GOPIO's Global International Convention at Bengaluru Witnesses Massive Participation
The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin ( GOPIO) held its 34th Biennial Global International Convention at Bengaluru on 2nd & 3rd June 2023. The GOPIO is one of the oldest Indian Diaspora organisations which was established in 1989 in New York. The Indian diaspora comprises of 35 million persons spread over 192 countries of the world, and GOPIO has its Chapters in most of these countries.
The GOPIO Convention had discussions and deliberations over a wide variety of subjects touching the lives of people of Indian origin. The discussions were on subjects like, Economy, Trade and development, Health, International Chambers of Commerce, India’s position in the emerging world, Education, etc.
The Convention was attended by about 400 persons on both days put together, and delegates came from about 10-15 countries, across the world. Large number of delegates were from the Middle-East region, who were very appreciate of India’s foreign policy and good relations which has earned India great respect all over the world. The Convention was also attended by intellectuals, academicians, high level Govt. functionaries, media personnel and technology professionals.
The General Body discussed large number of items on agenda, e.g amendment to byelaws, and other matters pertaining to the functioning of the ever- expanding global body efficiently, with proper and regional representation of all continents and countries. The due elections were also held and Mr.Harbachan Singh of USA was elected as the new President for a term of 2 years, and as per the byelaw the outgoing President Mr.Sunny Kulathakal of Bahrain was endorsedas the new Chairman for the same period. Mr.George Verghese of Kuwait/Bangalore was reappointed as the General Secretary and Mr.Sohan Joshi was reappointed as the Treasurer and Ms.Vandana Jhingan was also appointed as Joint-Treasurer. Mr.Shaji Baby John was appointed as President of the GICC, i.e. GOPIO International Chamber of Commerce. There was a visible show of enthusiasm, appreciation and unity among the new appointees.
The event ended with a valedictory function presided over by His Excellency, S.Abdul Nazeer, Governor of Andhra Pradesh and former Judge of Supreme Court, who lauded the contribution of the GOPIO International and the Diaspora whose remittances annually have crossed 100 Billion. He further said, all top IT Companies in the world are headed by Indians who are doing exceptionally well and are contributing greatly to the growth of the nation. Mr.Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, also praised the tremendous work being done by the Indian diaspora and their keen desire to remain connected with their motherland and display love for it in numerous ways. The Guest of Honour, Justice Gopala Gowda (Retd) said that the GOPIO had done extraordinary work for the betterment of the diaspora, and they should be given every opportunity to remain connected with the motherland. Justice Cyric Joseph, emphasised that the diaspora should remain educated about the constitutional values of the country.
A commommerative plaque was presented to the family of late Dr. J.Alexander, IAS who was the former Chief Secretary and Cabinet Minister of Govt of Karnataka and served as the Patron of GOPIO Bangalore Chapter. GOPIO Excellence Awards was conferred to 15 persons in various fields of excellence.
The General Body also passed a resolution fixing the Next GOPIO International Convention in New-Delhi from 22nd to 24th March 2024.
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