in the entire NYC school system, which is the largest in the nation.

    Council Member Shekar Krishnan from District 25 in Jackson Heights in his speech explained the meaning of Deepavali as a ‘A row of lamps’. It signifies the triumph of ‘Good over Evil’, ‘Light over Darkness’, and  ‘Knowledge over Ignorance’.

    Deputy Commissioner of the Community Relations Bureau at the NYC Commission on Human Rights, Ms. Kajori Chaudhuri spoke about Diwali as the festival of joy and happiness for families highlighting that the holiday is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Buddhists and people of many different countries including Indo-Caribbeans.

    On the occasion, an eminent ophthalmologist Dr. V.K. Raju who has made a world without childhood blindness the mission of life  was honored for his humanitarian work.

    The event at South Street Seaport started with the American Anthem sung by Mrs. Toral Shah followed by the Indian National Anthem sung in a chorus by the Executive Committee of AIA’s NY chapter and joined by everyone.  Swati Vaishnav curated the cultural show participated by the best dance schools in the Tristate area, including Nartan Dance Academy, Reba Brown Dance Company, Kalakriti Academy of Arts, Neela Zareen Dance Academy, Shehnaaz Dance Academy and Ranjaneeny Dance School.

    The classical and traditional cultural program was beautifully emceed by Ms. Siddhi Vaishnav. All performances were of the highest artistic level and enjoyed by all with appreciation by frequent clapping. She also conducted a workshop with children on the stage and audience participation for various dance moves that was well received.

    The celebration continued with the reenactment of Ram Leela, directed by Pandit Satya Narayan Charka. He has been directing Ram Leela in AIA-NY Deepavali Festivals for the last 36 years. AIA-NY salutes him for his devotion. The story of Ramayana was beautifully performed by over 15 artists with excellent acting including dances and a musical component. Young and old in the audience were riveted by it.  The star entertainment of the evening was Basement Bhangra Queen, legendary DJ Rekha and her team – MC Reena Shah, Alisha Desai, Juhi Desai, Avish on Dhol, Elizabeth Pupo-Walker as percussionist, dancers and instructors who kept the audience spellbound.

    The celebrations ended in a crescendo with the Fireworks Extravaganza from the barge on East River sponsored by the Association of Indians in America. The amazing pyro technique display lasted almost 30 minutes. The display of multiple colors and shapes along with the sounds of Indian music was thoroughly enjoyed by hundreds of viewers in the observation deck. An event of this magnitude is not possible without the support of the community at large including major sponsors CheapOair and Qatar Airways, New York Life, Mount Sinai Health System, Northwell Health System, Eye Foundation of America, and The Brooklyn Hospital Center.  AIA-NY President Dr. Jagdish Gupta also expressed gratitude to his executive committee and advisers and media sponsors for their support.

    (Based on a press release by AIA)

    One of the main attractions at the Diwali Mela was presentation of a few episodes from the Ramayana.
    A view of the gathering .
  • Pearl Banquet Hall and Convention Center in heart of Hicksville celebrates Grand Opening

    Pearl Banquet Hall and Convention Center in heart of Hicksville celebrates Grand Opening

    Ribbon cutting by the family: Dilsheet, Janessa, Alissa, Navneet Sikka, Bably Sikka, Sean Sikka, Gary Sikka, Sunny, Sondhi, and Rubal Sikka.
    Suffolk County Deputy Executive Jon Kaiman presenting a Proclamation on behalf of the County to Gary Sikka . L to R: Indu Jaiswal, Gary Sikka, Jon Kaiman, Naveen Shah, Mohinder TanejaSuffolk County Deputy Executive Jon Kaiman presenting a Proclamation on behalf of the County to Gary Sikka . L to R: Indu Jaiswal, Gary Sikka, Jon Kaiman, Naveen Shah, Mohinder Taneja.
    L to R: Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, Sant Chatwal, Gary Sikka, Herman Singh.

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): As part of their mission to provide the best in the hospitality industry, PEARL Banquet Hall opened its doors on 23rd July 2023. More than 1100 guests attended to celebrate the occasion and to experience the majesty. brilliance, elegance, and grandeur of PEARL firsthand.
    The Grand Opening program started with Sukhmani Sahib Path, Kirtan and Ardaas, followed by sumptuous Langar Prasad that was catered by Mint.

    Harry Bolla (left ) congratulates Gary Sikka

    Rubal Sikka, the owner and President of Pearl said that with determination and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Pearl is a labor of love and brings an excellent dining experience in an atmosphere that is both tranquil and exhilarating.
    Gary Sikka, the Chief Executive Officer, and the Executive Chef said that the 2000 Sq. feet building of Pearl stood in a 2-acre lot, with a spacious parking lot. The Banquet Hall has the capacity to host events for up to 400 people on the main floor. Another 100 can be accommodated on the second floor.
    Pearl is an extension of Mint known for their delicious food for the last 20 years. Pearl will offer not only all kinds of Indian cuisines, but it will also offer Continental, Chinese, Thai, Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican cuisines. The opulent ambience in gold tones and with beautiful chandeliers is a delight to look at.
    The unveiling of the Banquet Hall was attended by Mr. Sant Singh Chatwal, internationally renowned Hotelier, Mr. Harry Singh Bolla Chairman of the Billion Dollar Bolla Management Corporation, Mr. Naveen Shah, CEO of multibillion-dollar corporation Navika Capital Group, Dr. Pailla Malla Reddy, CEO of ScieGen Pharmaceutical Company, Mr. Jon Kaiman, Deputy County Executive, Suffolk County, many community leaders and social activists.
    Among the many who attended the Opening Ceremony were Mr. Mohinder Sigh Taneja, Mr. Zahid Syed, Mr. Shudh Prakash Singh, Mr. Varinder Sikka, Dr. Sunil Mehra, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Mr. Harish Thakkar, Ms. Indu Gajwani, Ms. Indu Jaiswal, Ms. Beena Kothari, Ms. Bina Sabapathy, Mr. Deepak Bansal, Mr. Sharanjit Singh Thind, Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, Mr. Kamlesh Mehta, Dr. Rajinder Jinna, Dr. Vinny Jayam, Dr Raj Bhayani, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Dr. Avtar Singh Tinna, Mr. Satnam Singh Parhar, Mr. Govind Munjal, Mrs. Suman Munjal, Mr. Sunil Hali, Mr. Ajay Sondhi ,Mr. V Nagendra Gupta, and Mr. Jasbir Jay Singh. Mr. Sant Chatwal was full of admiration for the ambience of the place. Mr. Harry Bolla congratulated Mr. Gary Sikka for the “lovely place” which was the best in Long Island. Mr. Jon Kaiman presented a Proclamation o behalf of Suffolk County to Gary Sikka.

    The great place is open and ready to serve you. Why wait? Barge in today.

    Main lobby of Pearl
    Banquet Hall
    Buffet area
    Entrance
    Spacious 150 cars Parking lot
  • Founder of Sulabh International Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak felicitated on Long Island

    Founder of Sulabh International Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak felicitated on Long Island

    Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak and wife Amola Pathak were given a warm reception on arrival at the Mint Restaurant in Garden City. From L to R: Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, Arvind Vora, Kamlesh Mehta, Amola Pathak, Pam Kwatra, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Jagdish Sewhani, and Raj Wadhwa.

    GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP): Prominent Indian American community leaders welcomed living legend Dr Bindeshwar Pathak at a meet-and-greet on June 19 in Long Island. A Padma Bhushan awardee, Dr Pathak is famous as the founder of Sulabh International, the largest NGO in India, which has built over 9,000 public toilets across the country.

    Co-hosts of the dinner event at Mint restaurant near Roosevelt Field Mall included community leaders Pam Kwatra, Kamlesh Mehta, Eric Kumar, and Raj Wadhwa. Eminent speakers included Ragini Srivastava, Town Clerk, Town of North Hempstead, entrepreneur and philanthropist Mohan Wanchoo, The Indian Panorama Chief Editor Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, President of AAPI-QLI Dr Vinni Jayam, Shanti Fund founder Arvind Vora, Dr Jagdish Gupta, Jagdish Sewhani and senior community leader Dr Narinder Kukar.

    Eric Kumar as emcee drew the line from the pathfinding work of Dr Pathak to eradicate scavenging to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachch Bharat campaign. Ellis Island Medal honoree Pam Kwatra mentioned that the seed capital for Dr Pathak’s social enterprise came in the form of jewelry from his wife, Amola, who was present at the event. Amola Pathak was felicitated by Nimmi Mehta and Totee Wadhwa. Prominent guests who gave Dr Pathak a standing ovation included Harish Thakkar, Jaspreet Mayall, Ashish Srivastava, Parveen Chopra, Shomik Chaudhuri, Jay Raj, Dr. Manju Kukar, Ila Vora, Taranbir Kaur and Prasad ji. In his speech, Dr Pathak, a sociologist with a PhD from the University of Patna, acknowledged that his inspiration came from Mahatma Gandhi. A recipient of the Gandhi Peace Prize in 2016, Dr Pathak was on the 5-member jury this time which last week selected Gita Press, Gorakhpur (the world’s largest publisher of Hindu religious books since 1923) for the same prestigious award by the Government of India.

    Dr Pathak’s accomplishments span the fields of sanitation technology, social enterprise, and healthcare education for millions of people in India, serving as a model for NGO agencies and public health initiatives around the world.

    Born a Brahmin, he has worked tirelessly for the human rights of the manual scavengers who clean dry latrines, come from the lowest stratum of India’s caste-based system, and are mostly women. His actions aimed at rehabilitating them and providing alternative employment through skill development.

    The most visible sign of his work is the Sulabh toilets in all major public places in India including at 36 railway stations which are used by approximately 20 million people every day.

  • Eminent gastroenterologist Dr. Jagdish Gupta takes over as President of AIA-NY chapter

    Eminent gastroenterologist Dr. Jagdish Gupta takes over as President of AIA-NY chapter

    Dr. Jagdish Gupta gives his presidential address.Dr. Jagdish Gupta.
    Outgoing President Harish Thakkar holds the plaque presented to him. Seen in the picture, among others, are Prem Bhandari (extreme left), Nilima Madan ( 2nd from left), Dr. Narinder Kukar (6th from left), Dr. Shashi Shah, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Hon Thomas McKevitt, Animesh Goenka, Dr. Sunil Mehra, and Beena Kothari.

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Eminent physician and community leader Dr Jagdish K. Gupta has been sworn in as President of the Association of Indians in America (AIA – NY chapter) for two years. The Oath of Office was administered by Nassau County legislator Hon. Thomas McKevitt to Dr Gupta and his executive committee at a graceful ceremony on June 2 at the county seat in Mineola, NY.

    In his presidential address, Dr Gupta said that preparations have started in earnest for AIA-NY’s flagship annual program, the iconic Deepavali on South Street Seaport in Manhattan on October 1. And it will be better and bigger than it was before Covid played spoilsport for a couple of years.

    Shreya, a student of Satya Pradeep, gives a classical dance performance.

    Dr Gupta, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.G., former President of IALI (Indian Association of Long Island) and AAPI-QLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of Queens and Long Island), also told the august gathering of former and current AIA office holders and members as well as community leaders that time has come to add to the numerous achievements and milestones of AIA’s past, both at the State and Federal Levels.

    “We are working with our Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar and Speaker of the House Carl Heastie to get Diwali Holiday approved for the entire New York State, not just NYC. We are also working with Congresswoman Grace Meng on Bill HR 3336 to get Diwali declared as a federal Holiday,” Dr Gupta said to applause in the legislative chamber of Nassau County. Stressing that these endeavors require moral and financial commitments from all of us, he implored all to support AIA, the NY chapter, and Indian culture to the best of their capabilities.

    Dr Gupta, an eminent gastroenterologist, added that post-Covid, to serve the community better they are starting a series of programs via Zoom on physical and mental health. The reach of cultural awareness and educational programs will be expanded with webinars and shows. Dr Gupta encouraged participation in AIA activities by generation-next, adding, “We will encourage and induct young leadership. Atul Kukar, Anuj Goenka, Pallavi Manvar, Amar Manvar and many others like them, who grew up with our motto of ‘Indian Heritage and American Commitment’, have great potential to become young AIA leaders.” Dr Gupta praised his able executive committee team, which includes Dr Tara Lodha as Secretary, Nilima Madan as Joint Secretary, Antia Harish Thakkar as Treasurer, Vice Presidents Dr Vijaypal Arya, Vimal Goyal, Dr Sunil Mehra and Beena Kothari.

    Passing the baton to Dr Gupta, Harish Thakkar, who served two terms as President from 2019-22, wished him success and all his support. Thakkar said that when they could not hold the popular Deepavali event in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid, they organized an event at Nasdaq in Manhattan with the massive Nasdaq screen flashing Diwali greetings. They also extended all help possible to the distressed members of the community, including serving food to the needy. PPP materials were provided to health and essential workers.

    Others who spoke briefly included Animesh Goenka, Dr Shashi Shah, and Dr Narinder Kukar, all past Presidents of AIA National. Nilima Madan and Beena Kothari ably emceed the program.

    A classical Indian dance performance was given by Shreya, a student of Satya Pradeep.

    A vegetarian dinner concluded the event. The program was covered by the television media.

    Incoming President Dr Gupta has many accomplishments in the medical profession. Born and raised in Hisar, Haryana, he graduated from the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi in 1966. He completed his residency and fellowship training at Long Island College Hospital (LICH). He is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Gastroenterology. He is also on the Board of Trustees of the Academy of Medicine in Brooklyn. An Assistant Clinical Professor at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn, he has been on the TOP DOCTORS list of Castle Connolly for over 20 years consecutively and was designated as SUPER DOC by New York Times for three years. Last year he had the opportunity to serve as the President of the King County Medical Society during its Bicentennial Year Celebrations. He is very active in National AAPI and is on the board of the AAPI Charitable Foundation.

  • AAPI-QLI Convention 2022 held: Four accomplished Physicians honored

    AAPI-QLI Convention 2022 held: Four accomplished Physicians honored

    Dr. Jagdish Gupta addresses.
    Dr. Patrick O’ Shaughnessy Award
    (From L- R):Dr. Chuck Lucore-CEO of St. Francis Hospital, Dr. Abhay Malhotra-Immediate Past President, Mrs. Mamta Malhotra, Mrs. O’Shaughnessy, Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy- chief Guest, Hon. Bruce
    Blakeman-Nassau County Executive, Dr. Vinni Jayam-President AAPIQLI, Dr. Jagdish K. Gupta-Chairman Board of Trustees, Dr. Jagat Rawal – Convention Chair and Dr. Raj Jinna-President-Elect.
    VIP’s and Elected Officials.
    Entertainment by Atma Dance Company.

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): AAPIQLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin Queens Long Island) celebrated their 26th Annual Convention at the Crest Hollow Country Club on Dec 17, 2022, at the behest of the President Dr. Vinni Jayam, Convention Chair, Dr. Jagat Rawal and Chairman Board of Trustees, Dr. Jagdish Gupta,

    The ceremony was presided by the Chief Guest, Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy, CEO of Catholic Health Services. Studded with guests of Honor, Dr. Chuck Lucore, CEO of St. Francis Hospital and Hon. Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive.

    The Chair, Dr. Jagat Rawal welcomed the audience of over 550 attendees including Physicians, Entrepreneurs, Community Leaders, Industry Leaders. It was a day when AAPIQLI showcased their activities and accomplishments in the year. The President Dr. Vinni Jayam elaborated them as ‘Three Pillars’ – Educational, Service and Charitable endeavors. The chairman, Dr. Gupta, highlighted the success of AAPIQLI, being the largest chapter of National AAPI and congratulated all the patron members for its success.  The Chief Guest Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy and the Guests of Honor Dr. Chuck Lucore, Hon. Bruce Blakeman delivered their appreciative remarks.

    The day was about honoring some of brightest and most accomplished Physicians in the Greater NY area. The Honorees this year were

    1. Richard Shlofmitz, Chairman of Cardiology at St. Francis Hospital and Service Line Director of Cardiology for the Catholic Health.
    2. Meena Bansal, Professor of Medicine at Icahn School of Medicine and Director of Transplant Hepatology Fellowship and Translational Research in the Division of Liver Diseases at Mount Sinai Health center.
    3. Rohan Ramakrishna, Chief of Neurosurgery at New York-Presbyterian/Brooklyn Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College.
    4. Bhavani Srinivasan, the Lifetime Service Awardee

    The celebration included a scintillating dance performance by the AATMA Group and music by Dr. Biba Singh. The program was masterfully MCed by Dr. Sunil Mehra.

    We would like to appreciate the efforts of the team including – Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Chair BOT, Dr. Abhay Malhotra, Immediate Past President, Dr. Devendra Shrivastava, Co-Chair, Dr. Venu Palla, Co-Chair, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Media Chair etc.

  • Veteran Community leader Gobind Munjal is inaugurated as President of The Association of Indians in America

    Veteran Community leader Gobind Munjal is inaugurated as President of The Association of Indians in America

    National Executive Committee takes oath of office at a virtual ceremony

    AIA Officers take oath of office
    Clockwise: AIA National President Gobind Munjal, Dr. UrmileshArya , the outgoing President, Dr. Samin Sharma, Congressman Tom Suozzi
    Clockwise: Dr. Sameen Sharma, Satish Khanna, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Nilima Madan, Asmita Bhatia, Mukesh Modi

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): Gobind Munjal, the newly elected National President of The Association of Indians in America (AIA), was sworn-in along with his National Executive Committeein an exciting Inauguration ceremony arranged virtually on Sunday February 6,2022.

    The occasion was graced by the chief guest Honorable Consul General Randhir Jaiswal, Hon.Congressman Tom Suozzi, and Hon.New York Senator Kevin Thomas.The Inauguration and Oath ceremony was attended by well over one hundredattendeesand their families. This included AIA founding members, board of Trustees, AIA National Past Presidents, AIA current and past chapter Presidents, community leaders, AIA members, friends, and all the media partners.

    Bharat Ratna legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar was given homage by observing a moment of silence. It was followed by melodious singing of American and Indian National Anthem by Gita Setia. The Chairman Board of Trustees,Dr Samin Sharma initiated the program and spoke briefly about AIA. Chief Guest Hon. Consul General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal. in his opening Remarks, praised AIA for all that it has done for the community during its 55 years of history and commended the organization for sending oxygen concentrators to India in 2021. He also pledged to work with AIA for outreach to the community.

    National President Gobind Munjal was sworn-in by Honorable Congressman Tom Suozzi, who also administered the oath to Vice Presidents Uma Swaminathan(NJ), Nilima Madan(NY), Santosh Pandey (IL), Uma Eniasivam (Fl), Secretary Gunjan Rastogi (NY) and Treasurer Dr. Bal Gilja (NY). Honorable NYS Senator Kevin Thomas had the honors for swearing-in the members at large from all the states, namely Anil Sharma (IL),Aridaman Jain (NJ),Ashish Sen (IL),Dr. Bharti Palkhiwala (NJ),Dr Binod K. Verma (NY),Gobind Bhatija (NY), Manoranjan Mishra (IL),Maya Kirpalani (FL), Neelam Modi (NY),OM Dhirgra (IL), Pradeep Tandon (NY), Prem Mehrotra (IL), Rajeev Chaudhary(NY)Ram Khanna (NY), Santosh Khera (NY),Sharmistha Dutta (FL),Shashi Malik (NY),Sujata Seth (NY),Sushma Kotahwala (NY),Usha Bansal (NY).

    In his speech, National President Munjal welcomed everyone and shareda glimpse of his vision.

    In pursuing the AIA’s moto of “Indian Heritage and American Commitment”, he emphasized that:

    “We are here to serve the community needs. As we continue to direct our help to the people in India, our homeland, we should equally remain committed to the community right here in the United States, our adopted homeland. We hope to work towards increasing that commitment.

    As the demographic profile of the Indian American Community has changed in past 5 decades since the founding of AIA, so are their needs. We remain committed to understanding the changing requirements of the community, and then will develop Programs to help both – the Youth and the Elderly. NEC pledges support to all the Chapter Presidents and its members, so they all can build and expand on these programs across the nation. This way together, we can make the next two years most productive”.

    A plaque was presented to the outgoing National President Dr. Urmilesh Arya for her splendid service and all the contributions to the organization and the community.All AIA leadership extended their good wishes and support. The program concluded with a traditional vote of thanks by the secretary.The program on Zoom was very well planned and executed and was appreciated by all.It was mentioned that as soon as the covid conditions improve,an in-person event will be planned in the near future.

    The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is the oldest not-for-profit organization of Asian Indians in America founded on August 20, 1967. It is the grassroots national organization of Asian immigrants in United States. With chapters and membership spread across the United States of America, AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage and American Commitment.

  • Harish Thakkar re-elected AIA-NY President for the second term

    Harish Thakkar re-elected AIA-NY President for the second term

    NEW YORK (TIP): The Associations of Indians In America (AIA) NY, the oldest and largest association of Asian Indians in America unanimously elected its new president Harish Thakkar and the new board for the year 2021-2022.

    President Elect, Harish Thakkar will spearhead the team for the year 2021-2022 with the help of Executive Vice Presidents Dr. Satish Anand, Dr. Bal Gilja, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Usha Kapoor, Secretary Beena Kothari and Treasurer Dr. Pushpa Shah – Members at Large Dipika Modi, Divya Shah, Gitanjali Anand, Nishant Garg, Beenu Sabharwal, Rene Mehra, Joyti Gupta, Vimal Goyal, Govind Bhatija, Swati Vaishnav and Sunny Thakkar

    Advisor –Dr. Shahi Shah, Asmita Bhatia, Rohit Vyas and Sushma Kotahwala.

    Last year 2020, under the leadership of AIA – NY President, Harish Thakkar, AIA did many events for the community.

    AIA NY Chapter 2020 projects were:

    February – AIA NY Chapter family Bowling event

    COVID help community projects.

    June – AIA NY Chapter distributed groceries to needy families.

    July – AIA NY young chapter Desi Next distributed Face Masks to Jamaica hospital.

    July – AIA NY Chapter distributed meals to Westchester Hospitals & White Plains Hospital.

    October 5th, AIA NY chapter celebrated 33rd Diwali on the Cruise in NYC on East Hudson river.

    November-3rd, AIA NY Chapter, Diwali celebrations Zoom event. special guest on zoom event Congresswoman Grace Meng & Deputy Consul General of India, Shatrughna Sinha.

    November 6th Friday – AIA NY Chapter did Diya lighting at Times Square in NYC with limited 25 people. Chief guest of Diya lighting, Consul General of India, Randhir Jaiswal, NY state Senator, John Liu, deputy consul General Shatrughna Sinha& Manhattan Borough President Gail Brewer. This event was covered by all Indian media outlets.

    The incoming President Harish Thakkar plans to take the organization to new heights with events planned for Celebrating India’s Cultural events like Holi and Diwali. This year AIA NY will also host Community help events whenever needed, Youth Basketball Camp, Hindi Summer Camp, Food Drive and Toys of Kids during the holiday season. With the help of the Executive team and Advisory Board Members, AIA NY plans to take on projects like Job Fair, Entrepreneurship camps and Youth Leadership Development Skill Camps.