Global Organization of People of Indian Origin to hold general body meet in B’luru

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), an International Organization based in U.S.A, declared the commencement of its Annual General Body Meeting and its International Convention on the 2nd and 3rd of June, 2023 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, Bangalore.

Addressing the Press Conference, the President of GOPIO, Mr. Sunny Kulathakal, stated that the mega convention will take place, three years post Covid-19, with in-person participation. GOPIO had recent meetings in Berlin, Germany and in Paris, France from the 19th - 21st January, 2019.

Mr. Sunny Kulathakal reiterated that “GOPIO International was established to advocate the Indian diaspora’s rights and assist them around the globe with issues related to immigration, visa, PIO card, social services, inheritance and legacy; facilitate the return of stranded diaspora travellers back to their home country; provide disaster relief assistance, support for the students, distressed spouses and scores of other issues related to family and property. The convention will be attended by various dignitaries including the chief guest, His Excellency; S. Abdul Nazeer, Governor Justice, Andhra Pradesh, Lord Diljith Rana, Member of the House of Lords, UK and Lord Rami Ranger, Member of the House of Lords, UK. Other important dignitaries include Justice Cyriac Joseph, Lokayukta and former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, Justice Gopala Gowda, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary Ministry of External Affairs and Ambassador T.P. Srinivasan.’’

Mr. Jagdish Lodia, Australia, believes that the new slate of office-bearers will be a breath of fresh air for the organization, dedicated to the aims and causes of GOPIO International. GOPIO General Secretary Mr.George Varghese stated that the Bangalore Chapter would be hosting this meet with it’s hospitality partner, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Bangalore. He ensured that the guests will have a pleasant stay, enjoying the local culture and culinary delights as well as visits to tourist destinations in Karnatak, creating fond memories to be cherished for life. Executive Vice President Ishwer Ramlutchman mentioned that the Bangalore convention would offer a unique opportunity for delegates from abroad to catch up with friends and exchange views on issues affecting the diaspora. Mr. Ishwer Ramlutchman expressed optimism that the deliberations in Bengaluru convention will strengthen GOPIO as it emerges out of the Covid shadow.

The 35 million-strong Indian diaspora spread across the globe, is highly accomplished in various sectors and industries. Some of them heading Billion Dollar MNCs while others hold responsible positions in the local and federal governments of their adopted nations. All of them have invaluable contributions to the foreign exchange of our country.

Mr. Harbachan Singh, GOPIO’s International Coordinator for North America, former UN official held in high esteem, stated that this 34 year old organization holds an impressive list of accomplishments facilitated in collaboration with various Indian Ministries, it’s Embassies, ‘The Consulate General of India’ and many other partners that have benefited the Indian Diaspora greatly and are facilitating the ability to forge more beneficial partnerships.

The agenda of the General Body meeting of GOPIO International includes the review of work of its affiliate organizations, the Global International Chamber of Commerce, the GOPIO Foundation and other GOPIO Councils and Committees. Elaborate discussion panels have also been constituted for this event for expert lecturers in their respective fields to discuss issues of contemporary and international importance. The General Body will endorse the appointment of the new Chairman of GOPIO International and review the report of the Election Commission, Bylaws Review Committee and its constitutional document.

At the conclusion of the event, honors and awards will be given to recognize individuals of exceptional grit and merit in the various fields of human endeavor. An elaborative souvenir magazine will also be released at this event.