GOPIO News Bulletin APRIL 2026

GOPIO NEWS BULLETIN

A Publication of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)

Published Monthly

President Prakash Shah

Editor-in-Chief

Umesh Chandra OAM

Senior Editorial Advisor

Thomas Abraham

Editorial Assistant

Nami Kaur

Editor's Note

Welcome to the April issue of the GOPIO International News Bulletin. We regret that the release date is later than planned; despite our best efforts, we did not receive all submissions as requested and had to follow up with many contributors multiple times. Unfortunately, we are still missing some News Articles. To ensure timely publication, please remember that submissions should be in Word format with photos attached via email. We do not have the capacity to extract articles from WhatsApp messages, so please share content in the requested format.

As we highlight the goodwill and achievements across our chapters, it is important that we include articles from all chapters in the bulletin. If an article is not received, we cannot include it. Let us all continue to share stories of impact and progress, so that the entire GOPIO family benefits from a comprehensive and engaging publication.

From the Editor:

GOPIO News Bulletin is a monthly newsletter published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by GOPIO News Bulletin, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in GOPIO News Bulletin are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by GOPIO News Bulletin. GOPIO News Bulletin will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned. If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: ceo@chantex.com.au

Special congratulations to the Sydney Northwest chapter on a successful AGM and the election of the new officials. We know that AGMs for many chapters are still pending. The Executive Council requests all chapters to conduct their AGMs promptly and to inform us of the new officials along with their contact details, so that our communications, invoicing, and other important correspondence reach the correct officials.

A gentle reminder that some chapters may not have updated their contact lists, resulting in communications going to past committees. Please review and update your chapter details to ensure seamless coordination.

We remain hopeful that the Best of Bharat and Trade Show in Mauritius will be a resounding success and elevate GOPIO International's profile. Planning for the GOPIO International Convention in Mumbai is underway, and Early Bird registration is now open. Please take advantage of the opportunity to book and register early.

20 MAY 2026

15 MAY 2026

Email: ceo@chantex.com.au

Our monthly webinars are progressing well. I would like to extend my thanks to the technical team, speakers, moderators, and participants from across the globe for their continued engagement and contribution.

We are living in challenging times. Our Indian diaspora has faced rising incidents of racism worldwide. GOPIO International, through Chairperson Thomas Abraham and President Prakash Shah, has taken firm steps and issued public statements, including communication with the United States President. We remain hopeful that common sense and the message Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—“the world is one family”—will prevail.

Finally, a reminder of the submission deadline and the required format: submissions must be in Word format with accompanying photos attached. Let us work together to ensure timely, complete, and highquality content for the next issue.

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration. Until next month, Happy Reading!

—Umesh Chandra OAM, Editor in Chief GOPIO

International Editorial Team

GOPIO Formally Protests White House Endorsement of Derogatory Rhetoric

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) has issued a high-level formal protest to the White House following the administration’s endorsement of remarks that disparage Asian nations and challenge the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship. Representing a community that contributes an estimated $300 billion annually in federal taxes, GOPIO leadership warned that such rhetoric threatens the “talent shift” necessary for U.S. global competitiveness and undermines the “Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership” recently reaffirmed between Washington and New Delhi. The organization is calling for a formal retraction and a return to fact-based dialogue regarding the economic and social contributions of immigrant communities.

NEW YORK, NY — The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) submitted a formal letter of protest to the White House on Monday, April 27, 2026, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the administration and one of the nation’s most economically influential diaspora groups. The letter, sent by GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham and President Prakash Shah, directly addresses the White House’s recent promotion of rhetoric by media personality Michael Savage, which characterized India and China as “hellholes” and questioned the loyalty and legal standing of Asian Americans.

The controversy stems from an April 23 endorsement by the White House of a podcast transcript in which Savage claimed that “there’s almost no loyalty to this country amongst the immigrant

class” and advocated for the termination of birthright citizenship. For the members of GOPIO, the rhetoric is seen not merely as political discourse but as a strategic threat to the stability of the millions of Indian Americans

who comprise roughly 1.5% of the U.S. population yet wield outsized economic influence.

Economic Stakes and the “Talent Shift”

In their communication, Dr. Abraham and Mr. Shah highlighted a widening gap between the administration’s rhetoric and the documented economic reality of the Indian American community. Data from early 2026 indicates that Indian Americans maintain a median household income exceeding $166,000—the highest of any ethnic group in the United States—and contribute between 5% and 6% of all federal tax revenue.

“This rhetoric is a direct affront to the dignity of millions of citizens and risks undermining both the economic strength and strategic interests of the United States,” the leaders stated in the joint letter.

Dr. Abraham expressed specific concern regarding a “talent shift,” a phenomenon where highly skilled professionals in STEM, healthcare, and artificial intelligence relocate to more stable political environments. With over 75% of Indian Americans holding at least a bachelor’s degree and 40% possessing postgraduate qualifications, the organization argues that casting doubt on the legitimacy of their citizenship could trigger a “brain drain” to Canada, Europe, or back to

a rapidly developing India.

Constitutional Conflict and the 14th Amendment

The timing of the White House endorsement is particularly sensitive as the U.S. Supreme Court deliberates on Barbara v. Trump, a case centered on an executive order attempting to restrict the 14th Amendment. The “loyalty” trope and the disparagement of legal birthright citizenship mentioned in the Savage podcast mirror the arguments currently being tested in the high court.

GOPIO’s letter reaffirmed that questioning birthright citizenship challenges a foundational principle of American social cohesion. Legal experts note that since its passage 160 years ago, the 14th Amendment has served as the bedrock for the American promise. “Language that diminishes these communities or suggests they are anything less than full citizens creates a permanent underclass of American families,” the letter noted, echoing concerns from legal advocacy groups like the ACLU that have filed injunctions against recent executive actions.

Global Strategic Implications

The protest also underscores a potential diplomatic rift. President Shah pointed to the global economic landscape, noting that when measured by Purchasing Power Parity

(PPP), the economies of China and India are the first and third largest in the world, respectively. In 2026, China’s PPP-adjusted GDP stands at approximately $43.5 trillion, while India’s has surged toward $19.1 trillion.

The disparagement of these nations occurs just two months after the United States and India announced a landmark trade deal on February 2, 2026, which saw the U.S. slash tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%. The deal, worth an estimated $500 billion in bilateral commitments, was intended to solidify a “Major Defense Partnership.”

“These nations are key global actors,” Shah emphasized. “Language that diminishes them undermines the mutual respect necessary for constructive international engagement.”

A Call for Fact-Based Dialogue

The letter concluded with a demand for the White House to retract its endorsement of the derogatory remarks and issue a reaffirmation of the values of inclusion and equal opportunity. GOPIO argued that the future strength of the United States lies in its ability to attract and empower global talent, a strength they believe is being compromised for short-term political signaling.

While the White House has not yet issued an official

response to the GOPIO letter, the organization’s leaders remained firm. They noted that the Indian American community, which has founded thousands of startups in sectors like cybersecurity and clean energy, remains committed to the nation’s success but expects a level of discourse that reflects their multibillion dollar contribution to the American treasury.

“The future strength of the United States lies in its

ability to attract, retain, and empower talent from around the world,” the letter concluded. “That strength should not be compromised by rhetoric that alienates those who contribute so significantly to its prosperity.”

About GOPIO

Founded in 1989, GOPIO is a non-partisan, not-forprofit, secular organization with individual life members and chapter delegates from over 100 chapters in 36

countries. GOPIO promotes engagement, cooperation, and communication between the global Indian diaspora and local communities, fostering networks, partnerships, and civic participation worldwide.

GOPIO is a registered trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Media Contact: Sid Jain, General Secretary, GOPIO, Tel: 201-889-8888

GOPIO Calls for Retraction of White House Remarks Targeting Asian American Communities; Urges

Reaffirmation of Inclusion and Talent-Based Immigration

Washington, DC (April 25, 2026)

— The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) issued a formal protest to President Donald Trump on April 25, 2026, demanding a retraction of remarks attributed to the White House on April 23, 2026. In a letter signed by GOPIO’s leadership, the organisation condemned the rhetoric that characterised India and China in derogatory terms and questioned the legitimacy of legal and birthright citizenship for Asian Americans.

The letter, dated April 25, 2026, is addressed “To His Excellency President Donald Trump” at The White House

and represents GOPIO’s view as a federation with “over 100 chapters across 35 countries,” spanning educators, engineers, scientists, IT and healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and taxpayers.

Key points highlighted by GOPIO in the letter include: Economic impact: The organisation argues that “the promotion of remarks attributed to [the White House] … represents more than a political disagreement. It is a direct affront to the dignity of millions of citizens and risks undermining both the economic strength and strategic interests of the United States.” It notes that Indian Americans

have among the highest levels of educational attainment and median household income, and that both Indian and Chinese Americans contribute significantly to essential sectors such as technology, healthcare, academia, and entrepreneurship.

Talent and immigration: GOPIO warns that messages casting doubt on the security of legal residency and birthright citizenship could accelerate a “talent shift,” prompting highly skilled professionals to reconsider where they build their lives and careers. The letter asserts that such rhetoric could jeopardise the United States’ standing as a premier destination for global talent.

Global context: The letter reminds readers that, under purchasing power parity, China and India are among the world’s largest economies and refers to them as key global actors whose standing should be treated with mutual respect in international engagement.

Strategic partnership: The letter asserts that India is a critical strategic partner for the United States and that dismissive rhetoric could complicate bilateral relations and strategic alignments.

Foundational principle: The letter contends that questioning birthright citizenship strikes at a foundational American principle, potentially eroding social cohesion and

confidence in long-standing legal norms.

The letter closes with a formal call for:

A retraction of the endorsement of such remarks

A reaffirmation of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunity

A broader public dialogue grounded in facts, reflecting the contributions of immigrant communities to the nation’s success

A future strength rooted in attracting, retaining, and empowering global talent

Signatories and leadership, as listed in the letter, include: Executive Council: Chairman Thomas Abraham; President Prakash Shah; Executive Vice President Umesh Chandra; Vice

President Kewal Kanda; Global Ambassador J. Nami Kaur; General Secretary Siddharth (Sid) Jain; Associate Secretary Sunil Robert Vuppala; Treasurer Jigar Shah International Coordinators for Africa, South Asia, North America, and Oceania

A Board of Advisors featuring prominent names and affiliations in politics, law, medicine, and business

In closing, the letter states: “The future strength of the United States lies in its ability to attract, retain, and empower talent from around the world. That strength should not be compromised by rhetoric that alienates those who contribute so significantly to its prosperity.”

GOPIO International Condemns the Act of Violence and Terrorism in the United States

In a statement issued on behalf of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), the organisation condemned violence and terrorism directed at the United States and its elected officials. The message comes amid concerns following a recent incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

The statement said GOPIO is relieved that the individual responsible for the incident was apprehended promptly and expressed confidence that

justice would be carried out in accordance with the law.

“Such acts have no place in a democratic society and must be firmly rejected by all,” the letter asserted.

GOPIO emphasised its commitment to the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and peaceful civic engagement. The organisation noted that violence or intimidation against public leaders threatens individual safety and undermines the institutions that uphold democratic governance.

The letter also conveyed best wishes to the U.S. president, expressing hope that the incident would not deter the president from fulfilling his duties or advancing the country’s interests. It closed with wishes for the president’s safety and for continued stability and prosperity in the United States.

Respectfully signed by Dr Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International. Email: gopio@optonline. net

GOPIO International Announces VIKSANA 2026: Diaspora Connecting Technology, Capital, Mentors, and Makers

Mumbai Convention to Convene December 18–20, 2026 at Garware Club, Mumbai

Mumbai, India – April 15, 2026 – GOPIO International (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin) today announced its 37th Anniversary Convention, VIKSANA 2026: Diaspora Connecting Technology, Capital, Mentors, and Makers. The convention will bring together GOPIO members and members of the Indian diaspora from around the world for three days of insight, collaboration, and celebration of entrepreneurial and technological innovation. The event will be hosted in Mumbai from December 18–20, 2026, at the Garware Club, a premier venue that will serve as a dynamic hub for networking, knowledge exchange, and relationship building across borders.

Event Overview and Objectives

VIKSANA 2026 is designed to harness the collective expertise and entrepreneurial energy of the global Indian diaspora. Key objectives include: Strengthening transnational ties among

professionals, startups, investors, educators, and policymakers.

Showcasing emerging technologies and breakthrough startups led by diaspora innovators.

Providing structured mentoring sessions, investor matchmaking, and leadership development opportunities.

Fostering collaboration between the diaspora and home-country ecosystems to accelerate job creation, social impact, and knowledge transfer.

Celebrating GOPIO’s 37 years of service, community leadership, and the ongoing mission to empower people of Indian origin worldwide.

Program Tracks

The convention will feature two confirmed tracks with the potential addition of a third track based on participant registrations:

Track 1: The Diaspora Role in Shaping Future Technologies

Focus areas: AI, machine learning, quantum computing, cybersecurity, biotech, green tech, fintech, and hardware innovation. Highlights: Keynote

sessions from technology leaders, expert-led panels, and case studies highlighting diaspora-led R&D and product development.

Track 2: Start-up Ecosystem

Focus areas: Fundraising strategies, venture capital access, go-to-market plans, scaling operations, crossborder partnerships, and entrepreneurship education.

Highlights: Start-up showcases, founder-centric roundtables, investor pitches, and mentorship clinics.

Potential Track 3: Diaspora Policy, Philanthropy, and Social Impact (to be added if registrations meet thresholds)

Focus areas: Diaspora engagement with public policy, philanthropy best practices, and scalable social impact initiatives.

Registration and Fees: Registration fee: $200 per person

Twin-sharing accommodation option: GOPIO has secured a limited block of rooms at the convention venue and nearby properties. To qualify

for twin-sharing rates, both guests must register together and pay the full convention fee of $400.

Payments: All payments are non-refundable and nonchangeable.

Registration links and flyer: See attached materials for the convention and room booking links.

Venue and Accommodation

Garware Club, Mumbai (main convention venue)

Accommodation options (twin-sharing):

Garware Club: Threenight package – Friday, December 18 to Monday, December 21 – $250

Malabar Hill Club: Twonight package – Friday, December 18 to Sunday, December 20 – $250

Additional logistics: GOPIO has arranged a limited number of rooms to accommodate international attendees. It is recommended to book early due to demand, especially during the peak travel season in Mumbai.

Registration and Information Contacts

GOPIO Mumbai Convention Coordinator: Prakash Shah, President, GOPIO International

Email: secretary@gopio. net; Phone: +1 (908) 2675021

Secondary contact: Sid Jain, GOPIO General Secretary (via the same email)

Early Bird and Sponsorship Opportunities

We are actively exploring early-bird registration incentives and sponsorship packages for corporate

partners, academic institutions, and nonprofits. Partners will receive branding visibility, opportunities to engage with speakers, and dedicated networking sessions with attendees.

Interested organisations are encouraged to contact the GOPIO Secretariat at the email above for partnership details and availability.

Program Highlights and Speakers

Delegates can expect keynote addresses from industry leaders, policy makers, and seasoned diaspora entrepreneurs. Panels on technology trends, capital access, mentorship models, and cross-border collaboration. Startup showcase and mentor clinics are designed to facilitate meaningful connections between founders and potential investors.

Networking receptions and cultural programs that celebrate the diversity and contributions of the Indian diaspora.

Community Impact and Legacy

GOPIO International’s mission centres on empowering the global Indian diaspora through cultural preservation, education, professional networking, and community service. VIKSANA 2026 reflects this mission by creating a platform where diasporic talents can collaborate with technology

innovators, financial capital, and experienced mentors to build scalable ventures that benefit communities worldwide. The convention also serves as a forum for youth engagement, entrepreneurship education, and identifying opportunities to contribute positively to participants' home regions.

Media Opportunities

Press briefings and interview opportunities with GOPIO leadership and select speakers

Access to exclusive, behind-the-scenes sessions with startup founders and mentors

Photo opportunities and event b-roll to support postevent coverage

A dedicated media liaison will be available during the event for on-site facilitation

Local Logistics and Travel Tips

Visa and travel: Attendees are advised to check visa requirements for visiting India and plan travel well in advance. We can provide PRfriendly logistical guidance and assist with media accommodations on request.

Health and safety: The organisers will adhere to applicable health and safety guidelines for large events. Updates will be provided as the event approaches.

Local attractions: Mumbai offers cultural experiences, dining, and sightseeing that can complement the convention schedule for international guests.

GOPIO President: “VIKSANA 2026 is a CONTD. ON PG 22

GOPIO Congratulates and Supports FICQ: A Milestone Moment for the Community as House of India Foundation Lays Cornerstone

Ipswich, Australia — In a landmark ceremony, the Foundation Laying Ceremony for the House of India marked a milestone moment for Ipswich’s multicultural community. Leaders and supporters gathered to celebrate what organisers described as a turning point in fostering cultural exchange, connection, and celebration among diverse residents. The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin

(GOPIO) extended its congratulations and expressed full support for the initiative by FICQ. In a statement, GOPIO said the House of India project “represents a unifying space where culture, heritage, and community come together to enrich the broader Australian narrative.”

The ceremony signalled the beginning of a broader vision to provide a dedicated space for cultural events, educational programming, and community gatherings. Organisers emphasised that the project was not merely about constructing a building, but about creating a home for culture, connection, and celebration within Ipswich’s multicultural landscape.

A federal grant announcement was highlighted as a significant step forward in turning the vision into reality. Attendees acknowledged the Federal Government’s commitment,

along with grateful thanks to the Australian Government, Ipswich City Council, and Springfield City Group for their roles in advancing the project.

“The House of India will be more than bricks and mortar,” one organiser said. “It will be a place where families, students, artists, and visitors come together to learn, share, and celebrate

the rich tapestry of cultures that define our community.”

Local officials lauded the collaboration among federal and local governments and community organisations, noting that such partnerships are essential to sustaining vibrant, inclusive communities. The ceremony included remarks from council representatives and members of the Springfield

City Group, who underscored the importance of supporting initiatives that bolster cultural heritage and civic engagement.

As planners move forward with construction and programming, supporters urged all members of the community to participate, contribute, and help build a space that serves as a beacon of culture, connection, and celebration for years to come.

About GOPIO: The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin is an international network dedicated to promoting the well-being and unity of people of Indian origin and allied communities, with a focus on philanthropy, education, and cross-cultural collaboration.

GOPIO Attends Premier’s Multicultural Night at Queensland Parliament House

Ipswich, Australia — In a landmark ceremony, the Foundation Laying Ceremony for the House of India marked a milestone moment for Ipswich’s multicultural community. Leaders and supporters gathered to celebrate what organisers described as a turning point in fostering cultural exchange, connection, and celebration among diverse residents.

The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) extended its congratulations and expressed full support for the initiative by FICQ. In a statement, GOPIO said the House of India project

“represents a unifying space where culture, heritage, and community come together to enrich the broader Australian narrative.”

The ceremony signalled the beginning of a broader vision to provide a dedicated

space for cultural events, educational programming, and community gatherings. Organisers emphasised that the project was not merely about constructing a building, but about creating a home for culture, connection, and

celebration within Ipswich’s multicultural landscape.

A federal grant announcement was highlighted as a significant step forward in turning the vision into reality. Attendees acknowledged the Federal Government’s commitment,

GOPIO-Dallas Chapter Inaugurated with Community and Political Leaders in Attendance

DALLAS,

TX — The Global Organization for People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) officially launched its Dallas Chapter during a prestigious ceremony at Bhartiya Nivas in Dallas, Texas. The event brought together a broad crosssection of the Indian diaspora and marked a significant milestone in strengthening community advocacy and representation across North Texas. It served as a high-profile gathering of diplomatic representatives, community leaders, and

professionals united by a shared vision for the region’s rapidly growing Indian-origin population.

The ceremony reached a defining moment with a traditional lamp-lighting, symbolizing unity and new beginnings. The inauguration was led by Consul General of India in Houston, D.C. Manjunath, alongside GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham and GOPIO

International President Prakash Shah. They were joined by local leadership,

including Chapter President Muthu Mudaliar, Executive Vice President Vinoth Mani, and Joint Treasurer Bharat Bhakta.

The program started with rendering of the National Anthem of the USA and India. After the lighting ceremony, Masti Academy Dance Group presented a Bollywood dance.

Distinguished Guests and Keynote Address

Consul General D.C. Manjunath attended as Chief Guest and delivered

the keynote address. He commended GOPIO’s 36year legacy and emphasized that the Dallas Chapter would serve as a vital bridge connecting local communities with global initiatives. He underscored the important role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening Indo–U.S. relations and highlighted GOPIO’s continued commitment to safeguarding the interests of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) worldwide.

Dr. Thomas Abraham, GOPIO Founder and Chairman, reflected on the organization’s historic achievements and global impact. GOPIO International President Prakash Shah also addressed attendees, reinforcing the organization’s mission and future direction. Local leaders, including Chapter President Muthu Mudaliar and Joint Treasurer Bharat Bhakta, spoke about the importance of

establishing a Dallas chapter and encouraged community members to actively participate.

Indian American political leaders, including Frisco Councilman Burt Thakur and local assembly candidate Sanjay Narayan, delivered felicitation remarks to mark the occasion. Houston Community leader Sam Kannappan was honored in recognition of his contributions.

Cultural and Community Highlights

The program was emceed by Shabnam Modgil and featured a blend of ceremonial and cultural elements that reflected the vibrancy of the Indian diaspora:

• A traditional lamplighting ceremony involving dignitaries, founding members, and Dallas chapter leadership

• Energetic cultural

performances choreographed by Masti Academy, showcasing the richness of Indian heritage

• Strong participation from leaders representing prominent Indian community organizations across the region

A Vision for Dallas

The establishment of the GOPIO Dallas Chapter comes in response to the rapid growth of the Indian population in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, as noted in recent Malayalam media reports. The chapter aims to provide a unified platform for professional networking, social advocacy, and cultural preservation while fostering greater civic engagement within the community.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Executive Vice President Vinoth Mani, followed by a networking session over light refreshments.

Post-Launch Engagement

Following the inauguration, the newly formed chapter hosted a luncheon meeting on March 30, 2026, bringing together diaspora small and medium business owners and professional practitioners. The session explored the potential establishment of a Dallas Chapter of the GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) at A2B Indian Vegetarian Restaurant.

The meeting was addressed by Dr. Thomas Abraham and Chapter President

Muthu Mudaliar, and moderated by Executive Vice President Vinoth Mani. A presentation was followed by an interactive questionand-answer session with active audience participation. GCCI aims to create a robust network connecting diaspora businesses locally, nationally, and globally.

About GOPIO-DallasTX - Founded to advance the interests and global engagement of people of Indian origin, GOPIO is a non-profit, non-partisan, and secular organization. GOPIO-

Dallas-TX Chapter plans to organize civic, cultural, educational, and youthfocused programs; facilitating dialogue with policymakers and thought leaders; and collaborating with partner organizations to strengthen community engagement and public service.

For media inquiries: GOPIO-Dallas, Tel: 469823-8898, info@gopiodallas-tx.org | Website: info@gopio-dallas-tx.org **

GOPIO logo is a trademark registered under the US Patent and Trademark Office.

GOPIO International to Host Regional Convention at Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre

New Delhi — GOPIO

International and regional partners

announce a three-day gathering at the Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre in Pallie, Mauritius. The event, organized by GOPIO’s local and regional chapters, will bring together members of the Indian-origin diaspora, technology innovators, business leaders, educators, and mentors for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration opportunities. The convention underscores GOPIO’s ongoing commitment to fostering cross-border ties that drive innovation, economic development, and social impact across communities.

Attendees can look forward to a program designed to connect diaspora talent with the resources of technology, capital, and mentorship needed to advance new ventures and scale existing ones. Program highlights will include keynote talks from leaders in technology and business, panel discussions that explore current and future tech trends, and a dedicated startup showcase where founders can present their ideas to potential

investors and mentors.

In addition, mentorship clinics will provide one-onone guidance to early-stage ventures, helping participants refine business models, goto-market strategies, and growth plans. The event will also feature structured networking sessions and

cultural programs that celebrate the diversity and contributions of the Indian diaspora, fostering connections that extend beyond the conference days.

GOPIO International describes itself as a global nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering

people of Indian origin through cultural preservation, education, professional networking, and community service. The Mauritius regional event is designed to strengthen cross-border collaboration that benefits diaspora communities as well as their home regions, with attendees expected to include diaspora professionals, startup founders, investors, academics, and community leaders. The convention’s program will address future technologies, startup ecosystems, and social impact initiatives, reflecting GOPIO’s

broad mission of fostering innovation and inclusive growth across borders.

In addition to the substantive program, organizers will provide practical travel and logistics notes, including visa guidance and accommodation details for attendees. Plans also call for sponsor and partner participation, with opportunities for brand visibility, speaker engagement, and dedicated networking time. Local organizers emphasize the importance of early attendance to secure accommodation and to take

full advantage of the threeday agenda.

For media and inquiries, the public-facing contact is Dhiraj Ahuja, reachable by email at d.ahujagopio@ gmail.com and by phone at +91 97171 12272. To ensure broader regional coordination, GOPIO Delhi will also be available as a media liaison, with additional information available on its website at https://gopiodelhi. org/. This arrangement provides journalists with multiple avenues for timing interviews, arranging onsite access, and obtaining background materials.

GOPIO International Announces VIKSANA 2026: Diaspora Connecting Technology, Capital, Mentors, and Makers

CONTD. FROM PG 10

testament to the enduring spirit of the Indian diaspora—connecting our innovators, mentors, and investors to accelerate meaningful impact across borders.”

Keynote Speaker (to be confirmed): “The diaspora has been a powerful catalyst for technological advancement and inclusive growth. This convention will amplify those forces.”

Boilerplate

GOPIO International (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin) is a global, non-profit, non-political organisation dedicated to empowering the Indian diaspora through cultural preservation, education, professional

networking, and community service. GOPIO organises annual conventions, fosters cross-border collaboration, and supports initiatives that benefit diaspora communities and their home countries.

About the Host City

Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is a vibrant hub for technology, finance, and culture. The city offers a dynamic ecosystem for startups, a diverse business community, and ample opportunities for international delegates to engage with India’s growing innovation landscape.

Call to Action

Members of the GOPIO diaspora and prospective attendees are encouraged

to reserve their spots early, take advantage of the twinsharing accommodations, and participate in what promises to be a landmark gathering of global Indian origin leadership and entrepreneurship. For registration, accommodation, and program updates, please refer to the attached flyer and contact the GOPIO Secretariat at secretary@gopio.net.

The convention is expected to attract delegates from GOPIO chapters worldwide, including business leaders, technology innovators, investors, educators, and community advocates. Program details, speaker lineups, and sponsorship opportunities will be updated on the official GOPIO site and through partner channels as arrangements progress.

GOPIO Sydney North West Chapter Elects New Executive Committee at AGM

Sydney, Australia – The GOPIO Sydney North West chapter held its Annual General Meeting on 12 April 2026, marking the successful election of the chapter’s new Executive Committee. The newly elected leaders are:

- Harmohan Walia –President

- Paramjit Multani – Vice President

- Balkar Kang – Treasurer

- Neeru Singh – Secretary

- Baljit Pelia – Assistant Secretary

The AGM brought together

chapter members to review past activities, discuss strategic goals for the coming year, and elect a new leadership team to drive GOPIO’s mission of fostering unity, philanthropy, and cultural engagement within the local Indian diaspora.

GOPIO Sydney North West Chapter Team

GOPIO-LA Celebrated Vaisakhi

Orange, CA — GOPIO-LA marked India’s largest spring festival, Vaisakhi, on April 17, 2026, bringing together representation from multiple Indian states for a spirited celebration that drew more than 270 attendees. Organisers credited the event as a resounding success, thanking all members for their support of a “Dhamakedar” Vaisakhi.

Kewal Kanda, vice president of GOPIO International, addressed the gathering on GOPIO’s global footprint, noting chapters in 51 countries and outlining the organisation’s mission, vision, and broader impact on the Indian diaspora. He also shared details about an upcoming annual event in Mumbai in December and introduced Baljinder

Tahim, the current GOPIOLA president, while praising his leadership. Yatri Shukla, GOPIO-LA’s secretary, directed the program and kept the audience engaged throughout.

The celebration opened with spiritual singing performed by Sandeep Singh and his two young sons, setting a reverent tone for the Vaisakhi proceedings. Jimmy Singh explained the festival’s significance, meaning, and cultural importance. The stage was energised by performances from Got Bhangra Academy, featuring children of various ages, while Punjabi folk dancers delivered electrifying routines. Vocalists Gagandeep Siddhu and Priya Kumar delivered a diverse lineup of upbeat songs that encouraged audience participation.

Sponsors played a crucial

role in the evening’s success, with a scrumptious array of foods including traditional Punjabi sweets. Vendors selling jewelry and clothing provided opportunities for gift-giving and selfindulgence. The ambience was enhanced by Punjab’s hallmark music—dhol,

bhangra, boliyan, and gidda performed by women— evoking memories of Vaisakhi celebrations from home for many attendees.

Past GOPIO-LA presidents and chairpersons, along with generous sponsors, were honoured with plaques. The event showcased the

leadership of the Executive Committee, which included President Baljinder Tahim, Vice President Aparna Hande, Treasurer Meeta Gupta, Secretary Yatri Shukla, Joint Secretary Priya Kumar Islam, and a team of volunteers.

Looking ahead, GOPIOLA announced a slate of upcoming activities, including a Mother’s Day picnic, a Father’s Day karaoke event, International Yoga Day, a beach cleanup, and participation in the USA’s 250th-anniversary Independence Day celebrations, in addition to continuing its monthly Health and Fitness Day programs.

Other GOPIO-LA Initiatives and Activities: Beyond Vaisakhi, GOPIO-LA has continued to engage the local community and foster dialogue with the Office of the Indian Consulate in Los Angeles. On January 23, 2026, Republic Day was celebrated at Chapman University with a flag salute, led by CGI-LA’s Dr. K.J. Srinivasa and supported by retired Indian Army officers.

GOPIO-LA also partnered with The Manu Shah and Family Endowed Chair in Innovativeness at Chapman University on an AI Impact Summit, held as a precursor to India’s February summit in Delhi, at the government's request.

Additionally, GOPIO-LA collaborated with the Red Cross to organise blood donation drives twice yearly. The March drive saw 27 participants donate blood, surpassing organiser

expectations and highlighting the community’s generosity, though the response required turnout limitations due to staffing and time constraints. Under the current president’s leadership, the organisation introduced a health-focused initiative this year: every second Saturday of the month, the group hosted Health and Fitness for the Indian Diaspora, offering two hours of pranayama and

physical activity guided by Yoga instructors. Participants received healthy treats sponsored by families, and the program remained open to all interested in participating. Yearend prizes were planned for top participation categories, including Perfect Participation, Most Improved, Fitness Influencer, Dedicated Participant, and Volunteer of the Year.

A SERIES OF FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS, WITH FORMAL INVITATION AND OFFICIAL PRESENCE FROM THE GOPIO INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

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